Summary
A study published in Nature Climate Change found that thousands of glaciers could melt every year by the middle of the century if global warming continues unchecked. The study suggests that unless governments take action, many glaciers might disappear, reducing their number significantly by the year 2100. Even with efforts to limit warming, a significant loss of glaciers is expected.
Key Facts
- Scientists warn that the world could lose thousands of glaciers each year if global warming isn't controlled.
- Currently, about 750 glaciers melt annually, but this number could rise significantly if temperatures increase.
- The study predicts only about 18,288 glaciers may be left by the end of the century if warming trends continue.
- Even if global warming is limited to 1.5 degrees Celsius as per the Paris Agreement, about 2,000 glaciers could melt every year by 2041.
- More than half of the world's glaciers might disappear by 2100, even under the best case scenario.
- The UN Environment Programme expects global temperatures to rise 2.3 to 2.5 degrees Celsius by the century's end.
- The study was released at the end of the UN's International Year of Glacier Preservation, highlighting the need for strong climate policies.
- Glacier expert Matthias Huss noted the emotional impact of glaciers' loss, highlighting its significance beyond scientific concerns.
