Earth’s strongest ocean current could slow down by 20% by 2050 in a high emissions future
GuardianMAR 11
The slowing of the ACC is an unprecedented threat to global climate stability. It could lead to more extreme weather events, accelerated global warming, and disruption of marine ecosystems. The weakening current may also allow invasive species to reach Antarctica and threaten its delicate food web.
Previous research suggested the ACC would actually accelerate due to ocean warming. Further observational studies are needed in this poorly observed region to definitively determine the current's response to climate change, as there is a possibility that limiting carbon emissions could prevent the projected slowdown.