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2016 Spring | Climate Change, Education & Outreach, Policy & Regulation

Climate Change’s Evil Twin: How Ocean Acidification Rose into the Washington State Policy Arena

Student(s):

Danielle Flanagan

Program or Department(s):

  • Program on the Environment
  • University of Washington

Site supervisor(s):

Dr. Meg Chadsey

Partner(s):

  • Washington Sea Grant

  • United States Environmental Protection Agency, Region 10

  • The Nature Conservancy

Faculty advisor(s):

Dr. Todd Wildermuth Director of Environmental Law Program, Policy Director of the Regulatory Environmental Law & Policy Clinic

Ocean acidification is a human driven environmental problem caused by the overabsorption of carbon dioxide by the world’s oceans. Washington State is already experiencing adverse effects from ocean acidification along its coasts. The purpose of this case study is to examine the key aspects of the case that have led Washington State to become a leader in ocean acidification policy. Through my internship and scholarly research, I found that the driving factors for action were diversified stakeholders, pervasive impacts, and no organized opposition. I hope that my research can help inform other states when addressing ocean acidification.