Glaciers are essential not only for their visual appeal, but also as key water resources that affect water availability and the stability of numerous ecosystems. A new study by ETH Zurich and Vrije Universiteit Brussel, published in The Cryosphere, reveals that glacier retreat is happening at an alarming rate.
Ice Melt Projections
According to projections, in a scenario of low emissions, glaciers could lose between 25% and 29% of their mass by the year 2100. However, this loss varies significantly by region.
For example, the European Alpine glaciers could lose more than 75% of their volume, while in the Arctic, Iceland, and Svalbard will retain much of their ice until 2100, although with considerable losses.
Impact of Greenhouse Gas Emissions
The pace of glacier retreat is closely linked to greenhouse gas emissions. Even in the best-case scenario, glacier mass loss would have significant consequences, such as sea level rise and biodiversity deterioration.
In a scenario of high emissions, glacier mass loss could increase by 46% to 54%, highlighting the need for global awareness and action.
Importance of Technology and Monitoring
Researchers have used specific detailed observations of each glacier to obtain these projections, which can help better manage local water resources and natural hazards.
Technologies such as satellite surveillance could provide greater precision to the projections and help plan an effective response to climate change.
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