I’ve spent 40 years in Antarctic research. Right now it’s facing a climate emergency so we must not put vital science on ice
After decades immersed in Antarctic science, I’ve learned that physical and biological changes rarely occur smoothly. More often than not, they unfold in sharp steps. Right now, Antarctica’s climate and ecosystems are experiencing disturbing changes.
Much of this winter’s sea ice is missing. A crucial ocean current is slowing down, and glaciers and ice shelves are disintegrating.
On land, fragile moss ecosystems are collapsing. Majestic emperor penguins may be heading for extinction. And pollution from human activity in Antarctica has left a toxic legacy.
It’s almost certain things will get worse. On Friday, hundreds of international scientists called for an urgent expansion – not contraction – of Southern Ocean science in response to the emerging climate crisis.… Seguir leyendo »