Losing Ice

Emperor penguins

Have you had someone give you a blank look when you've mentioned something about the climate warming? Even a response such as, "It's been cold here this month." or "Ha! Look at all the snow this winter."

I have.

Sometimes it's worth reminding that person that it's the global average that's important, not just close to home. We all share this blue rock that's spinning through space. At other times, changing the subject may be a better choice.

Certainly, climate change does not affect all areas of the Earth equally. And nowhere is the temperature rising faster and the environment changing more directionally than in the polar and arctic alpine regions--places that greatly influence global environmental patterns. This article from Inside Climate News about Antarctic Sea ice loss is a reminder of what's at stake. Whole ecosystems.