May 17th , 2024
Team LTG
Alaska's permafrost, the frozen ground beneath the surface, is thawing due to climate change, releasing hidden dangers that threaten the environment, infrastructure, and human health.
Melting permafrost can release long-dormant bacteria and viruses, posing potential health risks to humans and animals.
Permafrost holds vast amounts of mercury, which can be released into the environment as it thaws, contaminating water and food sources.
Thawing permafrost releases stored carbon dioxide and methane, potent greenhouse gases contributing to climate change.
As coastal permafrost thaws, it destabilizes shorelines, increasing erosion and threatening communities.
Buildings, roads, and pipelines built on permafrost face damage and collapse as the ground thaws and becomes unstable.
Melting permafrost alters the landscape, affecting wildlife habitats, plant communities, and the overall balance of ecosystems.
The risks of thawing permafrost are real and significant. We must mitigate climate change and find solutions to protect vulnerable communities and ecosystems.