The term for land that is permanently frozen beneath the surface is permafrost. This geological phenomenon is typically found in polar and subpolar regions, where temperatures remain consistently below freezing for extended periods. Permafrost can have significant implications for local ecosystems, construction, and climate change research, as it often stores large quantities of greenhouse gases like methane. Thawing permafrost due to warming temperatures can release these gases, contributing to climate change. Understanding permafrost is crucial for environmental scientists studying impacts on biodiversity and global warming.