Myth:
We should be happy about global warming, as it will delay the onset of the next ice age.
Fact:
The next ice age is not due for at least another 10,000 years, and possibly not for another 50,000 years. We do not need to be concerned about it any time soon.
The Earth during the last ice age. [Source: Wikimedia Commons]
Sources:
“Glacial-Interglacial Cycles,” US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/sites/default/files/2021-11/1%20Glacial-Interglacial%20Cycles-Final-OCT%202021.pdf
“Scientists match Earth’s ice age cycles with orbital shifts,” UC Santa Barbara, 27/3/25. https://news.ucsb.edu/2025/021777/scientists-match-earths-ice-age-cycles-orbital-shifts
Elise Kjørstad, “When will the next ice age come?” Science Norway, 30/12/25. https://www.sciencenorway.no/climate-environment-ice-age/when-will-the-next-ice-age-come/2593963