Sensitivity of the carbon cycle in the Arctic to climate change

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 and have the potential to cause rapid changes in the earth system. The response of the carbon cycle of the Arctic to changes in climate is a major issue of global concern, yet there has not been a comprehensive review of the status of the contemporary carbon cycle of the Arctic and its response to climate change. This review is designed to clarify key uncertainties and vulnerabilities in the response of the carbon cycle of the Arctic to ongoing climatic change. While it is clear that there are substantial stocks of carbon in the Arctic, there are…

• NS
  National Science Foundation

  Award: 0531047
• IA
  International Arctic Science Committee
• NO
  National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
• UG
  U.S. Geological Survey
• IA
  International Arctic Research Center, University of Alaska, Fairbanks