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From the Antarctic Peninsula to Alabama’s Cahaba River – The Vital Aspects of Climate Change
Date: February 24, 2019
Time: 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
Event Description
Presenter Dr. James McClintock The Antarctic Peninsula is the most rapidly warming region of our planet. Glaciers are in retreat, major coastal ice sheets are disintegrating, and the annual sea ice is declining. Marine ecosystems are being dramatically restructured. Populations of key species including krill and Adélie penguins are disappearing. Warmer weather species, such as Gentoo penguins, chinstrap penguins, and elephant seals, are exhibiting range extensions as temperatures warm. And, for the first time, deep-water king crabs are migrating up the Antarctic slope where they are threatening to decimate vulnerable shelf communities harboring species that may unlock cures to human disease. These dramatic alterations in the Antarctic marine ecosystem speak loudly to the need to address global climate change. Moreover, change in Antarctic ocean currents influence climate patterns in the northern hemisphere, including those in Alabama. Fortuitously, the amazing story of the discovery and mitigation of the hole in the ozone over Antarctica offers a poignant model of hope for the future. This special program is $10 for non-members and $5 for members. Reservations are required. To reserve your spot, call 256-237-6766 or register via ExploreAMAG.org.
