Problem
Destabilization of ocean currents
Other Names:
Disruption of gulf streams Incidence:
In the 1990s, researchers developed models indicating that global warming could result in increases in fresh water in the oceans as a result of progressive melting of polar icecaps. The models suggested that, combined with the change in temperature, these could, for example, trigger a rapid collapse of the Atlantic Gulf Stream. As a consequence this conveyor of warm temperatures to northern Europe would no longer operate, resulting in severe temperature reductions, making the weather comparable to that of North America at the same latitudes. Controversy surrounded the exact thresholds and triggers for this phenomenon.
Broader Problems:
Vulnerability of marine ecosystemsDisruption of the hydrological cycle Narrower Problems:
Disruption to climate from La NiñaDisruption to climate from El NiñoDisruption to climate from changes to Gulf Stream Aggravates:
Global cooling Subject(s):
Oceanography → Oceanography Societal Problems → Instability
Related UN Sustainable Development Goals:
Problem Type:
D: Detailed problems Date of last update
17.06.2019 – 18:16 CEST