Extending that into a doomsday scenario is quite another. Even if the hole was growing in a consistent and predictable manner, it will seek a new equilibrium point. Painting a picture of an unraveling mess that dooms us all is just creative writing. Nature can put the entire human pollutant contribution to shame with just one eruption. It's supreme arrogance to claim we have so much influence on this planet that we can destroy it.
Priorities are an interesting thing.
If you claim infinite priority, then you can claim infinite resources. If the world is doomed, then spare nothing to save it. But, perhaps you just don't believe me. Replies to Jack Ferman, Fair Peace, Anonymous etc.