Post by Victoria University of Wellington

New research shows surface melting across Antarctica is set to intensify and spread dramatically over the 21st century if global temperatures continue to rise. The study, led by researchers from the Antarctic Research Centre at VUW, highlights the rising risks for Antarctica’s ice shelves as the climate warms. “Our findings show Antarctic surface melting is not only increasing but spreading into new parts of the continent. This trend will continue if we keep doing business as usual. Just to stabilise melt at current levels, significant cuts in greenhouse gas emissions will likely be needed,” said study co-author Professor Nicholas Golledge, a climate scientist at VUW. These findings underscore the urgency of reducing emissions, says Nick. “Strong mitigation could stabilse melt, while weaker action leaves Antarctica exposed to rapidly escalating change. We know sea-level rise resulting from ice-sheet collapse would have major implications for coastal communities in Aotearoa New Zealand. Given our long coastline, we’re particularly vulnerable to rising seas.” Read more in the comments below.