River inflows to the Arctic Ocean have increased over the last 30 years due to ice melting and increased precipitation. Effects of increased freshwater input to the ocean include a greater absorption of heat, which in turn increases ice melt and glacier calving (ACIA 2004; IPCC 2007). Thermohaline circulation is also affected by these changes which may alter circulation patterns within the ocean. (Arnell N. 2005). Projected global warming during the 21st century will alter the wind and pressure patterns and the ocean circulation system. (International Arctic Science Committee 2010).
Find out more:
- AMAP, 2012. Arctic Climate Issues 2011: Changes in Arctic Snow, Water, Ice and Permafrost. SWIPA 2011 Overview Report. AMAPs 2011 assessment of the Arctic Cryosphere (the SWIPA assessment) updates information presented in the 2004/5 Arctic Climate Impact Assessment.
- International Arctic Science Committee (2010) Ocean processes of climatic importance in the Arctic
- Arnell (2005) Implications of climate change for freshwater inflows to the Arctic Ocean. Journal of Geophysical Research: Atmospheres (1984–2012)
- Arctic Climate Impact Assessment 2004
- IPCC 2007 Polar regions (Arctic and Antarctic)