Black-carbon footprint
Soot, or black-carbon pollution, is a growing problem in Antarctica, where researchers say that it’s accelerating climate-driven snow melt. Its main cause: the rise in Antarctic tourism and scientific activities on the continent. According to a new study, each Antarctic tourist is effectively responsible for melting as much as 75 tonnes of snow, while research stations, which are often fuel-intensive and operate year-round, have an even greater impact. The soot, which is produced by the exhaust of cruise ships, aircraft, all-terrain vehicles and diesel generators, is deposited on and darkens the snow, reducing its ability to reflect sunlight and hence increasing its energy absorption. A much smaller amount drifts in on the wind from other parts of the world. As Antarctica becomes increasingly accessible, bringing an increased human presence, there’s a growing awareness that we must look for ways to mitigate or avoid human impact and ensure that activities are well managed.