Ice to ocean: Understanding the worldwide consequences of Antarctic ice movements

Althea Ileto

December 12, 2023

In recent years, the world has witnessed significant events as Antarctica released icebergs. This occurrence not only marks a significant change in the Antarctic landscape but also raises concerns about its potential impact on climate patterns, with far-reaching consequences of climate change.

On December 1, scientists boarded the RRS Sir David Attenborough, collected seawater samples around the colossal A23a mega iceberg. The world's largest iceberg that is currently drifting away from Antarctica. Footage released by the British Antarctic Survey showcases the research ship navigating the outskirts of the said iceberg, providing an opportunity for scientific investigation.

The “largest current iceberg”, A23a has held the title several times since 1980’s. It spans to almost 4,000 square kilometers (1,500 square miles), and surpasses New York City threefold, which equates to 19 Manilas combined. A23a’s title was occasionally stolen by other icebergs including the A68 in 2017, and A76 in 2022, both were larger but short-lived.

An iceberg with such size is a rare occasion which prompted heightened interest from the scientific community. Researchers will closely monitor its trajectory, leveraging the data collected to enhance the understanding of the dynamics driving icebergs and their potential impact on global climate patterns.

The connection between the A23a iceberg and the Philippines may seem distant, but the repercussions of such events are interconnected on a global scale. As icebergs of such magnitude enter the Southern Ocean and melt, they can contribute to rising sea levels. 

The Philippines being highly exposed to extreme weather events, such as typhoons and floods, with increasing frequency and intensity over the years, is considered one of the most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. The main hazards posing risks identified as riverine flooding, coastal inundation, and surface water flooding. 

Pulse Asia conducted a survey in September 2023 unraveling that 65% of Filipino adults observed a significant climate change impact in their communities over the past three years, with only 11% reporting a small change. While the majority of 71% considered climate change a significant threat to themselves and their families, while 68% and 69% viewed it as dangerous to the environment and the country respectively. 

The survey also indicated varying levels of understanding about climate change, with 44% claiming sufficient knowledge and 40% having limited awareness. Notably, 46% attributed calamities to human-made environmental destruction.

The drift of Antarctica's largest iceberg serves as a stark symbol of the interconnectedness of climate events and their wide-ranging consequences. From polar extremes to tropical paradises like the Philippines, the repercussions of climate change know no boundaries. Urgent action on a global scale is necessary to address the root causes and mitigate the far-reaching effects that threaten communities around the world.—OVERTURN