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Scientists Propose Bering Strait Mega-Dam to Stabilize Atlantic Circulation

A new model study says sealing the narrow passage between Alaska and Russia could raise North Atlantic salt levels to keep a key ocean current from switching off.

The Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation is an important driver of both aquatic ecosystems, but it also helps regulate temperatures across Europe.
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Overview

  • Researchers from Utrecht University outlined in Science Advances a plan to close the Bering Strait with three connected dams spanning roughly 50 miles via the Diomede Islands.
  • Their simulations suggest blocking fresh Pacific water from entering the Arctic would make the North Atlantic saltier, which supports the deep sinking that keeps the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation running.
  • The AMOC moves warm surface water north and returns cold, dense water south in the deep ocean, so extra freshwater from ice melt and the Pacific can weaken this overturning by diluting the salt needed for sinking.
  • The team calls the build technically plausible in a shallow, narrow strait but stresses it is theoretical, would cause major local ecological harm, and would disrupt a growing Asia–Europe Arctic shipping route.
  • The authors frame the concept as a fallback as studies now project about a 50% AMOC weakening by 2100, and they say cutting carbon dioxide emissions remains the preferred way to lower the risk.