Arctic Sea Ice

Arctic Sea Ice

News: According to a recent study published in the Nature Journal, the loss of Arctic Sea ice is expected to continue in the coming decades, even if carbon emissions are significantly reduced.

Key Findings:
 Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) reports confirm the decline of Arctic Sea ice. The first 'sea-ice free summer' is projected to occur before 2050, due to global emissions driving temperatures beyond 4.5°C.
 The study says that no emission scenario can prevent the loss of Arctic Sea ice in summer. If significant emission reductions are not undertaken, an ice-free summer could occur as early as the 2030s.
 Human-induced factors contribute to approximately 90% of ice melting, while natural variability accounts for the rest.
 Climate models, including those used by the IPCC, underestimated the speed of melting.

Which factors are responsible for rapid melting of Ice?
 Arctic Amplification – Phenomenon where the Arctic region experiences more rapid warming compared to other parts of planet.
 Ice has high reflectivity (albedo) compared to land or water surfaces. This, decreased ice cover reduces Earth’s surface reflectivity.
 Changes in atmospheric circulation patterns can transport warm air into the Arctic, further raising temperatures and melting ice.
 Permafrost thaws releases stored greenhouse gases which additionally contribute to warming.

What is the impact of Melting Arctic Ice? 
Impact
Rising sea levels, Salinity levels
Unpredictable weather patterns which impact other aspects of life
Threatens Biodiversity in the region
Coastal flooding
Damage to crop production, marine life
Tundra degradation, Permafrost Thaw

What can India do?
 Aim to better understand dynamics of Arctic demography and governance, acting beyond scientific exploration.
 Raise the alarming issue at Global Forums.
 Several studies have noted how melting of Arctic Sea ice impacts India. For example, the changes in the atmospheric circulation due to diminishing sea ice combined with the warm temperatures in the Arabian Sea contribute to enhanced moisture and drive extreme rainfall events.