Iceberg twice the size of New York City set to break off Antarctic ice shelf Scientists are unsure what this could mean for the future health and stability of the Brunt Ice Shelf. Previously stable for about 35 years, a crack in Antarctica’s Brunt Ice Shelf recently started accelerating northward as fast as 4 kilometers […]
The Menace of Deep-Sea Mining: Something Wicked This Way Comes
“A new chapter of Earth pillage is in the works: the commercial venture of deep-sea mining. The deep sea lies 200 meters below sea level into the abyssal depths and comprises roughly 65 percent of Earth’s surface. It is being encroached by a nexus of nation-states and industries slavering over its “mind-boggling quantities of untapped […]
NCA 4: Northeast
The distinct seasonality of the Northeast’s climate supports a diverse natural landscape adapted to the extremes of cold, snowy winters and warm to hot, humid summers. This natural landscape provides the economic and cultural foundation for many rural communities, which are largely supported by a diverse range of agricultural, tourism, and natural resource-dependent industries. The […]
NCA 4: Oceans and Marine Resources
Americans rely on ocean ecosystems for food, jobs, recreation, energy, and other vital services. Increased atmospheric carbon dioxide levels change ocean conditions through three main factors: warming seas, ocean acidification, and deoxygenation. These factors are transforming ocean ecosystems, and these transformations are already impacting the U.S. economy and coastal communities, cultures, and businesses. While climate-driven […]
NCA 4: Coastal Effects
U.S. coasts are dynamic environments and economically vibrant places to live and work. As of 2013, coastal shoreline counties were home to 133.2 million people, or 42% of the population. The coasts are economic engines that support jobs in defense, fishing, transportation, and tourism industries; contribute substantially to the U.S. gross domestic product; and serve […]