Earth has lost over 12 trillion tons of ice in 47 years

12.5 trillion tons lost in ice

Greenland and Antarctica have lost 12.5 trillion tons of ice. This amount could cover the entire continental U.S. in 5 feet of ice and has raised global sea levels by 3.1 cm.

• Enough to cover the U.S. in 5 feet of ice
• Raised global sea levels by 3.1 cm

Ice loss analyzed by satellite data

This ice loss was analyzed using satellite data. Led by the European Space Agency, it integrated data from 27 satellites and 45 observational methods, revealing that glacier erosion by warmer seas is a major cause.

• Led by ESA, integrating 27 satellites and 45 methods
• Glacier erosion by warmer seas is a major cause

Antarctic changes heighten sea level uncertainty

Changes in Antarctica are increasing the uncertainty of sea level rise. Antarctic mass loss is called a 'wild card,' highlighting the importance of studying ocean temperature changes and glacier interfaces.

• Antarctic mass loss is a 'wild card'
• Studying ocean temperature and glacier interfaces is crucial