John, about 40% of Arctic sea ice has melted since 1979. Without urgent action to tackle climate change, scientists predict Arctic sea ice could disappear around 2050, wiping out polar bears and other animals that need sea ice to survive.
We also need Arctic sea ice to fight climate change. That’s because sea ice reflects 50-70% of sunlight, while ocean water absorbs 90% of sunlight. The more sea ice we lose, the more Earth warms.
While the race to save Arctic sea ice is urgent, there is something we can do about it. EDF research shows that slashing methane and carbon pollution right now is our best hope to save sea ice.
The EDF study shows that:
- Speed matters: Today’s methane pollution will cause 80 times more warming than an equal amount of carbon pollution over the next 20 years. That means slashing methane pollution now is the fastest way to reduce warming.
- The odds are good: Rapid methane reductions and net-zero carbon pollution by 2050 increase the odds of saving Arctic sea ice from nearly 0% to 80%.
- We know the biggest polluters: One of the easiest ways to slash methane pollution is for the U.S. oil and gas industry to plug the estimated one million abandoned wells that are leaking methane.
- It’s doable and affordable: We have the technology needed to reduce methane, and 66% of those reductions could be achieved at zero net cost to industry.
We’re rallying climate activists like you to call for bold and immediate action on methane. We need the strongest protections possible, and we need everyone to do their part. Please sign our petition today to urge the EPA to cut methane pollution and protect our climate.
Thank you for fighting for a safer future,
Anne Russell Gregory
Manager, Online Member Engagement
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