The sight of ice across the Arctic Ocean could be a thing of the past a lot sooner than many think, according to new research.
Published by the WWF and the Catlin Arctic Survey team, the data have revealed that ice in the region is thinning and could be non-existent in the summer months within ten year's time.
Led by celebrated explorer Pen Hadow , the first person to trek solo without assistance from Canada to the North Geographic Pole, the group of scientists made over 6,000 measurements in the region between March and May this year.
While the ocean at that time of year usually has a thick layer of ice, only a thin covering was discovered.
Using seasonal evidence, experts have predicted the Arctic will be completely ice-free in summer within around 20 years – with much of the melting expected in the next decade.
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