Hello! I am Shriya, I am in seventh grade and I recently did a final project about ocean acidification and how to help stop it with my science group (Devika, Anushka, and Ryan). I wanted to leave a positive impact on the world, so I created an action plan, along with the rest of my group, to help reduce ocean acidification through putting eggshells in the ocean. While my plan might be unrealistic, it highlights the need for more people to get involved in addressing this critical issue.

We are advocating to reduce ocean acidification  by dumping eggshells into the ocean to increase the pH of the water. We plan to do this by finding public spaces where we can speak (e.x.: events at fundraisers, college campuses) and online sources (social media, e.x.: YouTube). Additionally, we can have educational sessions (described far more thoroughly later) that raise awareness about ocean acidification, its effects on the environment, and what normal citizens can do to help the cause. This will allow companies to see what we stand for, encouraging them to participate in neutralizing the ocean and protecting marine ecosystems.

Ocean acidification is caused by increased CO2 emissions, which are absorbed by our oceans, leading to harmful changes in marine ecosystems. According to NOAA, since the industrial revolution began, ocean acidity has increased by 30%, posing a significant threat to marine life (source: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration). 

Here is the (kind of unrealistic) action plan: <3        

We propose mitigating ocean acidification by introducing crushed eggshells into the ocean to raise the pH of seawater. Our strategy involves engaging with the public through speaking events (e.g., fundraisers, college campuses) and online platforms (e.g., social media, YouTube). Additionally, we will hold educational sessions to raise awareness about ocean acidification, its environmental impact, and actionable steps individuals can take. This initiative aims to attract corporate participation in neutralizing ocean acidity and protecting marine ecosystems.

Ocean acidification results from increased CO2 emissions absorbed by oceans, causing detrimental changes in marine ecosystems. According to NOAA, ocean acidity has risen by 30% since the Industrial Revolution, significantly threatening marine life.

Action Plan
Direct Actions
Shell Deployment: We plan to deploy eggshells, scallop shells, and oyster shells into the ocean, focusing primarily on eggshells due to their superior neutralizing effect. Our experiments showed a pH increase of 2.81 with eggshells compared to 2.11 with oyster and scallop shells. These shells will be placed in biodegradable packages designed to float and disintegrate, releasing the shells gradually and allowing them to disperse and neutralize acidity across a broader area.
Partnerships with Grocery Stores and Egg Farmers: We will collaborate with grocery stores and egg farmers to collect eggshells. Stores will offer discounts to customers who return their eggshells, reducing waste and providing a steady supply for our project. We will also use unsellable eggs from farms, thereby reducing waste and expenses for farmers.
Corporate and Organizational Partnerships: We aim to partner with major egg suppliers like Cal-Maine Foods, and organizations focused on ocean conservation such as Oceana, NOAA, The Ocean Cleanup, and The Nature Conservancy. These collaborations will help gather the necessary resources and extend the reach of our efforts.
Indirect Actions
Educational Campaigns and Fundraising: We will educate the public about ocean health and conduct fundraising events. This approach will help finance our shell collection and deployment efforts while raising awareness about ocean acidification.
Online and Offline Advocacy: Using platforms like social media and YouTube, we will spread our message and encourage public participation. This outreach aims to build a community of supporters who can advocate for reducing ocean acidification.
Why Eggshells?
Eggshells proved most effective in our tests for neutralizing acidic solutions, and the egg industry produces significant waste, with 300 million pounds of eggshells discarded annually in the U.S. By repurposing this waste, we address two issues: ocean acidification and agricultural waste. Our plan to partner with large-scale producers like Cal-Maine Foods leverages existing waste streams, making our initiative both sustainable and practical.

Expected Impact
Our direct actions will locally reduce ocean acidity by distributing shells in a way that promotes gradual, widespread neutralization. This approach prevents localized pH spikes that could harm marine ecosystems. Over time, the neutralizing effect will disperse through the ocean's natural currents, contributing to a more balanced pH globally.

The indirect actions aim to sustain and expand our efforts by educating the public and securing ongoing financial and logistical support. By working with established conservation organizations, we amplify our impact and integrate our efforts into broader ocean health initiatives.

Conclusion
This multi-faceted plan addresses ocean acidification through practical, science-based actions and public engagement. By turning waste into a resource and fostering partnerships across sectors, we can make significant strides toward healthier oceans. Our combination of direct intervention and widespread advocacy ensures a comprehensive approach to tackling this critical environmental issue.

We need more awareness and action from individuals, communities, and governments worldwide. By signing this petition, you can help raise awareness about ocean acidification and encourage efforts towards finding effective solutions.
 
Thank you so much, this cause really means a lot to me! Please sign this petition today! <3