Since teh termination of the Little Ice Age in 1850 and the onset of the industrial revolution, Alpine glaciers have shrunk by 70% of their surface area, melting at the fastest rate globally due to the heightened warming in Western Europe. If no action is taken, the extinction of Alpine glaciers is imminent by the end of the century. The Pyrenees, a mountain range in Southern Europe, is also experiencing a similar fate.
French glaciologist Jean-Baptiste Bosson explains that the French case is particularly significant, as it foreshadows what will occur in other regions. Bosson has been vocal about the disappearance of ice rivers for years. Alongside his scientific endeavors, he advocates for the preservation of living organisms thru his association “margin sauvage,” focusing on the emergence of new postglacial ecosystems and their protection from human interference.
What do we know about these new ecosystems?
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Over the past 200 years, 12 square kilometers of primary forests have emerged on the alpine chain due to glacial retreat, according to Bosson. Contrary to the common belief that there are no more primary forests in Western Europe, new forests are sprouting.
Globally, among these terrestrial areas, the question arises whether future forests, mineral high mountains, or lakes will emerge. The total area expected to appear is estimated to be at least the size of Nepal, indicating a significant change in the EarthS landscape.
How do glaciers play a crucial role on Earth?
Currently, there are around 270,000 glaciers, and their decline is widespread due to climate change. On large sites like Patagonia or Alaska, if we adhere to the Paris Agreement, we can still save a significant portion of the ice masses. This is crucial because glaciers cover 10% of the planet’s land surface in white, reflecting a substantial amount of solar radiation.
The Earth’s temperature is regulated in part by glaciers: the less ice there is, the more solar radiation it absorbs, leading to increased warming. Throughout the 300,000 years that our species has inhabited the Earth, large glaciers have always been present. We are a species adapted to a temperate earth,not a warm one. The loss of glaciers would result in a total conversion of the planet’s functioning and climate.
What about water?
In total, glaciers store the equivalent of 66 nautical meters of water. For comparison, if all the world’s lakes were included in the calculation, it would result in only a 25 cm rise in sea level. This is why glaciers represent the largest bodies of fresh water on the planet. Their disappearance would have significant consequences on human infrastructure,particularly for the billions of people living near coastlines.
The impact on the water cycle is also noteworthy. For instance, in the Rhône valley, glaciers ensure that there is not too much raw water in winter, as the water is stored in the form of snow and ice upstream. Conversely, during hot summers, the melting glaciers contribute to a steady water supply throughout the year.
The Rhône basin stands out from the Garonne and the Loire, which are experiencing critically low water levels. This disparity poses a significant risk, with potential for severe summer droughts and overwhelming floods during the rest of the year. The stakes are even higher when considering the impact on biodiversity. Glaciers serve as a vital habitat for numerous species, and their loss would result in a catastrophic loss of biodiversity.
in a groundbreaking move, Paris hosted the One Planet – Polar Summit in December 2023, marking the first global initiative to address the challenges facing glaciers and polar regions. the summit highlighted the need for protective measures at the international level, as france took a leading role in advocating for climate action to save the glaciers. recognizing that france cannot tackle this issue alone, the summit emphasized the importance of a global effort, involving both public and private sectors.
Glaciers are powerful indicators of climate change, and their preservation is crucial. A global conference on glacier conservation,scheduled for 2025,will introduce a dedicated fund to accelerate conservation efforts. However, protecting these areas requires a multifaceted approach. At the Alpine level,France has discussed the need for protection with neighboring countries,but their commitment fell short of expectations.
The strategy for glacier preservation must be extensive, encompassing local, national, and global efforts. Establishing nature reserves, implementing national biodiversity strategies, and fostering international cooperation are essential components. The concept of a global glacier treaty,modeled after the Antarctic Treaty,could be a transformative step. This treaty would prohibit weapons, conflicts, and mining and oil exploration in glacier regions, safeguarding them for future generations.
The issue of mining and oil exploration in glacier areas is a pressing concern.large corporations are exploiting these regions, causing environmental damage and threatening the survival of glaciers. Kyrgyzstan’s Kumtor mine is a prime example, where explosives are used to expand mining operations, leading to severe environmental consequences. Illegal mining activities also pose a threat, as these areas are frequently enough left vulnerable to human exploitation.
France, too, has contributed to the destruction of glaciers, using excavators to clear the way for the ski industry. this highlights the need for a collective effort to protect these fragile ecosystems. The Land of our Battles campaign emphasizes the importance of climate justice, linking environmental and social struggles to counteract the destructive forces of capitalism. By unmasking the manipulations of lobbies and promoting initiatives that reduce environmental inequalities,we can make a difference. Support for this cause is crucial in the fight for a enduring future.
Amidst the bustling streets of Paris, a unique initiative is capturing the hearts of locals and visitors alike. The Humanité, a historic French newspaper, has embarked on a mission to reconnect with its community in a profoundly personal way. By inviting readers to become the storytellers, the publication is fostering a sense of belonging and shared experience that transcends the customary boundaries of journalism.
Launched recently, the “It’s You, Humanité” campaign encourages individuals to share their stories, thoughts, and experiences, directly contributing to the newspaper’s content. This innovative approach not only revitalizes the connection between the publication and its audience but also highlights the enduring power of human narratives in an increasingly digital world.
“We wanted to create a space where everyone’s voice could be heard,” said Jean-Luc Mélenchon, a prominent figure in French politics and a supporter of the initiative. “In a time when data is abundant but frequently enough feels impersonal, we believe in the importance of personal stories that reflect the diversity and richness of our society.”
The campaign has already received an outpouring of submissions, ranging from heartfelt personal essays to insightful reflections on current events. Each story is a testament to the resilience, creativity, and compassion of the French people, offering a glimpse into the fabric of their daily lives.
One participant, Marie Dupont, shared her experience of navigating the challenges of urban life as a single mother. “It’s not just about the struggles,” she said. “It’s about the moments of joy, the small victories, and the strength we find in each other. I wanted to contribute to a narrative that celebrates our collective humanity.”
The Humanité’s initiative is not only a breath of fresh air in the world of journalism but also a reminder of the power of storytelling to bridge divides and foster understanding. As the campaign continues to gain momentum, it is inspiring other media outlets to consider more inclusive and participatory approaches to content creation.
For those interested in contributing their own stories or learning more about the “It’s You, Humanité” campaign, the newspaper has set up a dedicated webpage where submissions can be made. This is an prospect for anyone to become a part of a movement that is redefining the role of media in society, one story at a time.
in a world often defined by division and discord, the Humanité’s initiative stands as a beacon of hope, reminding us of the power of shared experiences and the enduring human spirit. as the stories continue to pour in, it becomes clear that the true strength of a community lies in its ability to listen, to understand, and to connect on a deeply personal level.
Alpine Glacier Melting: A Conversation with Jean-Baptiste Bosson on Climate change and Ecosystem Dynamics
in the wake of alarming climate changes impacting our planet, particularly in the Alpine region, Senior Editor of world-today-news.com sits down with renowned French glaciologist Jean-Baptiste Bosson. With an urgent message about the drastic retreat of glaciers and the emergence of new ecosystems, Bosson emphasizes the importance of global cooperation to address these pressing environmental issues.
The Disappearance of Alpine Glaciers
Senior Editor:
jean-Baptiste, thank you for joining us. As glaciers in the Alpine region shrink rapidly, can you summarize how significant this retreat is for our planet?
Jean-Baptiste Bosson:
Certainly! The Alpine glaciers have lost about 70% of their surface area as the end of the Little Ice Age in 1850. this decline is not just a regional concern; itS indicative of a broader global trend. If we continue on this trajectory without action, we could witness the extinction of these glaciers by the end of the century, which would have immense implications for our climate and environment.
Emerging Ecosystems from Ice Retreat
Senior Editor:
You’ve mentioned the emergence of new ecosystems as glaciers retreat. What can you tell us about that?
Jean-Baptiste Bosson:
Over the past two centuries, 12 square kilometers of primary forests have appeared in the Alps due to glacial retreat. Contrary to the perception that Western Europe lacks such forests, we are witnessing rejuvenation in ecosystems. These new habitats may eventually cover an area at least as large as Nepal, indicating significant changes in our landscape and biodiversity.
The Role of Glaciers in Climate Regulation
Senior Editor:
Why are glaciers so crucial for maintaining our planet’s climate?
Jean-Baptiste Bosson:
Glaciers play a pivotal role in regulating Earth’s temperature. They cover about 10% of the planet’s land surface, reflecting solar radiation, which helps cool the Earth.As they melt, less ice means more solar absorption, leading to further warming. This situation is alarming because our species has evolved within a climate that relied on the stability of large glaciers.
Impact on Water Supplies
Senior Editor:
What does the melting of glaciers mean for freshwater resources?
Jean-Baptiste bosson:
Glaciers are the largest terrestrial freshwater stores,equating to about 66 nautical meters of water. Their loss would significantly impact human infrastructure, especially in coastal regions. For example, during hot summers, melting glaciers provide a steady water supply. Without them, regions like the Rhône valley could face severe water shortages, especially during droughts.
International Efforts and Future Strategies
Senior Editor:
The One Planet – Polar Summit recently occurred in Paris. How does this pertain to glacier conservation efforts?
Jean-Baptiste Bosson:
The summit was a landmark initiative, emphasizing the need for global action in protecting our glaciers. France took the lead, pushing for collaborative efforts at various levels—local, national, and global. We require protective treaties to bar harmful activities like mining in glacier regions, which are currently at risk from both legal and illegal exploitation.
Collective Duty for the Future
Senior Editor:
Given the stakes, what can individuals do to contribute to glacier preservation?
Jean-Baptiste Bosson:
Every effort counts, from supporting climate justice movements to advocating for policy changes. informing ourselves about the impacts of capitalism on crucial ecosystems is vital. By promoting awareness and involvement in enduring practices, we can address the detrimental factors impacting glaciers and, afterward, our planet’s future.
