What are the consequences of melting permafrost?
The extent of permafrost is predicted to decrease by 20 to 35 percent in the northern hemisphere by the mid-21st century, while the depth of permafrost is predicted to decrease by 30 to 50 percent by 2080. The melting of permafrost weakens the stability of the ground, which can significantly affect local infrastructure. In addition, there is concern that methane from decomposed animal and plant matter that is currently locked away under permafrost will be released as the permafrost thaws. Methane is a potent greenhouse gas, and its release could create a positive feedback loop in which increased temperatures lead to methane release, which in turn drives temperatures even higher.
