Himalayas’ glacier loss threatens 2 billion people in ‘greatest problem of climate change’

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🗞️ Driving the news: Rapid glacier retreat in the Hindu Kush Himalaya is threatening water security for more than 2 billion people, according to new research released by the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD)

🔭 The context: Scientists report that glaciers across the Hindu Kush Himalaya, often called the “water tower of Asia”, have been losing ice at twice the rate since 2000
• Smaller glaciers are disappearing particularly quickly, raising concerns about water shortages and climate-related hazards in countries including India, China and Nepal

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: Glaciers in this region feed some of Asia’s largest river systems, including the Indus, Ganges and Brahmaputra
• Their rapid decline threatens long-term freshwater availability, increases flood and landslide risks, and could destabilize ecosystems and agriculture across a region that supports nearly a quarter of the world’s population

⏭️ What’s next: Scientists warn that without major emissions cuts and stronger adaptation measures, glacier retreat will accelerate further this century, forcing governments across South and East Asia to rethink water management, disaster preparedness and regional cooperation.

💬 One quote: “The Hindu Kush Himalaya is facing the greatest problem of climate change.” — researcher cited in the ICIMOD glacier reports.

📈 One stat: Glaciers in the Hindu Kush Himalaya have been losing ice at roughly twice the rate since 2000 compared with previous decades

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