Research Article | Open Access
The Impact of Climate Change on Glacier Retreat: A Review of Observations and Projections
Sandeep Kumar Sahu, Mamta Dewangan
Pages: 917-923
Abstract
Glacier retreat, a prominent consequence of climate change, has profound implications for global ecosystems and human societies. This paper provides a comprehensive review of current observations, future projections, impacts, and mitigation/adaptation strategies related to glacier retreat. Observational studies indicate a significant loss of glacier mass over the past century, with accelerating rates of retreat in many regions. Projections based on climate models suggest continued glacier shrinkage, highlighting the urgent need for greenhouse gas emission reductions. The impacts of glacier retreat include sea level rise, water resource changes, and increased risks to coastal communities and glacier-dependent regions. Mitigation and adaptation strategies, such as international agreements and technological innovations, offer pathways to address these challenges. Overall, this paper emphasizes the importance of collective action to mitigate climate change and manage the impacts of glacier retreat.
Keywords
Glacier retreat, climate change, observations, projections, impacts, mitigation, adaptation, sea level rise, water resources