[Answered] Explain the role of Arctic tundra and permafrost in the global carbon cycle. How has the recent thawing of permafrost impacted greenhouse gas emissions? (250 Words)
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Red Book

Introduction: Contextual Introduction

Body: Highlight the role of tundra and permafrost in the global carbon cycle & impact of the thawing of permafrost impacted greenhouse gas emissions.

Conclusion: Way forward

The Arctic tundra and permafrost play a crucial role in the global carbon cycle, acting as a massive carbon sink.

Role of Arctic Tundra and Permafrost in the Global Carbon Cycle

  • Carbon Sink: The tundra’s vegetation absorbs carbon dioxide (CO₂) through photosynthesis. Due to the extremely cold climate, the decomposition of organic matter is significantly slowed, trapping plant and animal remains in permafrost for thousands of years. This process prevents the release of CO₂ into the atmosphere, thereby acting as a carbon sink.
  • Carbon Reservoir: Arctic soils store over 1.6 trillion metric tonnes of carbon, approximately double the carbon currently in the atmosphere. This massive storage helps regulate atmospheric carbon levels.
  • Slow Decomposition: The cold temperatures of the Arctic tundra slow down the process of decomposition. This means that organic matter accumulates in the soil rather than decomposing quickly and releasing carbon dioxide.

Impact of Recent Thawing on Greenhouse Gas Emissions

  • Release of Greenhouse Gases: As permafrost thaws, the organic matter trapped within it begins to decompose. This decomposition process releases large amounts of carbon dioxide and methane, both potent greenhouse gases, into the atmosphere. Methane, in particular, is a far more potent greenhouse gas than carbon dioxide, contributing significantly to global warming.
  • Positive Feedback Loop: The release of greenhouse gases from thawing permafrost exacerbates global warming, leading to further thawing and the release of more greenhouse gases. This creates a positive feedback loop that can accelerate climate change.
  • Altered Ecosystem: Thawing permafrost can also alter the Arctic ecosystem. It can lead to changes in vegetation, soil erosion, and the release of nutrients and pollutants that were previously locked in the frozen ground. These changes can further impact the carbon cycle and have cascading effects on other ecosystems.

Conclusion

The Arctic tundra and permafrost have historically stabilized the global carbon cycle by storing carbon for millennia. However, rising temperatures and increased wildfires have turned this crucial ecosystem into a source of greenhouse gases, intensifying climate change. Immediate global action to reduce emissions is essential to mitigate this alarming trend and restore the Arctic’s role as a carbon sink.

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