Sensitivity of the carbon cycle in the Arctic to climate change

摘要: The recent warming in the Arctic is affecting a broad spectrum of physical, ecological, and human/cultural systems that may be irreversible on century time scales have potential to cause rapid changes earth system. response carbon cycle climate major issue global concern, yet there has not been comprehensive review status contemporary its change. This designed clarify key uncertainties vulnerabilities ongoing climatic While it clear are substantial stocks Arctic, also significant associated with magnitude organic matter contained permafrost storage methane hydrates beneath both subterranean submerged Arctic. In context cycle, this demonstrates plays an important role dynamics CO2 CH4. Studies suggest sink for atmospheric between 0 0.8 Pg C/yr decades, which 0% 25% net land/ocean flux during 1990s. source CH4 atmosphere (between 32 112 Tg CH4/yr), primarily because large area wetlands throughout region. Analyses date indicate sensitivity remainder 21st highly uncertain. To improve capability assess projected change, we recommend (1) integrated regional studies conducted link observations processes likely influence those dynamics, (2) understanding gained from these incorporated into uncoupled fully coupled carbon-climate modeling efforts. (Less)