The summer season, during which the ice retreats far offshore, increases from 60 days to 150 days, this models predicts. At the moment sea ice retreats from the coastline of countries in the Arctic by between 150km and 200km. By 2050 the sea ice might retreat up to 800km as a result of global warming. Another model forecasts that 80 per cent of sea ice will be lost by 2050. Sir Wilfrid Laurier in The Arctic Japan Marine Science and Technology Center Mr Tveitdal said the loss of ice in the Arctic could lead to a sudden, acceleration, of global warming.
Ice reflects radiation or heat from the sun back into space.
The retreat and loss of ice in the Arctic will have harmful impacts for many of the species living in the region. Polar bears need sea ice so they can hunt for seals. A retreat and loss of sea ice could make it harder for these animals to get enough food. Those species of seal that need ice for resting, pup rearing and molting, will also be at risk. Danish Polar Center photograph Climate change in the Arctic is expected to alter the speed and patterns of ocean currents which in turn will impact fish stocks.