On a sailboat amidst the icebergs of Greenland’s Scoresby Fjord, researchers are exploring an isolated and relatively unexamined area. This region, situated at the forefront of climate change, presents a pressing need for scientific investigation. The urgency is heightened after Summit Camp on Greenland‘s ice sheet experienced the warmest July on record. The scientists aim to understand the impact of climate change on the ecosystem of Scoresby Fjord.
The researchers face numerous challenges such as icebergs covering large portions of the fjord and the presence of polar bears. Despite these, they remain committed to the study due to the significant warming trends observed in the area. The French initiative Greenlandia has arranged the expedition. It aims to bridge the knowledge gap regarding this isolated and ecologically important ecosystem.
Scoresby Fjord, which remains frozen for much of the year, presents challenges in terms of navigation. It is quite challenging to understand its actual conditions. The research team is working to gather data and samples to better comprehend the impact of global warming on the region. Based on the gathered data, they would be able to provide insights for future policy decisions. With the fjord expected to freeze over again by mid-September, scientists are racing against time to document the changes occurring due to climate change.
