The Antarctic Circumpolar Current (ACC), the world’s strongest ocean current, is expected to slow down significantly by 2050 due to climate change. This phenomenon has far-reaching consequences for Earth’s climate, food systems, and ecosystems. The ACC plays a vital role in regulating the global conveyor belt of ocean currents, pumping water, heat, and nutrients around the globe.
Research suggests that rising temperatures are diluting the salty waters of the ACC, potentially disrupting its flow. This could have devastating effects on marine life, fisheries, and coastal communities that rely on it. A weaker current may also lead to more ice melting, exacerbating global sea-level rise.
The ACC’s slowdown is a concern due to its unique characteristics, which make it difficult to study. Unlike other ocean currents, the ACC is not well understood, and direct measurements are challenging due to its remote location.
To better understand the potential changes in the ACC, scientists used Australia’s fastest supercomputer to model its behavior. The results indicate that the current will slow down by 20% by 2050, which could have catastrophic consequences for the global ecosystem.
Reducing greenhouse gas emissions is crucial to limiting melting around Antarctica and mitigating the effects of climate change on our oceans. Establishing long-term studies in the Southern Ocean is essential for monitoring these changes accurately.
Consequently, concerted efforts are necessary to address and potentially avert the effects of climate change on our oceans.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20250303-the-worlds-strongest-ocean-current-is-at-risk