Climate Cast: What is permafrost and why does it matter?

Permafrost
This photo shows the Noatak National Preserve in Alaska, where the permafrost thawing has caused erosion and ground degradation. Massive amounts of greenhouse gases trapped below thawing permafrost will likely vent into the air over the next several decades, accelerating and amplifying global warming, scientists warn.
Edward Schuur | University of Florida, AP