'Feedback loops' worsening climate crisis: report

Among the biological feedback loops cited in a recent report are thawing permafrost, forest dieback, loss of soil carbon, and drying and smoldering peatlands. Photo: AFP

Global warming melts sea ice, which leads to further warming because water absorbs more heat than ice, creating what scientists call a "climate feedback loop".

A report released Feb 17 contains what researchers believe is the most comprehensive list of feedback loops ever compiled and a stark warning that climate models may be underestimating their impact.