The consequences of the planet’s rising temperatures are leaving alarming numbers. The **melting** of glaciers is a notorious example: tropical glaciers in Peru have receded by **40%**.
This was determined by the **United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (Unesco)**.
Furthermore, it is estimated that, if this continues, **they could disappear by the end of the century**.
## Tropical glaciers in Peru, in trouble
While glaciers are generally associated with cold climates, they also exist in high mountain areas located in the terrestrial strip between the Tropics of Cancer and Capricorn.
The Andean mountain range concentrates more than **95%** of these, called tropical glaciers, and over 70% are in Peru.
Unesco has warned that they are disappearing at an unprecedented rate, **caused by melting**, and this directly impacts the environment and communities.
These water resources from high mountains are **crucial for societies and ecosystems**.
The melting of these bodies of water caused by **climate change** directly affects ecosystems and the economies of societies. It exposes them to risks of **disasters and shortages** that often lead to massive migrations.
Furthermore, it represents a **blow to the culture and identity** of indigenous communities in that region of Peru, who even consider them deities.
In the case of this country, the relationship of communities near tropical glaciers is ancient. They worshiped them as a source of water and life. Currently, the peoples of the region maintain the values of indigenous culture and still consider them as **spirits they respect and protect**.
## Year of Glacier Conservation
The United Nations (UN) declared 2025 as the “**International Year of Glacier Conservation”**. In addition, they proclaimed March 21 of each year as World Glacier Day from now on.
The goal is to raise awareness worldwide about the **fundamental role of glaciers**, snow, and ice in the climate system and the hydrological cycle. And also, to inform about the relevance this has in economies, socially, and environmentally.
It also aims to share the **best practices and knowledge** in this regard. Something essential to address issues related to the **accelerated melting of glaciers** and its consequences.
**Unesco** and the **World Meteorological Organization (WMO)**, in collaboration with governments and relevant organizations, are invited to facilitate the implementation of initiatives as lead agencies.
Coordination efforts are supported by an Advisory Council and four Working Groups representing over **75 international organizations** and **35 countries**.
The Working Groups drive the implementation of key activities planned for this year, ensuring that each initiative aligns with the **overall objectives** and has a global impact.
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