
permafrost melting
Permafrost is a layer of permanently frozen soil found in polar regions. It holds large amounts of organic material, including carbon. As global temperatures rise, permafrost is starting to thaw, releasing greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide and methane into the atmosphere. This process contributes to climate change, creating a feedback loop: warmer temperatures cause more permafrost to melt, which in turn raises temperatures further. Additionally, thawing permafrost can destabilize the ground, leading to issues like erosion and damage to infrastructure. Addressing permafrost melting is essential for understanding and mitigating climate change impacts.