Bleached white coral as far as the eye can see.

Climate Change

Swimmers brave the waters in the shadow of a coal-fired power plant. Coal plants like this one emit CO2 into our atmosphere which is warming the planet and altering the chemistry of the ocean.

Climate Change Overview

Are you a student researching climate change or someone looking to learn more about climate change and the ocean? This overview dives into everything to know.

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Featured Content

Nature’s Secret Weapon Against Climate Change

These schools of colorful reef fish call Raja Ampat, the global centre of fish diversity, home.

Are You An Educator?

At Smithsonian Ocean, we have lesson plans, activities, and resources to help you engage your students in the wonders of our oceans.
See climate change lesson plans see all lesson plans

Climate Change Articles

Alaska Vulnerable to Invasive Species from Warmer Waters

A photo of an oyster cage, out of the water, covered in sea squirts.

From Field to Lab: How Carbon Seeps Provide a Chance to See Future Impacts of Ocean Acidification

Tiny organisms found on ARMS

An Ocean Heat Wave Reaches to the Seafloor

a white coral on the seafloor

Nature’s Secret Weapon Against Climate Change

These schools of colorful reef fish call Raja Ampat, the global centre of fish diversity, home.

Reef Rescue: Protect Coral Reefs with Your Actions

A diver cares for the reef by cleaning up discarded fishing gear and garbage.

Sickly Starfish: A Q&A with Dr. Chris Mah

A decomposing sea star loses its grip on a rock.

A Pleasant Surprise: The Recovery of Bleached Panamanian Corals

An underwater photo of coral recovering from a bleaching event.

What is the Sea Ice Minimum? (And Why Do We Care)

Human activity is increasing in the Arctic marine environment due to climate change. To help the most vulnerable areas, the Global Marine Program of IUCN, along with partners, is convening a series of workshops aimed at enhancing ecosystem-based management and identifying biologically or ecologically important or vulnerable habitats. Burgerbukta, a bay in Svalbard, Norway, is being managed for ecosystem protection.

Up Close and Personal With the Fastest Glacier in the World

The Greenland glacier Jakobshavn Isbrae is massive, at around 40 miles long and more than a mile thick.