WHY IT'S IMPORTANT

Melting ice plays an important feedback role with global warming. Sea ice is much more reflective than the surrounding ocean, so its melting increases the amount of energy absorbed by the ocean. As rising temperatures reduce the area of sea ice, more solar energy is absorbed and temperatures rise even further. While an active area of research, new studies show that Arctic ice may also influence weather patterns around the world by creating cold air masses. Locally, declining sea ice is affecting the feeding and migration patterns of polar bears, whales, walrus and seals, and the people who live in the Arctic and rely on seasonal ice for their livelihoods.