Cutting emissions is the only way to keep the Atlantic overturning circulation alive
Experts argue that rapid reduction of greenhouse-gas emissions is the sole practical method to prevent the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) from collapsing.
The article clarifies the distinction between the wind-driven Gulf Stream and the deep-water Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), which moves warm water northward and cold water southward. Recent scientific debate focuses on AMOC because fresh meltwater from Arctic and Greenland ice reduces surface salinity, hindering the sinking of water that drives the circulation. A weakened AMOC would transport less heat to Northwestern Europe, potentially lowering regional temperatures by several degrees and disrupting agriculture and daily life. Historical data show the circulation has weakened dramatically during past ice ages, and models predict a similar trend within the next two centuries if global warming exceeds 1.5 °C. The authors, Tommi Juusela and Petteri Uotila, conclude that the most effective safeguard is a swift, substantial cut in greenhouse-gas emissions and bolstering of natural carbon sinks.
