Atmospheric blocking slows ocean-driven melting of Greenland’s largest glacier tongue
Alfred Wegener Institute (AWI)
Published: 19 September 2024
AWI researchers found cooling Atlantic water under Greenland’s 79° N Glacier from 2018–2021, slowing its melt despite long-term warming trends—likely due to atmospheric blocks altering ocean currents. This impacts future sea-level rise predictions.
Keywords: Greenland, glacier melt, ocean currents, AWI, climate change, sea level, Atlantic water
Citizen scientists help discover microplastics along the entire German coastline
Alfred Wegener Institute (AWI)
Published: 25 September 2024
The “Microplastic Detectives” project analyzed 2.2 tons of sand from 71 German beaches, revealing widespread but relatively low large microplastic pollution. It highlights the need for stricter plastic policies and continued citizen-based monitoring.
Keywords: microplastics, plastic pollution, citizen science, German coast, AWI, environmental monitoring, coastal research
Heavy Metals in the Ocean Become More Toxic
Alfred Wegener Institute (AWI)
Published: 10 October 2024
Climate change worsens the spread and impact of toxic trace metals in oceans. Rising temperatures, acidification, and oxygen loss increase their bioavailability, risking marine and human health. More research and better regulation are urgently needed.
Keywords: trace metals, ocean pollution, mercury, marine health, GEOMAR, AWI
