Why it matters:
If the planet is going to remain inhabitable by humans, we probably don’t want the polar ice caps to melt any time soon.
Recap:
A recent study reveals that the blanket of ice around the North Pole has thinned by over 40% in the past five years. Sea ice volumes reached record lows in 2008, a result of abnormally high temperatures across the world. The likely culprit? Climate Change. Uh oh.
The permafrost ice in the Arctic Ocean
reflects much of the sun’s radiation back toward outer space. As the
ice melts, exposed ocean water will change how energy is reflected away
from our planet with potentially disastrous results. So, not only will the ice no longer reflect the sun (because it melted into the ocean), but the ocean itself will absorb heat, causing a double whammy of biblical proportions.
Commentary:
So, the sky is falling and the oceans are boiling. Well, not quite, but you can’t help but notice some similarities to the “end of times” depictions in the Bible. Does this mean we should give up all hope and repent? Some already have, yet most still believe we have time to turn this thing around.
In truth, the battle against climate
change must be fought on individual as well as global fronts. You can
help to save our planet and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, all from the comfort of your own home. If the ice in the Arctic Ocean is to survive the damage we’ve already done, mankind is going to have to rethink a few nasty habits. Just a few extra minutes of effort each day is all that’s needed. Try these…
Creative Solutions:
- Use compact fluorescent lightbulbs
- Reduce your hot water use
- Recycle!
- Stop drinking bottled water
- Unplug appliances when not in use
- Become a Vegan
- Turn off the lights when you leave the room
- Stop your junk mail
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