Overview:
A new study led by the University of Southampton reveals that ancient Southern Hemisphere bogs formed 15,000 years ago due to a major shift in the Southern Westerly Winds—and evidence suggests the winds may be shifting again today. Researchers warn that changes in these wind patterns could influence global carbon storage and the speed of modern climate change.
Secrets of the Southern Hemisphere
For years, scientists struggled to understand why bogs—dense peat wetlands—expanded so rapidly across the Southern Hemisphere after the last Ice Age. Their remote locations and limited site records made the mystery even harder to decode.
Solving a Mystery
A recent breakthrough study has now shed light on the phenomenon. Researchers found that major shifts in the Southern Westerly Winds about 15,000 years ago played a crucial role in triggering the development of these widespread peatlands.
Digging Up the Wind
The study, led by the University of Southampton, analyzed peat samples from South America, Australasia, and sub-Antarctic islands.
Using radiocarbon dating, scientists identified when environmental conditions became favorable for the growth of these ancient bogs.
Their findings show a strong relationship between climatic wind patterns and the timing of peatland expansion.
Riding the Tide
Wind patterns didn’t just shape bog growth—they influenced how much carbon peatlands stored and how CO₂ moved between the ocean and the atmosphere.
Lead author Dr. Zoë Thomas noted:
“We found a clear pattern—major peat growth occurred at the same time the winds shifted north or south, coinciding with changing atmospheric levels of carbon dioxide.” (Science Daily)
Whichever Way the Wind Blows
Now, scientists fear history may be repeating itself. New data indicates the Southern Westerly Winds are once again shifting toward the South Pole.
Dr. Haidee Cadd of the University of Wollongong warns that such changes could weaken a critical global carbon sink:
“If the planet’s largest carbon sink becomes less effective, it will accelerate the rate at which CO₂ accumulates in the atmosphere, amplifying global warming trends.” (Science Daily)
Sources
- Science Daily:
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251118220043.htm - Phys.org:
https://phys.org/news/2025-11-ancient-bog-growth-reveals-shifting.html - Technology Networks:
https://www.technologynetworks.com/applied-sciences/news/ancient-peatlands-reveal-15000-year-climate-secret-407188
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