Permafrost in climate change: Models predict Arctic's response to global warming

Permafrost is the name given to a permanently frozen state of the soil. But in the Arctic, these soils are thawing due to the effects of climate change. In a recent study, researchers describe the serious consequences this has for millions of people there.

Deterioration of food supplies, danger from pollutants and diseases: According to a study, the thawing of permafrost in the Arctic has enormous consequences.

Due to climate change, the permafrost is thawing and masses of earth are moving. The subsoil is also releasing hazardous substances. A study shows what this means for residents.

Thawing permafrost threatens up to three million people in Arctic regions

In an interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary study, an international team examined the social risks for Arctic regions associated with thawing permafrost. They identified five key risks related to infrastructure, transport and supply, water quality, food security and health. The scientists found that the thawing permafrost posed an increased risk of exposure to infectious diseases and release of contaminants, and interruptions of supply routes.

Permafrost thaw threatens up to 3 million people in the Arctic

Permafrost thaw poses multiple risks to local Arctic communities, their livelihoods, infrastructure and environment. A transdisciplinary study led by Umeå University and others has identified key risks across four Arctic regions. This allows communities to adapt and make informed decisions.

Permafrost in climate change: Models predict Arctic's response to global warming - Tech and Science Post

The Arctic is heating up particularly fast as a result of global warming—with serious consequences. The widespread permafrost in this region, where soils currently store twice as much carbon as the atmosphere, is thawing. Scientists are using increasingly detailed climate models to investigate what this means for the global climate and which striking feedbacks need to be taken into account. In 1827, the Russian merchant Fyodor Shergin tried to d…