The Himalaya’s and The Andes are the planet’s largest source of fresh water after polar ice, which is melting rapidly. This area of the world is home to the water supply for more than two billion people. The floods resulting from continued warming and increased melting is having a huge impact on the Ganges and is not only affecting the supply of water but additionally the spiritual life of the Indian people. The effects go beyond India and into the water supplies of both China and South America.
While scientist have focused on the effect carbon has on the atmosphere; few current climate models incorporate the amplifying feedback from methane. The gas would be released by a defrosting tundra and the effect it will have on global weather patterns with increased heat being circulated in the stratosphere.
Carbon emissions are warming the atmosphere up to four degrees and is becoming increasingly apparent in the atmosphere. These factors can lead to a rapid shift in the make up of The Amazon, which currently absorbs 20 percent of the worlds carbon emissions. With out this mitigating factor, there is the potential for a global climate shift and terrible consequences.