"KING GEORGE ISLAND, Antarctica — Ahead of international climate talks, U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres visited globally-important Antarctica, where ice that’s been frozen for millions of years is melting due to human-caused global warming, to send the message that “we absolutely need to act immediately.”
“What happens in Antarctica doesn’t stay in Antarctica,” Guterres said. In addition to reflecting lots of sunlight away from the Earth, Antarctica regulates the planet’s climate because its ice and cold waters drive major ocean currents. When massive amounts of ice melt, it raises sea levels and changes things like salinity and the habitats of ocean animals.
At the annual Conference of the Parties, known as COP, nations are supposed to strengthen commitments to addressing climate change. But so far these have not been nearly enough to slow global warming, caused by greenhouse gas emissions that result from the burning of fossil fuels. "
Isabella O’Malley and Alexandre Plaza report for the Associated Press November 24, 2023.
SEE ALSO:
"COP28: UAE Planned To Use Climate Talks To Make Oil Deals" (BBC News)
"The Many Contrasts Of Oil-Rich UAE, Host Of The Global Climate Talks" (Washington Post)
"Biden To Skip World Leaders’ Summit At COP28 Climate Talks In Dubai" (Washington Post)
"FAQ: Annual Climate Negotiations Are About To Start. Do They Matter?" (NPR)
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