Abrupt changes: The Achilles' heels of the Earth system

Authors:   Steffen W, Andreae MO, Bolin B, Cox PM, Crutzen PJ, Cubasch U, Held H, Nakicenovic N

Publication Year:   2004

Reference:  Environment, 46(3):8-20 [2004]

Available as IIASA Reprint RP-04-006

Abstract

Steffen et al. explore the abrupt changes of the Earth's system. Possible abrupt changes in the physical climate system have already raised considerable concern, especially those involving changes in ocean circulation. The best-known example is the ocean's thermohaline circulation (THC), which transports heat from the pole in North Atlantic Ocean.

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