GlacierHub18
Glaciers bring us valuable insights as they sit on the frontlines of climate change. Each week, GlacierHub shares stories about lessons to humanity in the form of changing water supplies, natural resource conflicts, omnipresent natural hazards and threats to biodiversity. It describes the responses of indigenous peoples, scientists, artists, local communities and organizations to the challenges brought by glacier retreat—demonstrating the relevance of the world’s high icy places for all humankind.
-
Glacier Melt Leads to Increased Carbon Dioxide Levels Due to These Tiny Fungi
New research links reduced glacier cover to higher rates of fungal decomposition of organic material. If these rates continue to rise, it could further disrupt the carbon cycle.
-
Warming in Norwegian Fjord Causing Changes in Seabird Populations
A recent study examines how shifts in water temperature and coastline glaciers create challenges and opportunities for seabirds in Norway’s Hornsund fjord.
-
What Climate Change Adaptation Programs in Peru Are Missing: Indigenous Women’s Knowledge
A number of development programs in the high Andes involve Indigenous men but exclude women herders, preventing the potentially vital exchange of knowledge.
-
Can a New Type of Glacier on Mars Aid Future Astronauts?
A recent publication identifies evidence of glacial activity and underground ice on Mars in an unusually flat and temperate area, which could serve as a future human landing site.
-
Glacier Melt to Redirect Alaska’s Alsek River, Endangering World-Famous Rafting Route
As a glacier in southern Alaska melts, a major river is likely to shift course within the next decade, putting the future of local fisheries and a popular rafting path at risk.
-
Geotextiles Could Slow Glacial Melt, but at What Cost?
Swiss ski resorts are using geotextiles to prevent accelerated glacial melting, but researchers have found this strategy too expensive for use in global-scale glacier protection.
-
Microplastics Are Affecting Melt Rates Of Snow And Ice
Current measurements and instruments do not take into account the effect that microplastics have on snow and ice, potentially overestimating the role of black carbon.
-
‘Terminal Moraine’ Artists Intend to Bring Brooklyn Back to its Glacial Roots
An upcoming installation at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden intertwines the sounds of glacial recession and tree growth to help visitors connect with the area’s history.
-
How Climate Change Is Affecting Sea Squirts In Antarctica
As melting glaciers alter ecosystems in and around Antarctica, scientists study how sea squirts react.
COP31, the 2026 United Nations Climate Change Conference, aims to advance dialogue, strengthen consensus, and accelerate climate action on a global scale. From November 9–20, 2026 in Antalya, Türkiye, heads of state, ministers, scientists, business leaders, and civil society will gather to advance efforts in emission targets, climate finance, and adaptation and resilience. Once again, our experts, students, and global thought leaders from Columbia Climate School and across Columbia University are contributing to key events, sharing insights, and helping shape the dialogue toward ambitious, science-based solutions. Learn More
