Natural gas hydrates are ice-like solids that form at low temperatures under increased pressure and are widespread in permafrost regions. As they predominantly contain climate-active methane as gas molecules and their stability is endangered by the global warming, there is a risk of a self-reinforcing process: permafrost and gas hydrates decompose due to global warming, methane gas is released into the atmosphere, which in turn increases the greenhouse effect. As the local geological, geophysical, geochemical and biological boundary conditions have a considerable influence on the decomposition process of the gas hydrates, an interdisciplinary approach is required in order to understand the complex problem. The Splinter meeting will provide an opportunity for all interested scientists to discuss how these issues can be addressed as part of an international collaboration and to discuss possible initial concrete steps.