The thawing of permafrost in the Arctic is warming our planet even more

Research has shown that thawing permafrost plays a major role in contributing to global warming. A study co-authored by NASA scientists sheds light on greenhouse gas emissions from the Arctic, which has stored vast amounts of carbon for thousands of years. Permafrost is soil that remains frozen for extended periods of time, even centuries. It contains layers of organic matter, including dead plants and animals. As the Arctic warms, this permafrost begins to thaw. When this happens, microbes break down the organic material, releasing greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. This process is a worrying feedback loop that could further exacerbate climate change.

Research results

The studyled by Stockholm University, tracked greenhouse gas emissions in the Arctic from 2000 to 2020. It found that the region, and especially its forests, initially absorbed more carbon dioxide than it emitted. However, this balance shifted when emissions from lakes, rivers and forest fires offset the uptake. As a result, the permafrost region has gone from a carbon sink to a net contributor to global warming.

The greenhouse gas dilemma

Of the greenhouse gases released, methane stands out. It is more effective at trapping heat than carbon dioxide, although it has a shorter atmospheric life. The study found that wetlands and lakes are important sources of methane, contributing to the region’s total greenhouse gas emissions.

Methodology

Researchers used both bottom-up and top-down methods to calculate emissions. The bottom-up approach was based on direct measurements and models, while the top-down method used satellite data to assess atmospheric concentrations of gases. Both methods provided valuable insights, but indicated different emission sizes.

Conclusion

The findings show us the complexity of climate dynamics in the Arctic. As permafrost continues to thaw, the balance of greenhouse gases is likely to shift further. This ongoing change has serious consequences for global warming and climate policy. Understanding these dynamics is key to mitigating future climate impacts.