In an unprecedented move, the United Nations has declared 2025 as the International Year of Glaciers, co-facilitated by UNESCO and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). This global initiative aims to bring together governments, organizations, and individuals to tackle the pressing crisis facing glaciers worldwide. With glaciers providing freshwater to more than 2 billion people, their rapid melting has become a critical environmental and humanitarian challenge.
Glaciers and ice sheets hold roughly 70% of the world’s freshwater, making them vital to ecosystems and communities. However, they are disappearing at an alarming rate due to climate change, with grave consequences for water security. As WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo pointed out, “Melting ice and glaciers threaten long-term water security for millions. This international year must be a wake-up call to the world.”
Recent data underscores this urgency. In 2023, glaciers experienced their greatest water loss in over five decades. Switzerland, for example, saw a staggering 10% loss of its glacier mass between 2022 and 2023. A further concern is the fate of UNESCO heritage sites: Nearly one-third of glaciers in these regions are projected to disappear by 2050, threatening not only water resources but cultural heritage.
As we approach 2025, raising global awareness is a key focus of the initiative. Glaciers play an essential role in regulating the climate and supporting biodiversity. “Glaciers don’t care if we believe in science they just melt in the heat,” said Dr. Carolina Adler of the Mountain Research Initiative, emphasizing the need for immediate action.
The year will also see a concerted effort to boost scientific understanding through global programs like the Global Cryosphere Watch, ensuring that data drives effective climate action. Strengthening policy frameworks to incorporate glacier preservation into global climate strategies, such as the Paris Agreement, is also a priority.
A crucial aspect of the initiative is securing funding to help vulnerable communities adapt to the impacts of glacier loss. Mobilizing financial resources will support adaptation and mitigation efforts, particularly in regions heavily reliant on glaciers for freshwater, such as Central Asia.
Key events in 2025 include the celebration of World Glacier Day on March 21, which coincides with World Water Day, and the International Glacier Preservation Conference hosted by Tajikistan in May. This conference will serve as a platform for scientists, policymakers, and community leaders to discuss solutions and forge new partnerships.
Tajikistan’s commitment to glacier preservation is clear. “The only way to preserve glaciers as an important resource for the entire planet is for all governments to act together with Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) aligned with the 1.5°C Paris Agreement limit,” said Bahodur Sheralizoda, Chair of Tajikistan’s Committee of Environmental Protection.
Despite the urgency of the situation, some level of glacier loss remains inevitable due to current warming trends. However, experts agree that global cooperation can slow this process and mitigate the impacts. As Dr. John Pomeroy from the University of Saskatchewan warned, “We must prepare for cryospheric destruction through urgent policy changes.”
In Tajikistan alone, nearly 1,000 glaciers have melted, representing a third of the country’s glacier volume. These losses are contributing to severe water security challenges in the region.
The International Year of Glaciers aims to unite nations, organizations, and individuals in a common mission. Dr. Pomeroy emphasizes, “This is a mechanism to renew efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance science and adaptation.”
Looking to the future, experts hope that 2025 will mark a pivotal moment in our collective efforts to protect glaciers. “History will record that 2025 was the tipping point where humanity changed course and eventually saved the glaciers, ourselves, and our planet,” concluded Dr. Pomeroy.
As the world unites to address the glacier crisis, the year 2025 stands as a critical turning point in the battle against climate change.
