Climate simulation raises alarm over potential ocean circulation collapse

A recent study by René van Westen showcases how melting Arctic freshwater could disrupt the Atlantic Ocean's circulation, potentially leading to abrupt climate changes.

Sarah Kaplan reports for The Washington Post.

In short:

The Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), crucial for regulating climate and weather patterns, may be nearing a critical "tipping point" due to increased freshwater from melting ice.
Historical data and advanced simulations indicate the AMOC has shut down before, with significant global climate implications.
Recent observations suggest the AMOC is weakening, raising concerns about its stability and the rapid, severe consequences of its potential collapse.

Key quote:

“In simple terms [it] would be a combined food and water security crisis on a global scale.”

— Tim Lenton, climate scientist at the University of Exeter

Why this matters:

Understanding and monitoring the AMOC's stability is vital for predicting future climate changes. A collapse could drastically alter weather patterns, affect global food and water security, and challenge our ability to adapt. Solutions exist but competing interests slow implementation.

www.ehn.org

Climate simulation raises alarm over potential ocean circulation collapse

Hungary's carbon tax violates EU rules, top court says

How ‘national security’ became the new justification for drilling

World's first fossil fuel phase-out conference puts ocean in its sights

Two Indigenous rights advocates remain behind bars in Russia

The man whom Exxon tried to drill

‘A ray of hope’: EU governments gathering to plan way out of fossil fuel reliance

Solar power in Morocco's desert: bold vision, mixed results

Multiple Houston-area oil and gas facilities that have violated pollution laws are seeking permit renewals

One facility has emitted cancer-causing chemicals into waterways at levels up to 520% higher than legal limits.

Pennsylvania health advocates say Trump’s first 100 days in office have caused “100 harms” to local communities

“They're terrorizing these scientists because they want to keep them silent.”

Regulators are underestimating health impacts from air pollution: Study

"The reality is, we are not exposed to one chemical at a time.”

Two years into his term, has Gov. Shapiro kept his promises to regulate Pennsylvania’s fracking industry?

A new report assesses the administration’s progress and makes new recommendations

An open letter from EPA staff to the American public

“We cannot stand by and allow this to happen. We need to hold this administration accountable.”

New evidence links heavy metal pollution with wildfire retardants

“The chemical black box” that blankets wildfire-impacted areas is increasingly under scrutiny.