Impact of Greenhouse Gas Emissions on Arctic Ice Melt Rates
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47672/ajcs.2341Keywords:
Greenhouse, Gas Emissions, Arctic Ice Melt RatesAbstract
Purpose: The aim of the study was to assess the impact of greenhouse gas emissions on arctic ice melt rates.
Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries.
Findings: The study indicated that the increase in atmospheric concentrations of carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and other greenhouse gases has enhanced the greenhouse effect, trapping more heat in the Earth's atmosphere. This warming has been particularly pronounced in the Arctic region, where temperatures are rising at more than twice the global average rate. The warmer temperatures have resulted in earlier and more extensive melting of sea ice during the summer months, reducing the overall ice extent and thickness. This phenomenon is further exacerbated by positive feedback loops, such as the albedo effect, where the loss of reflective ice surfaces leads to greater absorption of solar radiation by the darker ocean waters, thereby increasing regional warming and further ice melt. Study have shown that the ongoing increase in greenhouse gas emissions will continue to drive significant declines in Arctic ice, with profound implications for global sea levels, weather patterns, and ecosystems. This trend underscores the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to reduce emissions and mitigate climate change impacts to preserve the Arctic environment.
Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: Greenhouse gas theory, albedo effect theory and climate change attribution theory may be used to anchor future studies on assessing the impact of greenhouse gas emissions on arctic ice melt rates. Investing in advanced satellite and remote sensing technologies is essential to provide more accurate and timely data on Arctic ice conditions. Formulating and enforcing stringent international policies aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions, particularly CO2 and CH4, is paramount.
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