This summer may witness arctic meltdown. Scientists have predicted that, the ice caps at North Pole may melt away completely owning to the phenomenon of Global Warming. It has been noted in last year’s studies that, ice at North Pole has started liquefying significantly. And this year, it may just get worse with the remaining layers of ice getting heated up with rising global temperatures. Continued meltdown of thicker caps formed during the ice ages has exposed the thinner layers to warming climate. The remaining cold cover is made up of seasonal ice which is liable to a quick meltdown during summer months. As per, Andy Mahoney, researcher, University of Colorado’s National Snow and Ice Data Center, “This year there is a lot of young ice. There’s always some, but this year there’s a lot”.
Data from satellite observations reveal that in comparison to last year, the melt down rate has increased, which means, the probability of full-scale ice cap melting has also increased. This certainly is alarming news. Perhaps people should understand that small rise in temperature can have catastrophic effects.
The melting ice has roused an interest in international community more for political reasons than ecological and environmental concerns. Despite the unpleasant consequences of global warming and climate change, as expressed by environmentalists and scientists, what actually interests politicians is the vast area that will be exposed once the polar ice is gone! Canada, U.S, Russia and other nations bordering the Arctic are keen on acquisition of this newly shaped Artic region. The latter can prove to be suitable for shipping purposes. Every one wants a piece of pie!
The 1982 UN Convention on the Law of Sea defines the rights and responsibilities of nations in their use of the world’s oceans, establishing guidelines for businesses, the environment, and the management of marine natural resources. As per the convention, Arctic countries can prove their claim to the vastly uncharted polar ice packs of North Pole, ten years after ratification of the treaty. It is interesting to note that, United States has not ratified the treaty yet. It has objected to the provisions of the treaty on several grounds. The U.S. believes, the treaty is unfavorable to America’s economy and security. However, the decision upon the control of Artic will be taken by another UN panel by2020.
The irony of the whole situation is, instead of pondering over the grave consequences attributed by the complete meltdown of North Pole, the community of Arctic countries is busy reaping its respective interests. This blind pursuit of economic benefits at the cost of ecological balance with further burden our Mother Earth.
Via CTV
Tags: 1982 UN Convention, Artic, Earth, Ecology, Global Warming, Ice caps, Law of Sea, North Pole, Science