Skeptical Science New Research for Week #10 2025

Greenland Ice Sheet: Not Just Melting

A recent study in Geophysical Research Letters reveals a surprising twist in the Greenland ice sheet saga. While atmospheric rivers (ARs) are notorious for causing extreme melt events, they can also bring heavy snowfall. Researchers found that a powerful AR in March 2022 dumped enough snow to significantly delay summer melt and even offset 8% of Greenland's annual mass loss! This suggests ARs may play a more complex role in the ice sheet's fate than previously thought, potentially even contributing to mass gain in the future.

The Far-Right and Solar Power: A Complicated Relationship

A fascinating study in Environmental Politics examines far-right parties' positions on solar energy. Analyzing manifestos from various European parties, researchers discovered a surprising lack of ideological consistency. Rather than outright opposition, their stance on solar seems driven by strategic considerations, shifting over time and between countries. This nuanced perspective offers valuable insights into the complexities of far-right climate obstruction.

AI and Climate Governance: A Democratic Dilemma

As artificial intelligence (AI) gains traction in climate policy, a WIREs Climate Change article raises critical concerns about potential democratic pitfalls. While acknowledging AI's promise, the authors warn that it could narrow policy options, exclude diverse voices, and erode accountability. They propose four principles for "bounded application" of AI, emphasizing the importance of public deliberation, non-quantifiable knowledge, and domain-specific applications.

China's Low-Carbon Transition: Geopolitical Implications

A Frontiers in Environmental Science study explores the complex interplay between China's low-carbon economic development (LCED) and geopolitical risk (GPR). While GPR can hinder LCED progress, it can also catalyze renewable energy development. Conversely, LCED can mitigate GPR by reducing reliance on energy imports and promoting international cooperation. The study highlights the potential of LCED as a tool for both tackling climate change and easing geopolitical tensions.

Arctic Adaptation: More Than Just Technical Challenges

A Current Opinion in Environmental Sustainability article delves into the social barriers to adaptation in the Arctic. The authors argue that challenges faced by Indigenous Peoples, such as impacts on livelihoods and culture, are not merely technical but deeply political. Colonialism, capitalism, and geopolitical interests intertwine to create structural inequalities that hinder adaptation efforts. The study emphasizes the need to address these systemic issues for effective climate adaptation in the Arctic.

Public Perception of Climate Change and Health in the US

The Yale Program on Climate Change Communication and the George Mason University Center for Climate Change Communication released their "Climate Change in the American Mind" report. The survey reveals that while awareness of climate change's health impacts is growing, many Americans still perceive it as a distant threat. While 39% believe Americans' health is currently being harmed, only 16% think their own health is affected. This disconnect underscores the challenge of translating broad concern into personal action.

Data Centers and Electricity Demand

Reports of skyrocketing electricity demand from data centers have sparked concerns about strained power grids and climate impacts. A report by Koomey Analytics and the Bipartisan Policy Center examines these concerns, providing a deeper understanding of data center load growth drivers. The report delves into the nuances of this issue, separating hype from reality.

From Academic Papers to Policy Recommendations

This week's New Research also includes a wealth of studies on diverse topics, ranging from the drivers of wet-bulb globe temperature changes to the impact of biodegradable plastics on greenhouse gas emissions. Numerous open access papers offer valuable insights for researchers, policymakers, and anyone interested in the latest climate science.

Explore the full list of 101 articles from 47 journals to delve deeper into the latest climate research.