ISLAMABAD (PEN) : World Glacier Day is being observed today, with growing global concern over the rapid melting of glaciers. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has issued a stark warning about the escalating impact of climate change on the planet’s glaciers, stressing the urgency of addressing the crisis.
Global Ice Loss Continues at Alarming Rate
A recent report reveals that since 1975, approximately 9,000 gigatons of ice have melted worldwide. This massive loss is equivalent to the total land area of Germany. In 2024 alone, an additional 450 gigatons of ice were lost, a troubling indication of the accelerating pace of glacier retreat.
If current trends continue, experts warn that most of the world’s glaciers could disappear within the next century, with devastating consequences for both the environment and water resources.
The Global Glacial Decline
There are roughly 275,000 glaciers worldwide, but their rapid depletion threatens crucial ecosystems, water supply systems, and local communities that rely on glacial meltwater. As glaciers shrink, the threat of rising sea levels also increases, further amplifying the urgency of addressing climate change.
The Need for Immediate Action
As World Glacier Day serves as a reminder of this environmental crisis, experts are calling for immediate action to mitigate the damage. Efforts to reduce carbon emissions, protect vulnerable ecosystems, and invest in sustainable solutions are critical to slowing the rate of ice loss and preventing irreversible damage to the planet’s glaciers.
World Glacier Day not only brings attention to the challenges posed by glacier melting but also calls for collective action to protect these vital natural resources for future generations.
