By Obiabin Onukwugha
The Climate Africa Media Initiative Center (CAMIC), an environmental advocacy body has called for urgent global attention and action to address the high rate of ice melting in the polar regions.
The advocacy body notes that as temperatures continue to rise due to climate change, there had been rapid loss of ice in the Arctic and Antarctic which poses severe risks to global ecosystems, sea levels, and weather patterns.
CAMIC, in a press statement by its Chief Growth Officer, Pius Alabi, made available to NatureNews in Abuja on Thursday, urged governments, industries, and individuals to take immediate and sustained actions to mitigate this crisis and explore innovative solutions to restore icebergs and stabilize our planet’s climate.
It said scientific studies have shown that the polar ice caps are melting at unprecedented rates, leading to rising sea levels, coastal erosion, and the disruption of marine ecosystems.
“The loss of reflective ice surfaces also contributes to a vicious cycle of warming, as more sunlight is absorbed by the Earth’s surface rather than being reflected back into space.
“The most critical step in slowing ice melt is to reduce global greenhouse gas emissions. CAMIC supports the transition to renewable energy sources, increased energy efficiency, and the adoption of sustainable agricultural and industrial practices to lower carbon footprints.
“Protecting and restoring forests, wetlands, and other natural carbon sinks can help absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, reducing the rate of warming and, in turn, slowing ice melt,” the statement read in part.
CAMIC also called for global cooperation to promote sustainable lifestyles, including reducing energy consumption, minimizing waste, and supporting policies that prioritize environmental conservation.
It further noted that exploring bold and innovative ideas to restore lost iceberg could cool the Earth.
“By adding iron or other nutrients to specific ocean areas, we could stimulate the growth of phytoplankton, which absorb CO2 and could help to cool surface temperatures. This, in turn, could slow down ice melt and potentially contribute to ice regeneration.
“Using reflective materials on ice surfaces or engaging in cloud seeding to increase cloud cover over polar regions could help reduce the amount of solar radiation reaching the ice, thus slowing the melting process.
“CAMIC urges governments, organizations, and individuals to come together in this critical fight against climate change. We cannot afford to wait; the time to act is now. By reducing emissions, supporting innovative technologies, and embracing sustainable practices, we can halt the destructive path we are on and work towards restoring the Earth’s natural balance,” the statement added.
CAMIC is a non-governmental organization dedicated to advancing environmental sustainability and combating climate change.
Through research, advocacy, and collaborative initiatives, CAMIC seeks to contribute to a more sustainable and resilient planet for current and future generations.