by Mack Ross
Photo: Jeff Reindl
“The earth is what we all have in common” – Wendell Berry
Growing up as a nature-lover and learning about the environment extensively in my studies, I have always been motivated by this quotation from naturalist and writer Wendell Berry. To me these words inspire action to protect and conserve the environment because it is something that will benefit everyone. When I moved to Vancouver Island six years ago, I noticed a degree of local environmental consciousness that I hadn’t experienced elsewhere. Now as an Assistant Educator at the Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea, I have been able to recognize many organizations and people who work to protect this exceptional ecosystem and embody the meaning of this quotation.
For those who spend their time learning, working, or simply being fascinated by nature, the looming threat of global climate change can quickly overshadow any sense of wonder with feelings of sorrow and uncertainty. However, as we look into a future which will be dominated by climate change, there are certain characteristics that could make the Salish Sea more resilient than other natural areas around the globe.
What is ecological resilience?
Ecological or environmental resilience describes the capacity of an ecosystem to respond to, or bounce back from, any form of disturbance. This could refer to a single disturbance event, such as an oil spill, or longer term disturbances like the impacts associated with global climate change (warming temperatures, sea level rise, ocean acidification). When considering the Salish Sea, there are several distinct components which contribute to the resilience of the region.
Salish Sea & Surrounding Basin
(Stefan Freelan, 2009)
Geographical factors contributing to resilience
The geographical features of the Salish Sea, including submarine canyons, increase the degree of coastal upwelling. Coastal upwelling describes the vertical circulation of the ocean, pulling colder water from the deep ocean towards the surface. The conditions created by ocean upwelling not only allow the native biodiversity to flourish, but it also contributes to ecological resilience by introducing water which contains more oxygen, is less acidic, and is colder. These abiotic factors will play a major role in regulating the climate change impacts we are projected to experience locally.
Biological factors contributing to resilience
The Salish Sea is often referred to as a biodiversity hotspot because it is comprised of biologically rich environments, such as kelp forest ecosystems, which support important connections between species. The unique resources in the Salish Sea set the stage for the success of a wide diversity of species, many of whom we appreciate everyday here at the Centre. It is this degree of biodiversity that makes the Salish Sea even more resilient within the face of disturbance and climate change.
Anthropogenic influence and resilience
Aside from the Salish Sea’s geographic and biological features, it is also important to reflect on anthropogenic influences. It is estimated that approximately 8.7 million people inhabit the Salish Sea bioregion, so we must consider these social factors in order to get a true sense of the region’s resilience. A population of that size places significant strain on the environment including effects such as habitat loss, habitat fragmentation, pollution, overharvesting, and many other impacts. However, there is also positive human influence including an abundance of institutions, community organizations, and people which all come together to protect and educate about different aspects of the area. By learning and investing in ways to conserve the Salish Sea, we can work towards a more sustainable future for all who inhabit this ecosystem — plants, animals, and people.
Photo: Jeff Reindl
How can YOU contribute to resilience in the Salish Sea?
Protect salmon habitats near where you live.
Conservation shouldn’t be confined to the ocean, ecosystems like salmon spawning rivers are directly connected to the sea.
“All drains lead to the ocean.”
Take responsibility for what you are putting down the drain. This is important to consider when purchasing cleaning products, but also when using roadways and public spaces. Storm drains lead to the ocean.
Appreciate wildlife — but give them space!
Getting outside and exploring is a great way to learn about the region, but remember to keep a safe and respectful distance from wildlife.
Take three for the sea.
When outside exploring, pick up three pieces of trash to prevent it from making its way to the ocean.
Be an advocate.
Talk to your friends, family and community about the ways you are protecting the environment.
Focus on something you love.
When working to conserve the environment, it is important to remember what you are working to protect and the meaning behind your actions. Whether you are focused on protecting a certain species, a specific place, or even the presence of a particular resource, don’t lose sight of what you truly value.
Although the Salish Sea may have a strengthened degree of resilience, we still need to reflect and respond on the ways our region will change amidst climate change. We should take this opportunity to do our part in conserving the environments around us.
References
Khangaonkar, T., Nugraha, A., Xu, W., Balaguru, K., & Pacific Northwest National Lab (2019). Salish sea response to global climate change, sea level rise, and future nutrient loads. Journal of Geophysical Research. Oceans, 124(6), 3876-3904. http://doi.org/10.1029/2018JC014670
Wasem, M (2019). Study tests resilience of the Salish Sea to climate change impacts. Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. Retrieved from https://phys.org/news/2019-08-resilience-salish-sea-climate-impacts.html