Scientists study impact of global warming on Arctic ice cap

Catlin Group Limited is sponsoring a group of international scientists attempting to obtain the most accurate measurements of the thickness of the Arctic Ocean sea ice.
The pioneering survey will begin in February, led by British polar explorer Pen Hadow.
“As a specialty insurance and reinsurance company, the potential effects of global warming will have a direct impact on Catlin’s business,” Stephen Catlin, chief executive of Catlin Group Limited, said in a Catlin release. “The Catlin Arctic Survey will produce vital information that can be used by all those who must plan for the potential effects of global warming.”
Scientists say Arctic sea ice is important because it acts as a reflective heat shield, reflecting 80% of incoming solar energy, according to a Lloyd’s release.
But it is disappearing quickly, allowing the sea water below to absorb energy resulting in thermal expansion, unpredictable weather patterns and rising sea levels, the release notes.
“Last year’s summer melt saw Arctic sea ice plummet to its lowest level since satellite measurements began,” Lloyd’s notes in the release. “The permanent ice, present year-round, is declining at a rate of at least 300,000 square kilometres (116,000 square miles) per decade, according to NASA. Current estimates of when the majority of the Arctic Ocean is likely to be ice free range from the year 2100 to just four years from now.”