Deep permafrost carbon may escape sooner than expected, study finds

A new study warns that carbon stored in deep layers of Arctic permafrost could be released faster than current climate models predict. Unlike surface permafrost, these deep layers have been frozen for thousands of years and contain ancient organic material that, once thawed, decomposes into carbon dioxide and methane. This could turn frozen soils from a carbon sink into a new source of emissions within this century. The findings suggest that current models may underestimate the speed and scale of permafrost carbon release. If deep permafrost thaws more quickly, it would add a significant feedback loop to global warming, potentially undermining efforts to limit temperature rise. Researchers emphasize the need to include these deeper layers in future climate projections to better understand the full risk.