Glacier Ice Loss: 9,000 Gigatonnes Gone Since 1975
Why in the news
A global report launched in Geneva on the first World Day for Glaciers documented record ice loss and sought urgent action.
Key facts
- Five of the last six years set records for glacier mass loss.
- For every 1 mm the sea rises, up to 300,000 more people face yearly flooding.
- About 1.1 billion mountain residents face risks to water, hydropower and farming.
Snapshot
| Item | Figure |
|---|---|
| Loss since 1975 | 9,000 Gt |
| Loss in 2024 | 450 Gt |
| Sea rise, 2000-2023 | 18 mm |
| Freshwater stored in glaciers and polar ice sheets | About 70% |
Action called for
- A UNESCO summit in Paris urged stronger protection.
- Stefan Uhlenbrook (WMO) wants better observation, forecasts, early warnings and research.
Exam angle
- First World Day for Glaciers; agencies: WMO, UNESCO.