environment
March 24, 2026
Ecociencia alerts about the loss of glaciers in Ecuador despite their apparent recovery
Ecuador's glaciers continue to recede despite apparent recent increases in their surface area, which respond to temporary snow accumulation and not a real recovery, according to an alert from the Ecociencia Foundation.
TL;DR
- Ecuador's glaciers continue on a path of sustained loss, despite recent apparent increases in surface area.
- The apparent increases are due to temporary snow accumulation, not structural regeneration of the glacial system.
- Historical analysis from 1985 shows a clear and worrying trend of progressive surface reduction in Ecuadorian glaciers.
- Significant losses have been recorded on volcanoes such as Antisana, Cayambe, Cotopaxi, Chimborazo, El Altar, Iliniza, and Carihuairazo, with some experiencing drastic reductions.
- The progressive disappearance of glaciers affects water availability, Andean production systems, high-mountain ecosystems, and the livelihoods of local communities.