We use cookies to imporve your experience. By using our site, you consent to our cookie policy Learn more
arrow arrow_up breadcrumb-chevron-right breadcrumb-home dropdown-arrow-down loader GALogoWUNEP GALogo2018 GALogo2019 menu read-more-plus rrss-email rrss-facebook rrss-flickr rrss-instagram rrss-linkedin rrss-twitter rrss-vimeo rrss-youtube rrss_google_plus rrss_skype rrss_web pdf search share Completed In Process Ideas In Develpment Toogle Toogle Thumbnail View List View play close filter-collapse filter edit media_photo_library media_video_library graphics pictures videos collections next

Permafrost thaw: A sleeping giant awakes

Permafrost is ground that remains frozen for two or more years. Globally, these frozen soils hold an estimated 1,500 billion tons of carbon. This carbon reservoir is stable as long as it remains frozen. Higher temperatures cause the permafrost to thaw. This process can release carbon dioxide and methane, which causes further warming. Exactly how much of these gases could be released is one of the large unknowns in the Earth’s climate system. The thawing trend appears to be irreversible. Even with a global reduction of greenhouse gases, the current area of permafrost would still shrink by 45 per cent by 2100. This has consequences for coastal erosion, infrastructure, ecosystems and humans.


Year: 2019

From album: Global Linkages: A graphic look at the changing Arctic

Produced by: GRID-Arendal

Tags: Arctic climate change permafrost promotional video

Videos included in same album

View all media