What will happen to the planet if climate change melts what's left of Arctic permafrost? Shedding light on this overlooked threat, Arctic geologist Sue Natali reveals the true danger of heating up the iciest place on the planet: the release of ancient carbon that will dramatically worsen our climate problems. In this urgent talk, she introduces a new initiative, Permafrost Pathways, and their work to measure permafrost carbon emissions, fuse Indigenous solutions with modern technologies and protect the rights of Arctic residents. (This ambitious plan is a part of the Audacious Project, TED's initiative to inspire and fund global change.)

Sue Natali: How ancient Arctic carbon threatens everyone on the planet

How ancient Arctic carbon threatens everyone on the planet

In a record-breaking Alaskan heatwave, an Arctic scientist witnesses the rapid thaw of permafrost, signaling a dire climate warning.

Thawing permafrost may emit greenhouse gases on par with top-emitting nations, urging a reevaluation of global climate targets.

Permafrost Pathways merges Indigenous knowledge and modern science to tackle permafrost thaw, a crucial yet overlooked climate threat.