Consequences will be global: scientists announce new threat from glaciers

Scientists have long been sounding the alarm about global warming. The melting of glaciers could submerge entire countries, and the consequences for all of humanity would be catastrophic.

If the situation does not change, it is estimated that half of the 215,000 glaciers that exist today may disappear. But that's not all. Scientists have recently stated that melting glaciers are likely to slow the flow of water in the world's oceans. This will not only damage the stability of the shelf glaciers, but also disrupt the food chain of marine life. The details were reported by Al Jazeera.

Recent studies show that in a few decades, i.e. by 2050, deep-sea water flows in Antarctica could be reduced by an impressive 40%. And the consequences of humanity will be felt for centuries.

The overturning circulation of the world's oceans is very important because it carries vital nutrients, carbon and oxygen. It is caused by the movement of denser water towards the ocean floor.

Matthew England, a scientist at the University of New South Wales, stressed that if such predictions and computer modelling come true (which is highly likely), "the trajectory of the deep sea current will lead to collapse".

Let's look at a simple diagram. The water temperature is rising and glaciers are melting. Fresh water from them flows into the ocean. The salinity and density of the water decreases, as does the downward flow to the seabed.

According to John Church of the University of New South Wales, humanity must urgently reduce greenhouse gas emissions and take action to prevent a global catastrophe.

Slowing down the flow of water will reduce the overall circulation, the amount of phytoplankton and nutrients rising from the ocean floor.

Earlier, OBOZREVATEL reported that scientists had discovered a new threat inside the Doomsday Glacier. The 130 km wide ice flow inside the glacier could expand significantly in the next 20 years.

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