European Geosciences Union presentation by GHD Scientist

Press release
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Natalie Trayling, Graduate Environmental Scientist - Climate Change, presented her research on the Antarctic Ice Sheet at the European Geosciences Union General Assembly last week. Her work, developed alongside scientists at GNS Science and Victoria University of Wellington, is instrumental to our understanding of the impact of climate change in different regions across the globe.

Natalie Trayling, Graduate Environmental Scientist - Climate Change, presented her research on the Antarctic Ice Sheet at the European Geosciences Union General Assembly last week. Her work, developed alongside scientists at GNS Science and Victoria University of Wellington, is instrumental to our understanding of the impact of climate change in different regions across the globe. 

GHD_Natalie Trayling

By analysing projections of the Antarctic Ice Sheet, the findings propose (indicate) that snow accumulation will outpace the loss of ice at the surface over the next few centuries, even under a high emissions scenario. Unlike the Arctic, where current research predicts a shift from majority snowfall to majority rainfall over time, the work suggests the loss of the ice sheet over the upcoming centuries will be driven predominantly by ocean warming. This is because snowfall is predicted to outweigh rainfall over the ice sheet. This means that snow accumulation at the surface may be a means of sea-level rise mitigation as it has a compensating effect for ocean-driven ice loss.

We're delighted to be expanding the capability of our environmental group to include crucial disciplines that will help our clients mitigate the effects of, and adapt to, climate change. As a Toitū carbonzero certified organisation, we are committed to reducing our footprint and working alongside our clients to foster sustainable, resilient futures for our communities.
Andrew Walker, Business Group Leader - Environment
Natalie completed this research through a Summer Research Scholarship with GNS Science as part of her master's degree at Victoria University of Wellington. In her role at GHD, Natalie will work together with our clients to reduce the emissions impact of their infrastructure projects. She joins a growing team advising clients on achieving sustainability, resilience, and ecological outcomes. 

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