Why would Norway, a country that lies partially in the Arctic Circle, speak to the issue of climate change in New Mexico? Because warming in the Arctic affects weather around the globe, explains Mr. Kim J. Holmén, Research Director for the Norwegian Polar Institute.
As Mr. Holmén explains, ice is white and it reflects sunlight, thereby reflecting solar energy. But as the Arctic warms, Arctic ice is melting, exposing larger swaths of water. Ocean water is much darker than ice and therefore absorbs more solar energy, causing more warming.
Wind is caused by differences in temperature. Arctic warming reduces the temperature difference between Arctic air and air near the Equator. Changing that temperature balance affects the jet stream, resulting less wind worldwide and causing large-scale climate change.
January 2011 measurements found the lowest levels of Arctic sea ice since measurements have been taken. And in the last 50 years, subpolar species now outnumber polar species in the Arctic, reversing the balance of the previous 2,000 years.
Additional reporting on the luncheon, including a link to the ambassador’s appearance on Santa Fe radio last week, is available here.
Also scheduled for today: Ambassador Strommen will meet with Mayor Cross at 2:00 p.m, and he, Mr. Holmen and others will attend a legislative reception at Rio Chama at 5:00 p.m.