COP 28: UN Secretary-General warns of melting Antarctic ice caps

Antarctica, once considered a "sleeping giant," is being awakened by climate change. Recent data reveals a shocking 1.5 million square kilometre decrease in sea ice extent compared to the September average, an area roughly the size of four European countries combined.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres highlighted the interconnected nature of our planet. The consequences of climate change felt in Antarctica are the direct result of actions far away, particularly fossil fuel emissions. The southern ocean has borne the brunt of global warming, absorbing much of its excess heat.

Antarctica is losing a staggering 150 billion tons of glacial ice annually, a rate that continues to accelerate. Ocean warming is the primary culprit, but warming air temperatures fueled by unprecedented heat waves are also contributing to the collapse of ice shelves.

Scientists warn that if the current trend continues, a two-meter sea level rise by 2100 is a real possibility. This would threaten hundreds of millions living in coastal areas, leading to increased storm and hurricane activity inundated homes and farmland. The complete melting of the West Antarctic ice sheet could trigger a catastrophic five-meter sea level rise.

Guterres' visit to Antarctica and his address at COP28, attended by delegates from 197 nations, aim to galvanize action towards the Paris Agreement's 1.5°C warming limit. This critical target is essential for protecting our planet and preventing the dire consequences of unchecked climate change.