Greenland's lakes turn toxic: CO2 emissions rise 350%
Atmospheric rivers have led to significant alterations in Greenland's ecosystem. Lakes, once renowned for their clear, blue water, have now become brown water reservoirs. In a recent study, scientists discovered that these lakes, instead of absorbing carbon dioxide, are starting to emit it.
Scientists from the University of Maine report that approximately 7,500 lakes in the western part of Greenland underwent notable changes after an exceptionally hot and rainy period in the fall of 2022. The high temperatures and rain, which occurred in place of snow, caused the permafrost to melt. This process released substantial amounts of carbon, iron, and magnesium into the environment.
Rainfall facilitated the entry of elements into the lakes, altering their chemical composition. The increase in organic matter spurred bacterial growth, leading to the browning of the water and the emergence of an unpleasant odor. These changes pose a threat to local communities that rely on lakes as a source of drinking water.
Changes in the chemical composition of the waters affect the biodiversity of plankton. Darker waters block sunlight, resulting in a decline in the number of phytoplankton, which previously absorbed carbon dioxide. Consequently, CO2 emissions from the lakes have increased by 350%.
Atmospheric rivers as a catalyst
Atmospheric rivers are relatively narrow bands where increased humidity occurs. These formations in the atmosphere are responsible for transporting huge amounts of water vapor, usually originating from the tropics or other high-humidity areas, often absorbed from the surface of warm oceans. This phenomenon might have been the source of intense rainfall in Greenland, potentially triggering a chain reaction that destabilized freshwater ecosystems in the region.
Uncertain future of lakes
Scientists now need to monitor the long-term consequences of these changes. It is unknown whether the lakes will revert to their original state or how quickly this might occur. Atmospheric phenomena, local ecosystems, and the global climate clearly interact with one another.
The coming years will reveal whether the lakes of western Greenland can withstand the influence of atmospheric rivers or if they will undergo permanent changes. These observations will be crucial for understanding the ability of ecosystems to self-regulate in the face of rapid climate changes.
