The Arctic freshwater system in a changing climate
The World Climate Research Programme (WCRP) Climate and Cryosphere (CliC) Project, the Arctic Monitoring and Assessment Programme (AMAP) and the International Arctic Science Committee (IASC) have released a summary report, titled 'The Arctic Freshwater System in a Changing Climate,' which outlines the effects of the changing Arctic atmosphere on the region and beyond. The report consists of 11 sections that address, inter alia: why the Arctic Freshwater System is important; ways in which climate change is affecting the Arctic Freshwater System; and impacts of the changing water cycle on Arctic landscapes and ecosystems, as well as on the coast and nearshore environments. According to the publication, changing freshwater flows into the oceans are affecting ocean currents and ocean biology. It estimates that the ability of the Arctic to provide the ecosystem services on which humans rely will be impacted, and the changing hydrological cycle will influence the role of the Arctic as a store of carbon. The report concludes that changes to the Arctic Freshwater System will have important positive and negative implications for the economy in the Arctic.