Amazon Deforestation: The Next Climate Tipping Point?

The Amazon rainforest is on the brink of a major climate tipping point – a small shift in the climate system that could have drastic long-term consequences for the entire planet. Scientists believe deforestation could cause the Amazon to dry out within the next 20 years, leading to more frequent droughts and lower crop yields across the Western Hemisphere. Meanwhile, is the Gulf Stream collapsing? The Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation is slowing down and is now at its weakest point in at least 1,600 years. Could it cross a tipping point where it shuts down entirely, just like in the Hollywood film The Day After Tomorrow? And let’s not forget that two massive glaciers in West Antarctica – Thwaites Glacier and Pine Island Glacier – are rapidly melting, threatening the world with sea level rise. If both of these glaciers were to melt, they could raise global sea levels by more than a meter. In this video, we explain all you need to know about Amazon dieback, the Gulf Stream collaps