Unseen Feedback Loop Speeds Antarctic Glacier Meltdown, Threatening Sea-Level Rise
A study from UC San Diego's Scripps Institution of Oceanography reveals that meltwater flowing beneath Antarctic glaciers, known as subglacial discharge, is accelerating their ice loss and contributing to sea-level rise. The study's simulations show that subglacial discharge increased the sea-level rise contribution of two glaciers in East Antarctica by 15.7% by 2300 under a high emissions scenario. This effect is not currently accounted for in major sea-level rise projections, potentially underestimating the pace of global sea-level rise. The study highlights the importance of reducing greenhouse gas emissions to mitigate the impact on coastal communities. Further research is needed to understand the magnitude of subglacial discharge on other Antarctic glaciers.
- Chilling Reality: An Unseen Factor Is Accelerating Antarctic Glacier Meltdown SciTechDaily
- Antarctica is melting and we all need to adapt, a trio of climate analyses show Wisconsin Public Radio
- A hidden feedback loop under Antarctica’s glaciers could accelerate sea level rise, scientists find CNN
- Antarctica’s glaciers are melting from beneath, speeding sea-level rise The Hill
Want the full story? Read the original reporting
Read on SciTechDaily