Today, British Columbia joined Washington, Oregon and California in officially forming the International Alliance to Combat Ocean Acidification.

Alliance members will work collaboratively and individually to take actions that combat ocean acidification and address the impact of changing ocean conditions on communities, marine ecosystems and the economy.

“The Pacific Ocean is crucial to our economy, but more than that, it’s a fundamental part of our identity as British Columbians," said Premier Christy Clark. "As a province, we are committed to doing what we can to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, mitigate the effects of climate change, and protect our ocean.”

“As climate leaders, we can achieve more by working together,” added Premier Clark. “I am proud to join the governors of Washington, Oregon and California in inviting other governments to join the alliance – because when jurisdictions both large and small work together on climate leadership, it makes a global impact.”

Alliance members will work to advance five goals:

1. Advance scientific understanding of ocean acidification;
2. Take meaningful actions to reduce causes of acidification;
3. Protect the environment and coastal communities from impacts of a changing ocean;
4. Expand public awareness and understanding of acidification; and
5. Build sustained support for addressing this global problem.

In 2008, British Columbia, Washington, Oregon and California formed the Pacific Coast Collaborative to better address common issues facing the region. Earlier this year, leaders of the four jurisdictions signed the Pacific Coast Climate Leadership Action Plan, where they agreed to increase awareness, understanding, and action on ocean acidification and other climate-related changes in ocean conditions.

Quick Facts:

• Research shows ocean acidification resulting from greenhouse gas emissions has increased by 30% and is expected to double over pre-industrial levels by the end of the 21st century.
• The oceans are the primary protein source for 2.6 billion people, and support $2.5 trillion of economic activity each year.

Learn More:

Learn more about the International Alliance to Combat Ocean Acidification at: www.OAAlliance.org