2.
Satellite measurements of the sea ice in the Arctic show that it is at
its second lowest point since measurements began thirty years ago. The lowest
amount was measured last year. That record still may be broken this month.
Scientists are suggesting that a “tipping point”
has been reached and the Arctic could be
free of ice in the summer in less than ten years. The melting ice can accelerate
warming in other parts of the world. Arctic sea ice is also the primary habitat
for polar bears which are a threatened species.
3. Ice on the Arctic Ocean melts in summer and refreezes in winter.
Last September there were only 1.65 million square miles of Arctic sea ice.
Polar bears can swim up to 100 miles.
4. This information about the Arctic environment is alarming. I have heard that global warming could affect future generations but here is startling evidence that the serious effects are happening now.
It is sad that changes in the Arctic may threaten the survival of polar bears. But the sea ice data signals that changes are in progress that may well affect all species around the world. Maybe information like this will motivate policy makers to take action to reduce carbon dioxide emissions. Even though some climate change seems inevitable, we may still be able to limit the impact on our planet.