There is an old saying, “You will not miss your water until your well runs dry.” Although most Americans will not be void of water any time soon, in the long-run, we must consider the effect this crisis has on our oxygen. Contrary to popular belief, we do not get all of our necessary oxygen from the plants on land. In fact, if you have ever swam in an ocean or lake you have probably encountered this microscopic organism responsible for the majority of oxygen in our planet.
“Phytoplankton account for half of all photosynthetic activity on Earth. Thus phytoplankton are responsible for much of the oxygen present in the Earth’s atmosphere - half of the total amount produced by all plant life. Their cumulative energy fixation in carbon compounds (primary production) is the basis for the vast majority of oceanic and also many freshwater food webs. Since the 20th century, phytoplankton has declined by roughly 1% yearly, possibly linked to warming oceanic temperatures - as of 2010 this means a decline of 40% relative to 1950.” (wikipedia.org)
Not only are Phytoplankton responsible for providing us with a vast amount of the air we breathe, but also are the foundation for providing oxygen among the oceanic food chain. This also effects the fisherman who have worked for generations providing the world with sea fare in a severe way. Many of these proud workers and their families have been crippled to poverty as a result of tainted product and decrease in amounts of catch. In order to avoid panic, let it be said humanity will not be running out of oxygen any time soon. But, as a human race we should all be aware of what the life long effects of pollution, tourism, and the opportunity cost of using fuel is truly costing the World. In other words, we won’t miss our air until our oxygen runs dry.
Instead of feeling helpless, make an effort to gain understanding of the oil spill crisis in the Gulf of Mexico. Here are seven ways one could contribute: www.TheDailyGreen.com
Tags: Gulf of Mexico, Oil Spill, Oxygen, Phytoplankton