news.volyx.in

Major reversal in ocean circulation detected in the Southern Ocean (icm.csic.es)

483 points by riffraff · 391 days ago · 316 comments on HN

Article summary

Researchers have detected a significant shift in the Southern Ocean, with a sustained increase in surface salinity since 2016, indicating a change in ocean circulation that could have climate implications. This discovery was made possible by satellite data processing algorithms and new data processors for the European SMOS satellite. The study suggests that this change could lead to accelerated melting of sea ice and potentially release CO2. The Southern Ocean plays a crucial role in regulating the planet's heat and carbon, and its disruption could have cascading effects on other circulation systems.

Main themes

  • Climate Change
  • Ocean Circulation
  • Southern Ocean
  • Sea Ice Melting
  • CO2 Emissions
  • Climate Migration
  • Economic Implications
  • Scientific Research and Modeling

What commenters say

  • The reversal of the Southern Ocean's circulation could have unprecedented global climate impacts and accelerate the effects of climate change.
  • The current measurements and observations may not be sufficient to conclude that this is an unusual event, and more data is needed to understand the normal state of affairs.
  • Climate migration and unreliable weather patterns are potential consequences of the reversal, which could lead to massive migration and economic disruption.
  • The role of human selfishness and economic principles in contributing to climate change is a topic of debate, with some arguing that it is a key factor and others suggesting that it is not inherently more selfish than in the past.
  • The article's claims about the potential doubling of atmospheric CO2 are exaggerated and not supported by scientific evidence.
  • The collapse of the AMOC and the reversal of the Southern Ocean's circulation are potentially linked and could have severe consequences for the global climate.
  • The need for more accurate and reliable data, as well as better climate models, is essential for understanding and predicting the effects of climate change.
  • The economic and social implications of climate change, including the potential for uninsurable riches and massive migration, are significant and far-reaching.