The implications of 1.5°C global warming for the Antarctic

Abstract

A global increase in temperature of 1.5°C is predicted to have disastrous effects on ecosystems around the world, particularly in Antarctica. The implications of this global warming effect have been discussed at length in many scholarly papers. Implications are not only limited to biophysical realms but reach to both socioeconomic and political aspects as well. Antarctica as a continent is vulnerable to the radiating impact of climate change in all of these areas. Ice dynamics, wildlife, conservation, fisheries, tourism, mining, and governance are all at risk. An increase of 1.5°C is explored in this syndicate report, however, this value is considered to be rather conservative and is posed as a preferable future scenario. Serious action needs to be taken in order to protect the future of Antarctica, as the expected increase in temperature is likely to be much greater than 1.5°C.