Antarctica could lose 20% of ice by 2100

Scientists from several international institutes predict that by 2100, Antarctica could lose about 20% of its ice, accelerating global sea level rise.

The estimates take into account increasing global warming and enhanced ice evaporation in the Antarctic region. According to researchers, further melting will catastrophically affect coastal ecosystems and could lead to changes in weather patterns across the planet.

Ice loss will reduce the natural 'refrigerator' effect that Antarctica traditionally exerts on the global climate system. As a result, a significant rise in sea level is expected, and water resource management in various parts of the world will become more complex.

Context

Previous estimates indicated a slower ice decline, but new models account for more accurate climate changes.