1. Rising Sea Temperature

1. Between 1994 and 2024, the sea surface temperature of the Yellow Sea increased by 0.2°C per decade.
2. Changes in fish populations due to rising temperatures, leading to the decline of coral reefs and seagrass beds.
3. Increased occurrences of harmful algal blooms (red tides), causing significant fisheries damage.

2. Sea Level Rise & Coastal Flooding

1. The sea level along the Yellow Sea coast has risen by 4.1 cm per decade.
2. Increased risk of flooding in low-lying coastal areas, ports, and urban regions.
3. Loss of tidal flats and coastal habitats, leading to further ecosystem changes.

3. Ocean Acidification

1. Rising atmospheric CO₂ levels are leading to a decrease in ocean pH.
2. Direct negative impact on marine organisms that rely on calcium carbonate, such as shellfish and corals.
3. Potential ecosystem imbalance and decline in fisheries productivity.

4. Extreme Weather Events

1. Increased frequency of typhoons and storm surges, resulting in greater coastal damage.
2. Heavy rainfall causing massive influxes of land-based pollutants into the Yellow Sea.
3. Greater climate variability leading to instability in marine ecosystems.