Thawing Perils: Unmasking Prehistoric Viruses and Global Warming

Introduction:

In this article, I am not delving into the possibilities of time travel or the creation of dinosaurs as depicted in Jurassic Park. Instead, I am refraining from presenting a science fiction narrative. Humans are a relatively recent addition to Earth's history, having been around for not more than 300 thousand years. Earth, with its 4.5 billion-year existence, has witnessed life for 3.5 billion years. Almost 99% of the living beings that once inhabited this planet have gone extinct. Moreover, Earth has experienced numerous changes in its atmosphere, including severe winters like ice ages and rising ocean waters.

Prehistoric Origin:

While it is generally understood that once a life form dies, it does not come back into existence, there are some creatures that can exist without dying for not just millions but even billions of years. Although they don't actually live, they don't perish just like that.

Permafrost Threat:

Permafrost, which is soil or underwater sediment that remains below 0 °C (32 °F) for two years or more; the oldest is 700,000 years. With global warming, the threat of permafrost releasing its contents into the atmosphere not only increases the possibility of methane, a greenhouse gas, being released but also the potential release of prehistoric viruses that existed during that period. These viruses, with the possibility of mutations, can lead to a huge pandemic affecting both animals and humans.

The Modern Challenge:

It is needless to say that we modern humans, and even present-day most animals and plants, do not have natural immunity to these prehistoric Zombie viruses. The effects of this could lead to a very significant pandemic. This underscores the importance of each country taking responsibility for achieving net-zero carbon emissions. India appears to be making significant efforts to reach this goal well before the target. What about other nations?

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the potential threat of prehistoric viruses resurfacing due to global warming is a significant concern. With permafrost thawing and releasing ancient pathogens, the risk of pandemics is tangible. Modern society, lacking natural immunity to these ancient diseases, must prioritize global efforts for net-zero carbon emissions to mitigate the impact. While some countries like India are taking strides toward this goal, a collective and global commitment is essential to safeguard humanity from potential catastrophic consequences.