The Arctic is warming faster than the rest of our world
In short: While most people view the Arctic as a remote wilderness, scientists see it as a critical indicator of global health. Because it warms at an accelerated rate compared to other regions, tracking its changes from planes and satellites provides a vital pulse on the planet's shifting climate.
Carbon scientist Peter Griffith leads research efforts to monitor these rapid environmental shifts. Every summer, his team travels to Alaska and Canada to conduct multi-platform observations. By combining data from ground stations, aircraft, and satellites, researchers can build a comprehensive picture of how the Arctic is reacting to global warming. These expeditions specifically target regions in northwestern Canada and Alaska to gather data on Arctic-Boreal vulnerabilities. The research team utilizes a variety of sensors to capture diverse environmental signals across these northern landscapes.
Griffith's work involves sophisticated technologies like LiDAR airborne surveys and synthetic aperture radar (SAR) to map land, vegetation, and ice. These tools allow scientists to observe complex systems—such as the carbon budget of tidal wetlands and estuaries—that are essential for understanding our planet's biogeochemical cycles. The ABoVE project includes specific surveys using L-band and P-band airborne synthetic aperture radar. These efforts have been ongoing since at least 2012 to provide long-term monitoring of the land surface.
His research highlights the interconnectedness of these regions, from North American coastal waters to the boreal forests. Beyond raw data collection, Griffith emphasizes the importance of 'scientist-stakeholder relationships.' This means that for carbon data products to be effective, they must be shared and utilized by a broad community of practice. By bridging the gap between high-level NASA science and practical application, researchers aim to provide the necessary tools to address the vulnerabilities of our changing environment. Griffith has also contributed to research regarding carbon budgets in shelf waters and tidal wetlands across Eastern North America. His work includes identifying missing pieces needed to model complex Arctic-Boreal puzzles.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: #EarthDayAtHome with Carbon Scientist Peter Griffith
- Also: Peter C Griffith - Sciences and Exploration Directorate
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