The ‘Last Ice Area’, located in the Arctic’s Ice north of Greenland, is experiencing an unexpected early melt. This region, previously considered robust enough to survive global warming, is now facing dramatic changes that impact both its environment and the species living there.
The Last Ice Area
Situated north of Greenland and Ellesmere Island in the Canadian territory of Nunavut, the ‘Last Ice Area’ (LIA) has traditionally been a refuge for ice-dependent species as surrounding areas succumb to melting. Thought to be resistant to total ice disappearance, predicted for the rest of the Arctic by 2040, the LIA was first dubbed as such by World Wildlife Fund (WWF)-Canada. The area provides vital resources for polar bears hunting seals, seals building dens for their offspring, and walruses foraging for food. Additionally, it serves as a crucial highway for the Inuit population, allowing them to travel and hunt.
Reasons behind the Melting
Approximately 80% of the thinning ice in the LIA can be attributed to weather-related factors, such as strong winds breaking up and moving ice. The remaining 20% is thought to be due to ongoing global warming-driven thinning of the ice.
About the Arctic
Being the globe’s most northern point, the Arctic consists of the Arctic Ocean, adjacent seas, and parts of Alaska, Canada, Finland, Greenland, Iceland, Norway, Russia, and Sweden. This region experiences seasonally varying snow and ice cover. Since 2013, India has held observer status in the Arctic Council, the leading inter-governmental forum that focuses on the environmental and developmental facets of the Arctic.
The Impact of Melting Arctic Ice on Global Climate
The Arctic and Antarctic regions function as the Earth’s refrigerator. Covered in white snow and ice, they reflect heat back into space, balancing the parts of the world that absorb heat. This reflective quality, known as the Albedo effect, is vital for maintaining global temperatures.
Effects on Coastal Communities
The average global sea level has risen by about 7-8 inches since 1900, with the risk continuing to increase. Rising seas threaten coastal cities and small island nations by intensifying coastal flooding and storm surges.
Food Security Concerns
Ice loss-triggered polar vortexes, escalated heatwaves, and unpredictable weather patterns pose significant risks to crop production globally.
The Risk to Permafrost & Global Warming
The Arctic’s permafrost (land that is permanently frozen) stores vast amounts of methane, a greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change. The thawing of permafrost thus exacerbates global warming.
Threats to Biodiversity
The melting of the Arctic ice endangers the region’s rich biodiversity.
India’s Stance on Arctic Interests
India recently contributed to the 3rd Arctic Science Ministerial (ASM), expressing plans for research and long-term cooperation within the Arctic Region.
Last Modified: February 15, 2024