A marker shows how far the Althabasca Glacier extended in 1982. Photo: SL_Photography / Getty Images
Glaciers — “the fragile mirrors of climate change” — are melting at an alarming rate. Satellite images show that they are disappearing at a pace that is accelerating.
The consequences of their loss are profound. Melting glaciers affect sea levels, the salinity of oceans, the movement of ocean currents, and the health of marine ecosystems.
SEI and partners in the Adaptation at Altitude program have contributed to greater awareness about the plight of the world’s glaciers through a series of reflections by researchers writing about their professional and personal experiences with glaciers in different regions of the world. The series highlighted the UN’s designation of 2025 as the International Year of Glaciers’ Preservation. It concluded in March 2026 with the observance of the World Day for Glaciers.
Perspective / SEI Research Fellow Rosie Witton reflects on insights from her trips to many glaciers and "last-chance" tourism to rouse more support for climate action.
Perspective / On World Glacier Day, Aljandra Melfo reflects on her experiences witnessing the loss of glaciers and "the life inside the ice" in Venezuela.
Perspective / As part of the Adaptation at Altitude series marking the International Year of Glacier Preservation, Otto Simonett recalls the alpine glacier of his youth.
Perspective / Lina Rodriguez of the Adaptation at Altitude program reflects on the power of glaciers – those experienced and those missed.
Perspective / Mariam Devidze channels the voice of the facing Shkhara glacier for an Adaptation at Altitude series marking the International Year of Glaciers' Preservation.
