The power of penguin guano to reduce the effects of climate change in Antarctica
Briefly

Research at Marambio Base reveals that Adelie penguins release ammonia through their fecal waste, contributing to the formation of aerosols that help cool the Earth. The study, conducted between January and March 2023, shows that even low levels of ammonia can have a substantial impact on atmospheric conditions. These penguins, which gather in large colonies, may inadvertently assist in combating climate change by aiding the creation of insulating cloud layers in the atmosphere, altering local climate dynamics significantly.
Boyer and his colleagues found that Adelie penguins produce ammonia through their waste, which enhances the formation of aerosols that can cool the earth's surface.
Ammonia released from penguin guano contributes to cloud formation, creating insulating layers in the atmosphere that help mitigate climate change effects.
The study observed ammonia levels in Antarctica, demonstrating that lower concentrations can lead to significant atmospheric impact from biological sources.
The waste of Adelie penguins not only serves their reproductive needs but also plays an unexpected role in modulating climate through atmospheric particle formation.
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