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Rapid glacier retreat and downwasting throughout the European Alps in the early 21st century

Earth Sciences

Rapid glacier retreat and downwasting throughout the European Alps in the early 21st century

C. Sommer, P. Malz, et al.

This groundbreaking study by Christian Sommer, Philipp Malz, Thorsten C. Seehaus, Stefan Lippl, Michael Zemp, and Matthias H. Braun reveals alarming trends in glacier dynamics in the European Alps between 2000 and 2014. The researchers found a staggering ice mass loss of 1.3 ± 0.2 Gt a⁻¹ and extensive glacier retreat, underscoring the urgent consequences of climate change on these vital ecosystems and their role in water resources and tourism.

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Abstract
This study examines changes in glacier area, surface elevation, and ice mass in the European Alps between 2000 and 2014 using remote sensing techniques. Results show rapid glacier retreat (-39 km² a⁻¹) and regionally variable ice thickness changes (-0.5 to -0.9 m a⁻¹), with the strongest downwasting in the Swiss Glarus and Lepontine Alps. The total mass loss is estimated at 1.3 ± 0.2 Gt a⁻¹ (2000-2014). These findings highlight the significant impact of climate change on Alpine glaciers and their implications for water resources, risk assessment, and tourism.
Publisher
Nature Communications
Published On
Jun 25, 2020
Authors
Christian Sommer, Philipp Malz, Thorsten C. Seehaus, Stefan Lippl, Michael Zemp, Matthias H. Braun
Tags
glacier retreat
climate change
European Alps
ice mass loss
remote sensing
glacier dynamics
water resources

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