Arctic records hottest year since 1900 amid accelerating climate crisis

Al Jazeera
Al Jazeera
1h ago
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NOAA reports record Arctic temperatures and ice loss; Arctic nations plan expanded fossil fuel projects despite climate threats.
Arctic records hottest year since 1900 amid accelerating climate crisis
A What happened
The annual Arctic Report Card from NOAA shows that between October 2024 and September 2025, Arctic surface air temperatures reached their highest levels since 1900, continuing a decade of rising regional heat. Winter sea ice hit historic lows in March 2025, and June snow cover dropped to half of levels seen six decades ago. Despite these environmental warnings, Arctic countries such as the US, Russia, and Norway are pressing forward with expanded oil and mineral extraction plans. This expansion conflicts with growing global public demand for stronger climate action and recent International Court of Justice rulings holding polluters accountable for environmental harm.
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Key insights

  • 1

    Arctic warming outpaces global averages: The Arctic's temperature rise far exceeds the global average, accelerating ice melt and amplifying climate feedback loops that influence global weather patterns.

  • 2

    Geopolitical interests drive resource development despite climate risks: Arctic states prioritize energy and resource extraction projects, highlighting a tension between economic ambitions and environmental imperatives in a warming region.

  • 3

    Science communication and policy face politicization: Federal agencies' removal of climate change terminology indicates politicization of environmental science, complicating policy responses and public understanding.

Takeaways

The Arctic's unprecedented warming highlights urgent climate challenges. Yet, geopolitical and economic drivers are pushing expanded fossil fuel exploitation, complicating mitigation efforts and legal accountability.

Topics

Climate & Environment Climate World & Politics Policy & Regulation International Affairs Business & Markets Energy & Commodities