What's going on with the Arctic sea ice?
Scientists now predict that there might be
no more summer ice
in the Arctic by the 2030s. That's way sooner than expected!
Why does Arctic sea ice matter? There are
5 key reasons
By reflecting sunlight, Arctic sea ice
maintains stable temperature.
But as the ice melts, the ocean gets more sunlight, causing faster warming.
This
disrupts weather trends
everywhere and speeds up climate change.
Secondly, polar bears, seals, and walruses are all at risk. The melting ice means
less hunting areas for polar bears and fewer homes for seals.
But it doesn't stop there. The melting Arctic ice also causes
global sea levels to rise,
putting coastal towns at risk.
Fourthly, as ice thaws, it
releases greenhouse gases
like carbon dioxide and methane.
It could also release
bacteria and viruses
that have been frozen for a long time.
Lastly, it is causing the
US, China, and Russia
to compete hard for resources as melting ice creates new possibilities.
The melting of Arctic ice isn't just a change that's happening in a faraway part of the world.
It also has effects all over the world.
Learn more