Scientists have warned that rapid and potentially irreversible changes are occurring in Antarctica, driven by climate change. The research, published in the journal Nature, suggests that the continent could become ice-free in summer sooner than the Arctic, speeding up warming and putting marine species at risk.
The study found a “regime shift” in sea ice, meaning that Antarctica’s ice may be a tipping point in the Earth’s system. If global carbon dioxide emissions are not curbed, the risk of major changes to the continent increases, but even reducing emissions may not prevent some loss of ice over centuries.
Researchers analyzed data from observations, ice cores, and ship logbooks to track long-term changes in sea ice coverage. The slowdown of ocean currents has already begun, which would lead to widespread climate and ecosystem impacts.
The effects on wildlife are significant, with emperor penguins, krill, and phytoplankton populations all threatened by the loss of ice. Since 2014, sea ice has retreated an average of 120 kilometers from the continent’s shoreline, harming these species.
A 90% of global warming heat is absorbed by oceans, making Antarctica’s ice loss particularly concerning. The study’s findings highlight the urgent need to address climate change and reduce carbon emissions to mitigate its impacts on the planet.
Source: https://www.dw.com/en/antarctic-ice-loss-could-have-catastrophic-impact/a-73710889