Scientists have warned that the Antarctic Circumpolar Current (ACC), a powerful ocean current, is slowing down due to climate change. The ACC plays a crucial role in regulating the planet’s climate and prevents warmer waters from reaching Antarctica.
Research conducted by scientists at the University of Melbourne has shown that the current may slow down by 20% by 2050 under a “high carbon emissions scenario”. This decline is driven by melting ice shelves around Antarctica.
The consequences of this slowdown are severe, including more extreme weather patterns and accelerated global warming. The ACC also acts as a natural carbon sink, but its weakening capacity could lead to catastrophic effects on the planet.
Furthermore, if the ACC continues to slow down, it may allow invasive species to enter Antarctica, which could disrupt the fragile ecosystem and impact iconic species like penguins. The researchers used Australia’s fastest supercomputer to produce their findings.
The study’s authors agree that the 2015 Paris Agreement’s goal of limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels is already being exceeded, and further climate change will only exacerbate the problem.
Source: https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/earths-strongest-ocean-current-is-slowing-down-and-it-could-have-devastating-consequences-7839207