At the 28th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28) in the UAE, a crucial briefing was presented by Dr. Mohan B. Chand, the esteemed Chairman of the Cryospheric Society of Nepal (CSN). This briefing, delivered to Swiss President Alain Berset, highlighted the urgent issue of climate change and its profound impact on mountain glaciers, particularly in the Himalayas.
The Critical Role of Mountain Glaciers
Mountain glaciers are among the most sensitive indicators of climate change. They serve as critical freshwater reservoirs, providing a lifeline to millions of people who depend on glacial meltwater for drinking, irrigation, and hydropower. However, these glaciers are under severe threat due to global warming, and their accelerated melting poses a significant risk to both the environment and human populations.
The Himalayan Crisis
Dr. Chand focused on the alarming situation in the Himalayas, often referred to as the "Third Pole" due to its vast ice reserves. The Himalayas are home to some of the world's largest and most vital glaciers outside the polar regions. Yet, these glaciers are shrinking at an unprecedented rate. Studies have shown that Himalayan glaciers have lost approximately one-third of their ice mass since 2000, with the rate of loss doubling over the last two decades.
The impacts of this rapid glacial retreat are manifold. Firstly, the reduction in glacial volume diminishes the water supply during the dry season, exacerbating water scarcity in downstream regions, including parts of South Asia. Secondly, the destabilization of glaciers increases the risk of glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs), which can lead to catastrophic floods that endanger lives and infrastructure.
Global Implications
Dr. Chand emphasized that the melting of mountain glaciers is not just a regional issue but a global one. The loss of glaciers contributes to rising sea levels, which threaten coastal communities worldwide. Moreover, the reduction in snow and ice cover affects global weather patterns, potentially leading to more extreme and unpredictable climate events.
The briefing underscored the importance of international cooperation in addressing these challenges. Dr. Chand called for stronger commitments to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, which are the primary drivers of global warming and glacial melt. He also advocated for increased support for climate adaptation and mitigation efforts in vulnerable regions, such as the Himalayas.
Switzerland's Role
Addressing President Berset, Dr. Chand highlighted Switzerland's unique position as a country with extensive experience in managing mountainous environments and glacial ecosystems. He urged Switzerland to take a leading role in promoting international collaboration on cryospheric research and to support initiatives aimed at protecting mountain glaciers.
In response, President Berset acknowledged the gravity of the situation and expressed Switzerland's commitment to advancing climate action, particularly in the area of cryospheric science. He emphasized the need for robust scientific research, innovative solutions, and stronger global cooperation to tackle the challenges posed by climate change.
Conclusion
The briefing by Dr. Mohan B. Chand at COP28 served as a poignant reminder of the fragile state of the world's mountain glaciers and the urgent need for collective action to combat climate change. The Cryospheric Society of Nepal, under Dr. Chand's leadership, continues to play a pivotal role in raising awareness and advocating for the protection of these vital ecosystems. As the world grapples with the escalating impacts of climate change, the insights and expertise shared at this briefing are more critical than ever in guiding global efforts to safeguard our planet's cryosphere.