Scientists will brave extreme conditions to investigate the rising acidity of the Arctic Ocean in one of the first expeditions of its kind.
The Catlin Arctic Survey 2010, starting next month, will explore the effects of increasing carbon dioxide emissions as experts warn the issue could devastate marine life.
A team of leading international research scientists will face minus 45C (minus 49F) temperatures, with a wind chill factor of minus 75C (minus 103F), during the two-month trip.
They will also battle against the threat of frost bite, thin ice and polar bears.
Dr Carol Turley, of the Plymouth Marine Laboratory, said the expedition was thought to be one of the first of its kind.
“This will be one of the first chances for scientists to investigate ocean acidification under natural field conditions under the Arctic sea ice,” she said.
…
Yorkshire Post, 24 February 2010. Full article.
