How to Visit Glaciers Responsibly as the UN Declares 2025 the Year of Glacier Preservation
With glaciers vanishing at an alarming rate, the United Nations has declared 2025 as the International Year of Glacier Preservation. As climate change accelerates ice loss, here's how you can witness these majestic natural wonders safely and responsibly before they disappear.
The Urgency of Glacier Preservation
In July 2022, a tragic event highlighted the dangers of melting glaciers. Certified mountain guide Andrea Milani was rock climbing near the Italian Dolomites' Passo Fedaia ascent when a massive 80m-wide, 25m-high chunk of the Marmolada glacier broke off. The resulting avalanche claimed 11 lives, underscoring the risks posed by rising global temperatures.
“Now more than ever, climate change is making glacier travel more dangerous. Rising temperatures weaken the snow cover, increasing the risk of hidden hazards like crevasses and seracs,” says Milani, who leads guided expeditions across Northern Italy with Dolomite Mountains tours.
Why the UN Has Declared 2025 the Year of Glacier Preservation
The UN’s decision to make 2025 the International Year of Glacier Preservation is a response to alarming projections: one-third of the world’s glaciers could disappear by 2050, with some—like Marmolada—expected to vanish as soon as 2040.
To mobilize global action, 21 March 2025 has been designated as the first-ever World Day for Glaciers, in partnership with UNESCO and the World Meteorological Organization. The goal is to push governments and organizations toward reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adopting climate adaptation strategies to safeguard the planet’s 200,000 glaciers.
Patrick Gonzalez, former principal climate change scientist for the US National Park Service, explains, “Human-caused climate change has melted so much ice from glaciers that the resulting meltwater has raised global sea levels by 8cm since 1900.”
The Devastating Impact of Glacier Melt
Glacier retreat is causing drastic changes worldwide:
Chacaltaya Glacier, Bolivia: This 18,000-year-old glacier, once home to the world’s highest ski resort, has completely vanished.
Matterhorn Glacier, Switzerland-Italy: Ice melt forced Italy and Switzerland to redraw their shared borders in 2023.
Muir Glacier, Alaska: The glacier has lost a layer of ice as tall as New York’s One World Trade Center.
If all glaciers melted today, global sea levels could rise by half a meter, submerging cities, destroying ecosystems, and depriving two billion people of freshwater.
How to Visit Glaciers Safely and Responsibly
If you’re planning to visit a glacier, follow these guidelines to minimize your environmental impact:
Choose Sustainable Tour Operators: Opt for eco-friendly travel companies that prioritize conservation and responsible tourism.
Follow Designated Trails: Stay on marked paths to prevent damage to fragile ice formations and surrounding ecosystems.
Reduce Your Carbon Footprint: Use public transportation, carpool, or opt for low-emission travel options.
Respect Local Guidelines: Listen to guides, follow safety protocols, and avoid disturbing wildlife.
Leave No Trace: Avoid littering and carry reusable water bottles to reduce plastic waste.
Support Glacier Conservation Efforts: Donate to organizations focused on protecting glaciers and combating climate change.
The Future of Glacier Conservation
While visiting glaciers is a breathtaking experience, it’s crucial to remember that they are disappearing fast. Raising awareness, adopting sustainable travel habits, and supporting global conservation efforts can help protect these icy giants for future generations.
By traveling responsibly and advocating for climate action, we can all play a role in preserving the world’s glaciers—before it’s too late.
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