Greenland’s Bedrock Rising and Creating New Land, Study Finds
In a new study published by Geophysical Research Letters, researchers have discovered that Greenland’s bedrock is rising faster than the rising seas, leading to the creation of new land in Greenland’s sea. The findings shed light on the physical reshaping of our world due to climate change.
One notable example of this phenomenon is the recognition of a 13-kilometer (8 mile) long landmass known as Uunartoq Qeqertaq, or “warming island.” It was officially added to Greenland’s maps in 2005, highlighting the significant changes occurring in the region.
According to the study, Greenland has been experiencing a gradual uplift since the last ice age approximately 12,000 years ago. However, data collected from 58 GPS stations across the country reveals that the melting has been accelerating at an alarming rate.
Over the past decade, Greenland’s bedrock has risen up to 20 centimeters (7.9 inches), equivalent to about 2 meters (6.6 feet) per century. This rise in landmass is primarily influenced by the glaciers around Greenland’s periphery, which account for only 4% of the island’s total ice cover but contribute to nearly 15% of its ice loss. The impact of these outer glaciers on the uplift of the land mass is due to elastic rebound.
Understanding the uplift of Greenland’s bedrock is crucial for accurate estimations of sea level rise. With the data provided by the GPS stations, researchers can make more precise predictions about the potential consequences of melting ice and rising seas.
This discovery adds to the growing body of evidence for climate change and its physical impacts on our world. As global temperatures continue to rise and glaciers melt, countries around the world will have to contend with the consequences of sea level rise and land loss.
The findings from this study provide valuable insights into these impacts, specifically in the context of Greenland. It is evident that urgent action is needed to address climate change and protect our planet from irreversible damage. As we witness the physical reshaping of our world, it becomes increasingly important to prioritize sustainable practices and solutions to combat the effects of climate change.
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