Scientists have proposed an ambitious geoengineering solution to protect Antarctica's rapidly melting Thwaites Glacier using anchored seabed curtains to block warm ocean water. Known as the "Doomsday Glacier," Thwaites is losing 50 billion metric tons of ice annually and could raise sea levels by more than 60 cm if it collapses entirely.

The proposed flexible curtain would span 80 km at depths of 600 meters, costing an estimated $40-80 billion to install and $1-2 billion annually to maintain. Scientists will deploy underwater robots in January to gather crucial data about water conditions and feasibility. While critics argue such projects distract from decarbonization efforts and present enormous logistical challenges, supporters contend these interventions may be necessary as a last resort given continued rising emissions.

Read the full story at https://news.mongabay.com/2025/09/scientists-weigh-giant-sea-curtain-to-shield-doomsday-glacier-from-melting/

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