Innovative Pumps Boost Arctic Ice Thickness by 20 Inches
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📰 The quick summary: New technology from Real Ice successfully thickens Arctic sea ice by pumping seawater onto its surface, offering a potential way to preserve this critical ecosystem and slow global warming.
📈 One key stat: Arctic sea ice extent has decreased by 40% since 1979, with the oldest and thickest ice declining by 95%, threatening global climate stability.
💬 One key quote: “If Real Ice comes up with this genius plan to continue the ice freeze longer, I think that would be very beneficial for future generations,” said Talia Maksagak, Executive Director of the Kitikmeot Chamber of Commerce.
1️⃣ The big picture: Researchers at Real Ice are developing innovative technology to help preserve rapidly melting Arctic sea ice by pumping seawater onto its surface to thicken it. Their largest field test yet uses eight pumps across nearly half a square mile in Cambridge Bay, Canada. The technology aims to counteract the concerning decline of Arctic ice, which reflects 80% of the sun’s energy back into space and plays a crucial role in regulating global temperatures. Without this ice, the dark ocean absorbs more heat, accelerating warming and disrupting weather patterns worldwide.
2️⃣ Why is this good news: Initial tests show promising results – pumping just 10 inches of ocean water on top of the ice boosts growth from the bottom by another 20 inches, creating ice up to 80 inches thick. The technology is relatively simple and affordable at $5,000 per pump. Models predict that 500,000 pumps could rethicken about 386,000 square miles of sea ice annually. The process appears environmentally safe so far, with the Nunavut Impact Review Board finding no significant impact at research sites.
3️⃣ What’s next: Real Ice must first confirm through this year’s tests that the thickened ice successfully lasts longer through summer months. An independent environmental risk assessment will evaluate potential impacts on marine life, especially regarding underwater noise. Cambridge University researchers estimate four more years of research are needed before recommending widespread deployment. The team also needs to determine sustainable funding mechanisms, potentially through international climate funds or cooling credits.
Read the full story here: Grist – New technologies are helping to regrow Arctic sea ice
