Global Glacier Loss Accelerates Amid Climate Change Crisis

Glaciers worldwide are experiencing unprecedented loss. A recent UNESCO report marks that the last three years have seen the most decline in glacial mass on record. Since 1975, approximately 9,000 gigatons of ice have been lost. This loss is equivalent to an ice block the size of Germany, with a thickness of 25 meters. The report indicates that climate change, driven by fossil fuel emissions, is the primary cause of this accelerated loss. The consequences of melting glaciers are dire, affecting economies, environments, and societies globally.

Current State of Glaciers

Globally, glaciers are rapidly diminishing. The Arctic, Alps, South America, and the Tibetan Plateau are all affected. In 2024 alone, glaciers lost 450 gigatons of mass. Five of the last six years recorded the largest losses in glacial mass. The melting glaciers are contributors to rising sea levels, which threaten millions with floods and impact water sources essential for agriculture and energy.

Impact on Freshwater Resources

Glaciers and ice sheets are crucial for global freshwater supply. They constitute about 70% of the world’s freshwater. Only around 275,000 glaciers remain. As these glaciers recede, the availability of freshwater diminishes. This situation poses severe risks to the 1.1 billion people living in mountain communities, who rely on these water sources. The loss of glaciers leads to unreliable water supplies and increases the risk of natural hazards.

Natural Hazards and Climate Change

The effects of glacier loss are exacerbating natural hazards. Regions dependent on snowpack for water face worsening droughts. The frequency and severity of events such as avalanches, landslides, flash floods, and glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs) are on the rise. For instance, a Peruvian farmer has taken legal action against a major energy company, seeking accountability for flood risks linked to historical emissions.

Cultural and Spiritual Implications

The disappearance of glaciers also has cultural ramifications. Communities, such as the Bakonzo in East Africa, have deep spiritual ties to glaciers, believing in deities that reside within them. The loss of these glaciers creates a deep emotional impact on these communities, leading to both cultural and social upheaval.

Global Response and Future Outlook

The UNESCO report coincides with the first World Day for Glaciers, calling for urgent global action. Experts emphasise the need for enhanced scientific understanding and improved monitoring systems. They advocate for better forecasts and early warning mechanisms to prepare for the consequences of glacier loss. The interconnectedness of billions of people to glaciers necessitates collective efforts to protect these vital resources.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Discuss the socio-economic impacts of glacier loss on communities dependent on glacial water sources.
2. Critically examine the role of climate change in the accelerated melting of glaciers worldwide.
3. Explain the significance of glaciers in maintaining global freshwater supplies and their role in climate regulation.
4. With suitable examples, discuss the spiritual and cultural dimensions related to glaciers in indigenous communities.

Answer Hints:

1. Discuss the socio-economic impacts of glacier loss on communities dependent on glacial water sources.

1. Glacier loss leads to unreliable water supplies, affecting agriculture and hydroelectric energy production.
2. 1.1 billion people living in mountain communities face increased risks of drought and natural hazards.
3. Communities may experience economic instability due to reduced crop yields and energy shortages.
4. Increased local conflicts over dwindling water resources can arise among communities.
5. Legal actions, like the Peruvian farmer’s lawsuit, highlight accountability for historical emissions impacting water security.

2. Critically examine the role of climate change in the accelerated melting of glaciers worldwide.

1. Climate change, primarily driven by fossil fuel emissions, has raised global temperatures .
2. The last three years have recorded the highest glacial mass loss, with 450 gigatons lost in 2024 alone.
3. Rising temperatures exacerbate melting rates, impacting glaciers from the Arctic to the Himalayas.
4. Climate change also increases the frequency and severity of natural hazards linked to glacier loss.
5. Future projections indicate accelerated glacier retreat, further contributing to global sea level rise.

3. Explain the significance of glaciers in maintaining global freshwater supplies and their role in climate regulation.

1. Glaciers and ice sheets account for about 70% of the world’s freshwater resources.
2. They serve as natural reservoirs, releasing water gradually to sustain ecosystems and human needs.
3. Melting glaciers contribute to global sea level rise, which threatens coastal communities.
4. Glaciers also play a role in regulating regional climates by influencing weather patterns.
5. The loss of glaciers diminishes freshwater availability, posing risks to billions depending on these sources.

4. With suitable examples, discuss the spiritual and cultural dimensions related to glaciers in indigenous communities.

1. Indigenous communities, like the Bakonzo in East Africa, have deep spiritual connections to glaciers, believing in deities residing within them.
2. The loss of glaciers disrupts cultural traditions and spiritual practices tied to these natural landmarks.
3. Emotional impacts arise from the disappearance of glaciers, leading to social upheaval within these communities.
4. Stories and beliefs surrounding glaciers reflect the community’s identity and relationship with the environment.
5. Preserving glaciers is crucial not only for physical survival but also for maintaining cultural heritage.