Andes Glaciers Melting 35% Faster Than Global Average-Threatening 90 Million People
The Andes glaciers are melting at a shocking rate of 35% higher than the world average, severely threatening the lives of 90 million citizens who rely on them for water. Scientists issued a warning on the first-ever World Day of Glaciers at UNESCO that the Andean Mountain Range stretching through Argentina, Chile, Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador and Colombia is losing ice at 0.7 meters annually.
Climate change, increased temperature and less snow are driving the loss of glaciers. Forecasts indicate that certain parts of the Andes will be ice-free by 2100, exerting huge pressure on freshwater resources, hydroelectricity and agriculture. Temperature is likely to increase up to 4.5°C by the end of the century, exacerbating food and water insecurity.
The crisis is reflective of worldwide trends with other areas like the Caucasus, the Himalayas and Switzerland also suffering from glacier retreat. Climate action, carbon reductions and good water management are all essential to keep the glaciers slow melting speed.
