Slowdown in Arctic Sea Ice Loss

A study published in August 2025 reported that the pace of Arctic sea ice loss has slowed over the past 20 years. While this pause may last another 5 to 10 years, scientists warn that the decline will resume more rapidly once the slowdown ends.

What does the study show?

• Sea ice loss slowed to 0.35 million sq km per decade over the past 20 years, compared to the 1.3 million sq km per decade loss between 1993–2012.
• The temporary slowdown is consistent with natural climate variability rather than a reversal of long-term decline.
• There is a 50% chance the slowdown will ....