Climate Change and Its Rapid Impacts on Earth

Recent climate research has brought into light alarming trends in global warming. After a record-breaking year for temperatures in 2024, scientists are increasingly concerned about the acceleration of climate change. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change last reached a consensus in 2021. However, evidence now suggests that the impacts of global warming are unfolding more rapidly than previously anticipated.

Critical Temperature Thresholds

Research indicates that the world may have already reached a critical threshold of 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. A study published in November 2024 analysed atmospheric gases trapped in Antarctic ice cores. This study proposed a longer pre-industrial temperature baseline, suggesting that warming could be as high as 1.49 degrees Celsius. This finding raises concerns about irreversible climate change effects.

Ocean Dynamics and Weather Patterns

The Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) plays important role in regulating climate. Recent studies reveal that AMOC has weakened by approximately 15% since 1950. The latest research suggests it may be closer to a critical slowdown than previously thought. Warmer ocean temperatures are also intensifying storms. For instance, Hurricane Milton rapidly escalated from a tropical storm to a powerful hurricane within a day.

Coral Reefs and Marine Ecosystems

The world is currently experiencing its fourth mass coral bleaching event. This event is the largest on record. Scientists are monitoring coral reefs globally to assess recovery potential. The ongoing ocean warming is not only affecting coral reefs but also increasing the intensity of storms across various ocean basins.

Wildfires and Forest Health

Global warming is contributing to increased wildfire activity. Dry conditions are leading to larger and more intense wildfires from North America to Europe and Asia. A study published in October 2024 estimated that about 13% of deaths linked to toxic wildfire smoke in the 2010s were attributable to climate change. The Amazon rainforest is experiencing its worst drought since 1950. This could push the ecosystem beyond a tipping point, resulting in degraded forests.

Carbon Emissions and Forests

Forests are struggling to absorb carbon dioxide due to drought and wildfires. A July 2024 study showed that forests absorbed less carbon dioxide compared to previous years. This resulted in record-high carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere. Additionally, the Arctic tundra, historically a carbon sink, is now releasing more carbon than it stores due to increased wildfire emissions.

Volcanic Activity and Climate Change

Rising temperatures may also influence volcanic activity. In Iceland, glaciers are retreating, reducing pressure on the Earth’s crust. This change could destabilise magma reservoirs, potentially leading to increased volcanic eruptions. Scientists are closely monitoring these developments to understand the broader implications of climate change on geological processes.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically analyse the impact of climate change on global biodiversity and ecosystems.
2. What are the causes and consequences of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation weakening? Explain.
3. With suitable examples, comment on the relationship between climate change and increased wildfire incidents.
4. What is the significance of carbon sinks in mitigating climate change? How are they affected by global warming?

Answer Hints:

1. Critically analyse the impact of climate change on global biodiversity and ecosystems.

1. Climate change leads to habitat loss, threatening species survival and leading to extinction.
2. Altered weather patterns disrupt migration and breeding cycles of various species.
3. Ocean warming results in coral bleaching, affecting marine biodiversity and ecosystems.
4. Increased frequency of extreme weather events damages ecosystems and reduces resilience.
5. Changes in precipitation patterns can lead to desertification, impacting terrestrial biodiversity.

2. What are the causes and consequences of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation weakening? Explain.

1. The AMOC weakening is primarily caused by increased freshwater influx from melting glaciers and ice sheets.
2. It has weakened by approximately 15% since 1950, affecting global climate patterns.
3. Consequences include harsher winters in Europe and increased sea level rise along the U.S. East Coast.
4. It may lead to more extreme weather events and disrupt marine ecosystems reliant on current flows.
5. Recent studies suggest it is closer to a critical slowdown, heightening concerns about future impacts.

3. With suitable examples, comment on the relationship between climate change and increased wildfire incidents.

1. Climate change increases temperatures and reduces moisture, creating conditions for wildfires.
2. For example, the Amazon rainforest is experiencing its worst drought, fueling widespread fires.
3. In North America, larger and more intense wildfires have been linked to rising temperatures.
4. Research indicates that up to 13% of wildfire smoke-related deaths in the 2010s were climate-related.
5. Warmer air holds more moisture, leading to intense storms that can exacerbate wildfire conditions.

4. What is the significance of carbon sinks in mitigating climate change? How are they affected by global warming?

1. Carbon sinks, like forests and oceans, absorb CO2, helping to mitigate climate change effects.
2. Healthy forests and ecosystems play important role in sequestering carbon from the atmosphere.
3. Global warming reduces the effectiveness of carbon sinks due to drought and increased wildfires.
4. For instance, the Arctic tundra, once a carbon sink, is now releasing more carbon than it absorbs.
5. Loss of carbon sinks accelerates climate change, creating a feedback loop that worsens global warming.