Our Future

• Main Author: Summerhayes, Colin
• Format: Book Part
• Language: English
• Published: Oxford University PressNew York 2023
• Subjects: Greenland; West Antarctica; Antarc*; Antarctica
• Online Access: http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/oso/9780197627983.003.0009; https://academic.oup.com/book/chapter-pdf/58048051/oso-9780197627983-chapter-9.pdf

Abstract The warming of the air by CO2 emissions began in the mid 1800s, rose slowly at first then rapidly after 1950, when >90% of fossil fuels were burned. Global overheating is now melting the reflective snow and ice forming Earth’s refrigerator. 90% of the warmth from global warming lies in the ocean, where it is penetrating to greater depths. Melting land ice and ocean warming are raising sea level. Greenland and West Antarctica are the main sources of meltwater, supplemented by melting ice in mountains. Melting ice and rising seas lag temperature rise, but will come into equilibrium with it over some hundreds of years. Ceasing CO2 emissions at a level that maintains warming at 1.5°C (2.7°F) or more above its level in 1900 guarantees continued ice melt and sea level rise. To stop this we must reduce CO2 to 300 ppm. Only governments can do this, with the aid of current and new technologies. Individuals can help by changing their habits. We need intentional planetary engineering.