New research shows that melting ice is slowing down the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), with serious consequences for the planet’s climate and ecosystems.
This circulation, which starts in the Gulf of Mexico and moves north towards Europe, is crucial for climate regulation and provides mild winters in western European countries. However, new research demonstrates that the AMC has weakened to historically low levels over the past 1,000 years, attributed to global warming and the melting of Greenland’s glaciers.
AMOC has shrunk by 15 per cent since 1950 and is at its weakest state in more than a millennium, according to previous studies that have prompted speculation of an impending collapse.
The circulation could become a third weaker if temperatures rise by 2 degrees Celsius, according to scientists. This would lead to harsher winters in Europe and changes in precipitation in the Northern Hemisphere.
Meltwater from the Arctic is lighter than salt water and prevents cold sea water from sinking, weakening the Gulf Stream. As a result, regions such as the UK could face colder climates. Climate change will affect millions of people and ecosystems around the world.
