health
Ecociencia warns of glacier loss in Ecuador despite apparent recovery
Ecuador's glaciers continue to retreat despite recent apparent increases in their surface area, which are due to temporary snow accumulation and not real recovery, according to an alert from the Ecociencia Foundation.
TL;DR
- Ecuadorian glaciers are in a state of 'sustained loss,' with recent apparent surface area increases due to temporary snow accumulation, not structural recovery.
- Historical data shows a clear and concerning trend of progressive reduction in glacial surface area since 1985.
- Major volcanoes like Antisana, Cayambe, Cotopaxi, Chimborazo, El Altar, Iliniza, and Carihuairazo have experienced dramatic and critical glacial retreat.
- The recent increases in snow cover do not constitute consolidated glacial ice and do not alter the overall trend of retreat.
- The progressive disappearance of glaciers impacts water availability, Andean productive systems, high mountain ecosystems, and the livelihoods of local communities.