Oceans warming at rate of two trillion 100-watt lightbulbs, new study finds

Posted by Eugenie Sage February 03, 2015 4:41 PM

A new study on increasing ocean temperatures released today highlights the urgent need for the Government to take action on climate change, the Green Party said today.

A new study on increasing ocean temperatures released today highlights the urgent need for the Government to take action on climate change, the Green Party said today.

The international study, which included work compiled by NIWA, shows that ocean warming steadily increased between 2006 and 2013. It shows the temperature of the earth’s oceans is increasing at a rate equivalent to adding two trillion 100-watt lightbulbs into the ocean.

The study said this is further proof of “unabated planetary warming.”

Green Party oceans spokesperson Eugenie Sage said, “This study is another message to our Government that New Zealand must confront the challenge of climate change and reduce our emissions.

“New Zealand could choose to take action on climate change but right now we are on the wrong side of history with National’s policies driving up emissions.”

The study showed that the world’s southern oceans, in particular the Pacific ocean, are absorbing the majority of the world’s excess heat. Warming oceans will increase sea level rise, contribute to further glacial melting and to ecosystem destruction.

“The Government should look to the science and protect our economy, environment and our way of life. With its head in the sand on climate change and emission reduction, the National government is increasing the costs for present and future generations.

“Taking action on climate change is a win-win. We can transition New Zealand to a smart, fair and green economy that works for everyone, while doing our bit to reduce global carbon emissions,” said Ms Sage.

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