Nitrous Oxide Poses Fresh Threat to the Arctic – Scientific American

Article Synopsis – The thawing of the Arctic permafrost is releasing a potent greenhouse gas into the atmosphere that has rarely been considered as a threat despite its tremendous potential to drive global warming. Nitrous oxide is roughly 300 times more powerful in warming the climate than carbon dioxide on a 100-year time horizon. Despite this fact, little research has been conducted on nitrous oxide as a source of warming. New research has shown that as the Arctic permafrost thaws, the amount of Nitrous oxide that could potentially be released is equal to the amount found in the tropical forests- which are the largest source of terrestrial nitrous oxide in the world. To read the actual article click here.

By Sharon Gray June 1, 2017 Newsletter