We found a match
Your institution may have access to this item. Find your institution then sign in to continue.
- Title
Permafrost Showdown.
- Authors
HUNZIKER, ROBERT
- Abstract
The article discusses the threat posed by the thawing of permafrost due to global warming. As permafrost thaws, it releases carbon into the atmosphere in the form of methane, a potent greenhouse gas. Scientists estimate that up to 950 billion tons of carbon are stored in permafrost, and the release of methane from Siberian lakes alone could be ten times the current amount in the atmosphere. The thawing of permafrost also has implications for ecosystems, as it can lead to the formation of thermokarst lakes and the exposure of ancient viruses and toxic contamination sites. The article emphasizes the need for adaptation to climate change and highlights the importance of renewable energy sources in reducing CO2 emissions. However, it also acknowledges that fossil fuels will still account for a significant portion of global energy consumption in the coming years. The article raises concerns about the potential impact of permafrost thawing on regions such as Pakistan, India's Indus River Valley, eastern China, and sub-Saharan Africa. It also mentions the political challenges in addressing climate change, including the potential reversal of climate policies by politicians who prioritize the interests of the oil and gas industry.
- Subjects
PERMAFROST; CLIMATE change adaptation; GLOBAL warming; CLEAN energy investment; FROZEN ground
- Publication
CounterPunch, 2024, p1
- ISSN
1086-2323
- Publication type
Article