Science café: Atlantic threat
Mechanisms, model projections, and consequences of a shutdown of the Gulf Stream.
Among climate and ocean researchers, there is growing concern that the Gulf Stream in the Atlantic Ocean, which provides our mild climate, could weaken or even shut down this century. For large parts of Europe, and the Netherlands in particular, this could have enormous consequences. It would become significantly colder and drier in our country.
The Gulf Stream is one of the major currents in the world's oceans. These currents are the engine of the Earth's climate. They transport heat from the tropics to the north, carry cold water from the poles toward the equator in the depths, and are important for absorbing carbon dioxide. Prof. Henk Dijkstra, an oceanographer at Utrecht University, will explain the basis for these researchers' concerns.
Dubio will provide the live music, and Christa Hooijer will act as moderator after the break.
