3 sources·Science

Glaciers Melting at Accelerated Rate, Threatening Global Freshwater and Sea Levels

Recent studies reveal alarming glacier melt rates, causing significant ice loss and raising concerns about freshwater supplies and sea-level rise.

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  1. Global glacier melt is accelerating, new study finds

    Ice loss from the world’s glaciers has accelerated over the past decade, a first-of-its-kind global assessment has found, warning that melting may be faster than previously expected in the coming years and drive sea levels higher.

    Global glacier melt is accelerating, new study finds

    Al JazeeraAl Jazeera·2M
    Reliable
    This source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.
    ·
    Leans Left
    This outlet slightly leans left.
  3. Climate change: World's glaciers melting faster than ever recorded

    The novelty of this study, published in the journal Nature, is not so much finding that glaciers are melting faster and faster – we already knew that.

    Climate change: World's glaciers melting faster than ever recorded

    BBC NewsBBC News·2M
    Reliable
    This source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.
    ·
    Center
    This outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.
  1. Al Jazeera
  2. The Guardian
  3. BBC News
Updated: Feb 19th, 2025, 6:21 PM ET

Summary

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Research indicates that glaciers worldwide have lost 6,542 billion tonnes of ice since 2000, resulting in 18 mm of sea-level rise. The study shows a 36% increase in melting between 2012 and 2023 compared to earlier years, with glaciers losing about 273 billion tonnes each year. Central Europe suffers the most, losing 39% of its glacier ice. This rapid change jeopardizes freshwater supplies for 2 billion people and is linked to more frequent coastal flooding.

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