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18 Think Tanks in BriefExplore Articles by Expertsby the sun and reflect it back to Earth, causing a temperature rise. Additionally, deforestation, agriculture, industry, and landfills further exacerbate the problem. Carbon dioxide levels have increased by 48% compared to pre-industrial revolution levels.Source: Manuel BortolettiModel predictions indicate that temperatures in the polar regions will continue to rise much faster than the global average, leading to an acceleration in the loss of sea ice. This rapid environmental change threatens not only species like the polar bear but also the organisms at the base of the polar food web, such as phytoplankton and microalgae blooms. Climate change in the polar regions affects several factors, including average temperatures, seasonal fluctuations, and changes in the ice cover of oceans, soil, vegetation, drainage systems, and water flow rates in rivers and ponds. These alterations to the physical characteristics of the region can lead to shifts in ecosystems and change the physical and chemical properties of air, soil, and water. Temperature increases also significantly affect permafrost, resulting in environmental, physical, and biogeochemical changes. Due to its complex physical properties, permafrost's response to temperature changes is not straightforward and is difficult to predict.Climate refers to the longterm patterns of weather in a particular area. Climate change involves significant shifts in these patterns and an increase in the frequency of extreme events. By studying past and present climate conditions, we gain valuable insights that help predict future climate trends. When comparing models, a key observation is that polar temperatures have risen more than the global average. Another significant observation is that while winter temperatures in the polar regions have warmed substantially, the annual mean and summer temperatures show minimal to no increase.Understanding Climate Change in Polar Regions