andes
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Glaciers in the Andes are shrinking to record lows
Tropical glaciers in the Andes are smaller than they have been in more than 11,000 years, raising concerns about water supply and climate change impacts in the region.
In short:
- Research on glaciers in the Andes shows they are now smaller than at any time in the last 11,700 years, according to a new study.
- Scientists studied beryllium-10 and carbon-14 in bedrock, revealing that these glaciers are shrinking faster than expected and are now at unprecedented lows.
- The shrinking glaciers threaten water supplies for millions in South America and act as indicators of climate change.
Key quote:
“It’s a sad milestone to hit for these glaciers.”
— Emilio Mateo, researcher at the Aspen Global Change Institute
Why this matters:
Shrinking glaciers threaten water resources crucial for agriculture and human consumption in South America. The situation highlights the need to address climate change impacts on vulnerable ecosystems and communities worldwide.
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