Rapid surge in global warming mainly due to reduced planetary albedo
Alfred Wegener Institute (AWI)
Published: 5 December 2024
In 2023, global temperatures surged unexpectedly. AWI researchers link this to a record drop in Earth's reflectivity (albedo), caused by fewer low-level clouds, likely intensified by global warming—raising urgency for climate action.
Keywords: albedo, low clouds, global warming, AWI, 2023 heat records, cloud cover
Are particle emissions from offshore wind farms harmful for blue mussels?
Alfred Wegener Institute (AWI)
Published: 18 December 2024
AWI researchers found that particles from eroded offshore wind turbine blades can be absorbed by blue mussels, impacting their metabolism. This raises concerns about potential environmental and human health risks in wind farm aquaculture zones.
Keywords: offshore wind, blue mussels, rotor blade erosion, metal uptake, AWI, aquaculture, marine pollution
Marked decrease in Arctic pressure ridges
Alfred Wegener Institute (AWI)
Published: 6 January 2025
Arctic pressure ridges are shrinking in height and frequency due to the loss of multiyear sea ice, according to a new AWI study. This decline affects ecosystems, polar bear habitats, and ice dynamics, raising concerns for the region’s stability.
Keywords: Arctic sea ice, pressure ridges, multiyear ice, AWI, sea-ice dynamics, ecosystem impacts
