As the Great Salt Lake dries up, it is emitting millions of tons of of CO2

A recent study has revealed that the drying Great Salt Lake in Utah is becoming a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions, particularly carbon dioxide (CO2). The lake has shrunk by nearly half due to water diversions for agriculture and rapid population growth in Utah. Researchers from Canada's Royal Ontario Museum conducted a seven-month study in 2020, finding that the exposed lake bed emitted approximately 4.1 million tons of CO2 and other greenhouse gases, contributing to a 7% increase in Utah's human-caused emissions. This amount is comparable to the annual emissions of 140 commercial airplanes. The study highlights the need to address the impact of lake desiccation on climate change and incorporate it into mitigation strategies.

The Great Salt Lake, the largest saline lake in the Western Hemisphere, has been severely affected by a prolonged drought, exacerbated by climate change. The decline of the lake has led to negative consequences for local wildlife, including sharp declines in shorebird populations due to the loss of brine shrimp. Additionally, the dried lake bed poses health risks to nearby residents, as it can generate dust storms containing neurotoxins and carcinogens like arsenic and mercury. Although recent snowy winters have slightly improved the lake's levels, Utah's government has committed to investing in water conservation efforts to prevent further decline.