Thawing permafrost releases greenhouse gases, contributing to global warming

Research has highlighted the important role of thawing permafrost in contributing to global warming. A study co-authored by NASA scientists sheds light on greenhouse gas emissions from the Arctic region, where large amounts of carbon have been stored for thousands of years. Permafrost is ground that remains frozen for long 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 organic matter, releasing greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. This process constitutes a worrying feedback loop that can make climate change even worse.

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The study, led by Stockholm University, tracked greenhouse gas emissions in the Arctic from 2000 to 2020. It found that the region, particularly its forests, initially absorbed more carbon dioxide than it emitted. However, this balance shifted as emissions from lakes, rivers and wildfires offset absorption. As a result, the permafrost region has gone from being a carbon sink to being a net contributor to global warming.

The greenhouse gas dilemma

Among the greenhouse gases emitted, methane is particularly important. It is more effective at trapping heat than carbon dioxide, although it has a shorter atmospheric lifespan. The study found that wetlands and lakes are important sources of methane, contributing to the region’s overall greenhouse gas emissions.

Methodology

The researchers used “bottom-up” and “top-down” methods to calculate emissions. The bottom-up approach relied on direct measurements and models, while the top-down method used satellite data to assess atmospheric gas concentrations. Both methods provided valuable information but indicated different magnitudes of emissions.

Conclusion

The results show us the complexity of Arctic climate dynamics. As permafrost continues to thaw, the balance of greenhouse gases will likely shift further. This ongoing change has serious implications for global warming and climate policies. Understanding these dynamics is very important for mitigating future climate impacts.