Last Updated on June 12, 2023 by Umar
The Earth has experienced numerous ice ages throughout its history, with the most recent one peaking between 24,000 and 21,000 years ago
As the planet’s climate continues to change, scientists predict that another ice age is inevitable
This raises the question: will humans be able to survive the next ice age?
Survival of Early Humans in the Ice Age
Early Homo sapiens were able to survive the last ice age due to their adaptability and intelligence
They developed larger brains, which allowed them to create advanced tools and weapons, and they learned how to build shelters to protect themselves from the harsh weather conditionsAdditionally, early humans were able to adapt to a wide variety of climates, which helped them endure the extreme climate changes that occurred during the Ice Age.
Factors Influencing the Next Ice Age
Several factors can influence the onset of an ice age, including changes in the Earth’s orbit, solar energy output, atmospheric composition, ocean currents, and volcanic activity
Currently, Earth is in an interglacial period called the Holocene, and the amount of anthropogenic greenhouse gases emitted into the atmosphere is predicted to delay the next glacial period by between 100,000 and 500,000 years
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Human Adaptation and Survival in the Next Ice Age
While humans were able to survive the last ice age, the next one could prove to be much more challenging due to the significant growth in the world’s population and our reliance on technology, electricity, and fossil fuels
In an ice age, these resources would be scarce, making it difficult to maintain our current way of life.
However, advancements in technology and infrastructure may help us adapt to extreme conditions
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Some strategies for surviving an ice age include:
- Stockpiling food, especially canned and dried goods
- Re-learning basic survival skills, such as hunting and building shelters
- Considering hydroponics-grown food as an alternative food source
- Moving underground or to more insulated living spaces
- Wearing practical, warm clothing and using animal skins for insulation
Conclusion
The next ice age is inevitable, but the fate of humanity is not.
While it may be challenging, humans have the ability to adapt and overcome extreme climate conditions.
It is crucial that we prepare for the possibility of such an event by investing in sustainable energy sources, improving infrastructure, and developing new technologies to help us adapt to a changing climate
By learning from our ancestors and applying modern advancements, humans have a fighting chance to survive the next ice age.
Helpful Resources
- https://www.history.com/news/ice-age-human-survival
- https://ruslan.rocks/posts/will-humans-survive-the-next-ice-age
- https://www.space.com/ice-ages-on-earth-could-humans-survive
- https://www.discovermagazine.com/planet-earth/how-humans-survived-the-ice-age
- https://gml.noaa.gov/outreach/info_activities/pdfs/PSA_ice_ages.pdf
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ice_age
- https://www.mookychick.co.uk/how-to/how-to-guides/how-to-survive-an-ice-age.php