Discussing the role of natural water towers, Prof. Jiang Yunzhong, Regional Executive Secretary of GWP China, noted, "Glaciers serve as the 'source' of water, while mountain ecosystems function as the 'umbrella' of the water cycle. Yet, climate change is disrupting this balance." The preservation of glaciers and mountain ecosystems is crucial for human survival and advancement. It is imperative to enhance scientific management, ecological restoration, and global cooperation.
GWP China, in collaboration with IWHR, has completed and launched the Chinese version of the Executive Summary of the "World Water Development Report 2025" today, ahead of World Water Day on March 22, 2025. Mountains and glaciers are fundamental to global water security, acting as natural reservoirs that store and gradually release water. However, the report warns that climate change, glacier melt, and unsustainable human activities pose threats to these systems, with potentially catastrophic repercussions for both highland and lowland communities.
Mountains and glaciers are essential for global water security, acting as natural reservoirs that store and release water gradually. However, the report warns that climate change, glacier melt, and unsustainable human activities are threatening these systems, with potentially catastrophic consequences for both highland and lowland communities.
Key Findings of the Report:
1. Climate Change Accelerating Glacier Melt:
The report underscores that global warming is causing glaciers to retreat at unprecedented rates. This not only reduces long-term water storage but also increases the risk of glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs), which can devastate downstream areas.
2. Mountains as Water Towers:
Mountains contribute disproportionately to global freshwater resources, supplying up to 60-80% of the world’s freshwater. Major river systems, such as the Ganges, Yangtze, and Amazon, rely heavily on mountain runoff.
3. Growing Water Stress:
As glaciers shrink and snowpacks diminish, the timing and availability of water are becoming less predictable. This is particularly concerning for regions dependent on seasonal meltwater for agriculture, drinking water, and hydropower.
4. Impact on Biodiversity and Ecosystems:
Mountain ecosystems are home to unique biodiversity, but they are increasingly vulnerable to climate change, deforestation, and pollution. The loss of these ecosystems could disrupt water cycles and further exacerbate water scarcity.
5. Call for Global Action:
The report urges immediate action to protect mountain and glacial ecosystems. Recommendations include strengthening international cooperation, investing in sustainable water management, and implementing policies to mitigate climate change.
“Mountains are the lifelines of our planet, providing water to over half of humanity,” said UN Secretary-General António Guterres. “But these water towers are under siege. We must act now to safeguard these critical resources for future generations.”
Dr. Maria Neira, Director of the UN World Water Assessment Programme, added, “The 2025 report is a wake-up call. The world cannot afford to ignore the plight of mountains and glaciers. Their health is directly linked to our survival.”
The report highlights specific regions at risk, including the Himalayas, Andes, Alps, and Rocky Mountains. In Asia, for example, over 1.5 billion people depend on water from the Hindu Kush Himalayan region. Similarly, in South America, the Andes provide critical water resources for agriculture and urban centers.
A Call to Action:
The *World Water Development Report 2025* concludes with a stark warning: without urgent action, the world risks losing its most vital water sources. The report calls for a global commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, protect mountain ecosystems, and invest in adaptive water management strategies.
As the world grapples with the dual crises of climate change and water scarcity, the fate of mountains and glaciers will play a decisive role in shaping the future of water security. The time to act is now.