Scientists Looked at Images from Space to See How Fast Antarctica is Turning Green
Recent satellite images show that parts of Antarctica are turning green at an alarming rate. The region is experiencing extreme heat events, leading to a rapid increase in plant life. According to new research, the area covered by vegetation has grown dramatically between 1986 and 2021, with an accelerated rate of change in recent years.
The study used satellite data to quantify the rate of vegetation growth, particularly on the Antarctic Peninsula. The area of likely vegetation cover increased from 0.863 km² in 1986 to 11.947 km² in 2021, with a significant acceleration in the rate of change between 2016 and 2021.
This greening trend is attributed to warmer and wetter conditions, which are favorable for plant growth. The Southern Annular Mode, which has been strongly positive, has contributed to higher moisture availability, leading to increased productivity and expansion of existing vegetation.
