Waterman Expedition - Erosion From Melting Permafrost

Photo credit: John Burcham

The kayakers paddle along a shore showing signs of coastal erosion from melting permafrost and a lack of protective sea ice, allowing storm waves to batter the bluffs. Rapidly melting permafrost—underlaying a fifth of the earth—is transforming the Arctic, while releasing trapped carbon dioxide and methane that is increasing greenhouse gasses.