Permafrost is a critical component of the global climate system because its thaw releases vast stores of carbon dioxide and methane into the atmosphere, amplifying global warming and destabilizing the ground in Arctic and mountain regions. This side event summarized the state of knowledge on permafrost thaw; the potential carbon emissions anticipated under present warming trends; and the status of efforts to monitor, measure, and account for these emissions. Researchers further discussed ecosystem tipping points now unfolding across the permafrost region; these are projected to worsen if global temperatures approach 2°C. Speakers included Dr. Hugues Lantuit, Alfred Wegener Institute (AWI); Fabian Seemann, PhD Candidate at AWI; and Dr. Frank Martin Seifert, European Space Agency.
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