A new scientific study has warned that the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), one of the most important ocean currents regulating the Earth's climate, may be approaching a dangerous tipping point as a result of climate change and rising carbon emissions.
This current works by transporting warm water from tropical regions to the North Atlantic, while cold water returns southward, contributing to heat distribution and maintaining global climate stability. However, the accelerated melting of ice in Greenland leads to large amounts of freshwater flowing into the ocean, weakening the current's flow that relies on salty and cold water.
According to the study, the likelihood of the current entering an irreversible collapse path is about 10% even if emissions stop immediately, while it could rise to 80% by 2100 if emissions continue at current rates, with more pessimistic projections suggesting a 100% chance in some models.
Researchers warn that "the collapse of this system could lead to rising sea levels on the eastern United States coasts, a significant drop in temperatures in Northern Europe, along with widespread disruptions in global weather patterns including droughts, floods, and more severe storms."
Despite differing views among scientists regarding when the collapse might occur, they agree that the current is experiencing a continuous decline, emphasizing that urgently reducing carbon emissions remains the most important option to mitigate the risks of these climatic consequences.