A new study published in the journal Nature Geoscience has found that climate change could melt frozen methane deposits under the ocean, potentially releasing a significant amount of this potent greenhouse gas into the atmosphere. Researchers from Newcastle University, UK, led the study, which focused on methane hydrates, a frozen form of methane found in deep ocean sediments.
The study's lead author, Dr. Jemma Wadham, said, "We found that climate change is warming the ocean waters around these methane hydrates, causing them to melt and release methane into the water column. This methane can then rise to the surface and enter the atmosphere, where it can contribute to global warming."
Methane is a much more potent greenhouse gas than carbon dioxide, meaning it has a much greater warming effect on the planet. The researchers estimate that the release of just a small fraction of the methane stored in ocean hydrates could have a significant impact on global climate.
"This is a worrying finding," said Dr. Wadham. "It highlights the potential for climate change to trigger a positive feedback loop, where warming oceans lead to the release of methane, which then further warms the planet."
The study's findings add to the growing body of evidence that climate change is already having a significant impact on the Earth's natural systems. It also emphasizes the need for urgent action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and prevent further warming.
What can we do?
Here are a few things we can do to help address this issue:
- Reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and switch to renewable energy sources.
- Improve energy efficiency in our homes and businesses.
- Support policies that promote clean energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
- Spread awareness about the issue of climate change and the need for action.
Additional information:
- The study was funded by the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC).
- The research team included scientists from Newcastle University, the University of Southampton, and the University of Edinburgh.
- The study's findings have been welcomed by climate scientists, who say they provide further evidence of the need for urgent action to address climate change
Sources
:
- https://www.ptinews.com/news/health-and-lifestyle/climate-change-could-melt-frozen-methane-from-deep-ocean-waters-research-finds/702372.html
- https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/science-technology/climate-change-could-melt-frozen-methane-from-deep-ocean-waters-find-researchers-569675
- https://www.ptinews.com/news/health-and-lifestyle/climate-change-could-melt-frozen-methane-from-deep-ocean-waters-research-finds/702372.html
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