Scientists make stunning discovery on Arctic mission that could impact the entire globe: 'It's like going to another planet'

Researchers recently confirmed how the rapid loss of Arctic sea ice impacts weather patterns worldwide.

They did so by studying the impact of clouds over the Arctic and how they affect sea ice melt in summer. 

What's happening?

As the University of Miami reported, the researchers deployed missions to Greenland to study the rapid ice loss in Arctic seas.

Atmospheric scientists from several universities hoped to understand why Arctic sea ice is melting at such an alarming rate. They found that ice reflects large amounts of solar energy but that as it melts, it's replaced with dark ocean water that absorbs heat.

This phenomenon diminishes Earth's reflectivity and has a ripple effect on weather in other parts of the world.

The researchers, led by Paquita Zuidema, observed that the Arctic is warming two to four times faster than the rest of Earth. Using satellites, they conducted a detailed study about how clouds impact Arctic surfaces and rates of sea ice melt.

"We've gotten a really good look at these clouds for the first time, and it's possible they may have a much stronger influence on Arctic surfaces and sea ice cover than we realized," Patrick Taylor said. 

Why is melting Arctic sea ice important?

Observing and monitoring Earth's weather patterns from space via satellites is an effective way to get big-picture views of what is happening with our climate. Scientists can use this data when they visit rapidly changing places such as the Arctic to make conservation and sustainability recommendations.

In this study, researchers reinforced that changes in the Arctic also affect other parts of the world.

Arctic sea ice is critical to balancing Earth's temperature by reflecting the sun's rays back into the atmosphere. The sea ice loss also impacts marine ecosystems and eliminates vital habitats for native wildlife including polar bears and seals. 

Would you live in a home made of bacteria? Absolutely 🦠 Depends on the cost 💰 Depends how it looks 🏡 No way 👎 Click your choice to see results and speak your mind.

What's being done about the changing Arctic climate?

The researchers recommend additional study in the Arctic to assess changes and better understand their localized and broader impacts.

"Continuous long-term monitoring of the Arctic is crucial at this point in time," Zuidema said. "For a highly detailed picture of the Arctic, we really must go there. It's like going to another planet without leaving this one."

Even if you live far from the Arctic, learning about the changing climate is important because of its far-reaching impacts. Even slight changes in the Arctic can result in higher tides during extreme weather events, disrupted food systems, and public health risks close to home.

Anything you can do as an individual to curb harmful pollution can also help. Examples include making your next car an electric vehicle and taking public transportation.

Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.