2025 the International Year of the Glaciers’ Preservation – Why is a landsystems approach in glacial research important during a period of warming climate

Abstract

The United Nations has declared 2025 as the International Year of Glaciers’ Preservation. Additionally, starting from 2025, March 21 is recognized as the World Day of Glaciers. The International Year of Glaciers’ Preservation 2025 and World Day for Glaciers were proposed by Tajikistan adopted by a UN General Assembly resolution inviting UNESCO and WMO, in cooperation with UN Member States and relevant organizations to facilitate their implementation. The 2025 International Year aims to raise awareness on the impacts of climate change on glaciers and mountains by highlighting the critical functions of glaciers, and the implications of climate change for ecosystems, water resources and local populations and their livelihoods. As a contribution to the World Day the UK National Commission for UNESCO intends to compile a short report that demonstrates the veracity of relevant UK glaciological/hydrological activity. Dr Ailsa Guild was invited to submit a contribution to this report around her research on outlet glaciers in Iceland. This talk will cover this contribution, which is focused on a case study of an outlet glacier from Southeast Iceland- Svínafellsjökull. This research uses a landsystem approach which exemplifies the relationships between climate change, glacier dynamics, and the resulting hazards that pose risks to nearby communities. As glaciers continue to retreat and the frequency of associated hazards increases, a thorough understanding of these processes becomes ever more crucial. By integrating structural glaciology, geomorphological mapping, and hazard assessment, researchers can develop comprehensive models that not only enhance our understanding of glacial landsystems, but also provide vital information for mitigating risks to human life and property in vulnerable areas. The findings from this research highlight the need for proactive measures to safeguard communities against the growing threats posed by glacial hazards, ensuring that both current and future generations can navigate the challenges of a changing climate Overall this research shows that understanding changes in glacial landsystems allows a better understanding of the geo-hazards these landsystems pose to local communities during a period of increased risk to geohazards through climate changes.

Please contact [email protected] if you wish to join online.