geomorphology

  • Permafrost Thaw Could Unleash Long-Buried Pathogens and Radioactive Waste

    Permafrost Thaw Could Unleash Long-Buried Pathogens and Radioactive Waste

    Across the northern reaches of our planet, things are so cold that nearly 23 million square kilometres of earth remain frozen solid year-round. But that’s changing as the climate warms, and as that permafrost thaws, it releases trapped greenhouse gases from the soil. Scientists warn that radioactive waste and dangerous bacteria and viruses could emerge,…