Local evidence for climate change is there: droughts and heatwaves in July. However, there are unseen, far more significant changes in areas most of us will never visit, such as at Marion Island and the Southern Ocean which surrounds Antarctica.
Local evidence for climate change is there: droughts and heatwaves in July. However, there are unseen, far more significant changes in areas most of us will never visit, such as at Marion Island and the Southern Ocean which surrounds Antarctica.
Hidden in the sub- Antarctic, approximately 1 770km from Port Elizabeth, Marion Island is untouched by humans and has been a touchstone for scientific observation since 1965.
Through studying such a remote environment, scientists are able to analyse the specific effects of climate change on ecosystems.
Prof Ian Meiklejohn of Rhodes University geography department and fellow researchers monitor changes in the island’s landscape to measure the impacts of our climate.
At one time, parts of Marion Island remained frozen throughout the year, but warming temperatures have resulted in melting.
An increase in landslide and mudslides could be linked to the loss of ground stability, once provided by ice. Not only are the landscapes shifting, but our oceans are disturbed by changing temperatures.
The Southern Ocean is currently the world’s largest sink for carbon dioxide. Its large expanse and cool temperatures effectively dissolve greenhouse gases.
However, as water temperatures increase, its ability to do this diminishes. Consequently, more carbon dioxide is released into the atmosphere.
Animal species are also vulnerable. “There are a number of indications that global climate change is affecting the biology in the oceans around Antarctica,” says William Froneman, Rhodes University marine biologist.
Carbon dioxide acidifies ocean water, causing conditions that are detrimental for small but vital species. For example, the shells of some types of oceanic snails are no longer forming properly.
Although these animals lack the charm of the polar bear or penguin, they are an essential link in the food chain as they ultimately guarantee the survival of other larger sub-Antarctic species.
Perhaps what we cannot see may prove more ominous for our earth. “Our pollution can be recorded on the other side of the world,” says Meiklejohn, encouraging us to think about or daily habits.
Through thinking globally but taking action locally, like cycling instead of motoring, we can protect the habitats of the most delicate but critical species.
