First Ice Free Day in Arctic could occur before 2030

Key Findings of the Study

Sea Ice Decline Rate

• Over the past 40 years, Arctic sea ice extent has been shrinking at a rate of6% per decade, an unprecedented decline in the last 1,500 years (MIT Climate Portal, 2023).

Key Contributors to Arctic Warming

• Alarming GHG Levels: In 2023, global concentrations of carbon dioxide, methane,and nitrous oxide reached record highs (World Meteorological Organization).
• Arctic Warming Rate: The Arctic is warming 4 times faster than the global average, threatening ecosystems, infrastructure and livelihoods.

Consequences of an Ice-Free Arctic

Climate Change Acceleration

• Albedo Effect: Loss of reflective sea ice will increase solar energy absorption by darker ocean surfaces, further warming the Arctic. This will lead to more extreme weather events in mid-latitudes & Intensified global warming.

Rising Sea Levels

• Sea level rise is worsening: The global sea level has risen 1.5x faster in the past decade compared to the 1990s.
• Greenland Ice Sheet: Complete melting could raise sea levels by 6 meters, endangering coastal communities globally.

Ecosystem and Biodiversity Threats

• Loss of sea ice and melting permafrost will affect species such as polar bears, walruses, arctic foxes, snowy owls and reindeer.
• Impacts on Arctic Communities: Infrastructure, livelihoods and traditional practices of indigenous Arctic peoples are under significant threat.

Sharing is caring!