Jane Lubchenco, who heads the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, warned of the damage from ocean acidification, which results from carbon dioxide emissions, during a visit to Australia this week, according to The Associated Press.

Another Senate committee is planning a direct look at climate change.

Senate Environment and Public Works Committee Chairwoman Barbara Boxer (D-Calif.) said Tuesday that her panel will convene a hearing before the end of the year to explore developments in climate science.