Source-This post on Humboldt Glacier is based on the article “How did Venezuela’s Humboldt glacier shrink to an ice field?” published in “Down to Earth” on 17th May 2024.
Why in the News?
The International Cryosphere Climate Initiative (ICCI) has reported that Venezuela’s last glacier Humboldt or La Corona in the Andes has become too small to be qualified as a glacier.
About Humboldt Glacier
1. About Humboldt Glacier: It is also known as Sermersuaq Glacier, which is one of the major glaciers in northern Greenland. It borders the Kane Basin in North West Greenland.
2. It holds the distinction of being the widest tidewater glacier in the Northern Hemisphere.
3. The standard size for an area to be considered a glacier is approximately 10 hectares.
4. The Humboldt glacier in Venezuela has diminished to less than 2 hectares in size, prompting a downgrade in its classification from a glacier to an ice field.
Current State of the glacier
Venezuela has once hosted 6 glaciers in the Sierra Nevada de Mérida, now it has none. The last Humboldt glacier melted faster than expected and has been reclassified as an ice field due to its reduced size.
Causes of Melting
a) Climate Impact: Experts attribute the accelerated melting to rising temperatures driven by climate change and the recent El Niño phenomenon, which exacerbates the warmth.
b) Lack of Monitoring: Political turmoil in Venezuela has hindered consistent scientific monitoring of the glacier.
The Venezuelan government attempted to slow the melting by installing a thermal blanket over the glacier, but experts consider this measure ineffective.
About Global Context and Future Outlook
1. The International Cryosphere Climate Initiative (ICCI) noted that Venezuela is likely the first modern nation to lose all its glaciers. Other countries at risk of becoming glacier-free include Indonesia, Mexico, and Slovenia.
2. The high-mountain region of Asia has also seen significant glacier loss due to record high temperatures and dry conditions.
3. Experts warn that glacier melting may be irreversible, stressing the importance of protective measures to preserve remaining glaciers.
About International Cryosphere Climate Initiative
1. Formation: It was established in 2009 following the COP-15 summit in Copenhagen. ICCI is a pivotal network aimed at cryosphere preservation.
2. Mission: The initiative involves a collaboration of senior policy experts and researchers who work closely with governments and various organizations.
3. Goal: The goal is to develop and implement strategies that help preserve as much of Earth’s cryosphere as possible.
4. Focus Areas: ICCI’s efforts concentrate on the unique climate dynamics affecting three key cryosphere regions: the Arctic, the Antarctic, and high mountain areas.
5. The organization plays a critical role in adding urgency to global climate change efforts, particularly concerning CO2 and other greenhouse gases. It emphasizes the swift and profound global implications of cryosphere warming.
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