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Source: The post on Rapid Vegetation Increase in the Antarctic Peninsula is based on the article “As green patch spreads in Antarctica, here’s what is worrying scientists” published in “Indian Express” on 11th October 2024.
Why in the News?
Satellite data analysis reveals that plant cover on the Antarctic Peninsula has grown 14 times over the past 35 years, driven by rising temperatures. Vegetation mainly mosses and lichen expanded from under 1 sq km in 1986 to nearly 12 sq km by 2021.
What are the observation?
Between 2016 and 2021, the greening rate increased by over 30%, marking a significant shift in the region’s landscape. This expansion suggests that climate change’s impact reaches even remote areas like Antarctica.
Warming Trends in Antarctica
Rapid Temperature Rise: Antarctica’s temperatures are rising more than twice as fast as the global average. The Antarctic Peninsula, specifically, has warmed almost 3°C since 1950, and experiences temperatures up to five times higher than the global average.
Extreme Heat Events: The continent has seen record-breaking heatwaves, such as the intense March 2022 heatwave, where East Antarctica was 39°C above normal. This July, parts of Antarctica experienced ground temperatures up to 28°C higher than average.
Environmental Implications of Increased Plant Growth
Threat of Invasive Species: New soil formation from organic matter could make the peninsula more habitable for non-native species, potentially introduced by eco-tourists or researchers. This could disrupt local ecosystems and threaten native flora and fauna.
Decreased Albedo Effect: The darker plant-covered surface absorbs more solar radiation, reducing the region’s ability to reflect sunlight. This phenomenon may further raise ground temperatures, potentially accelerating ice melt and impacting global sea levels.
Ice Mass Decline: Antarctica has lost 280% more ice in the 2000s and 2010s than in previous decades, exacerbated by rising temperatures. Reduced sea ice extent, recorded as the second smallest in 2024, may create wetter conditions conducive to further plant growth.
Future Warming Concerns: With continued greenhouse gas emissions, temperatures are expected to rise, likely facilitating more vegetation expansion and contributing to Antarctica’s transformation.
UPSC Syllabus: Environment
