Glaciers in the European Alps are likely to reach their peak rate of extinction in only eight years, according to a study, with more than 100 due to melt away permanently by 2033. The melting of glaciers driven by human-caused global heating is one of the clearest signs of the climate crisis. Under this scenario, glacier losses would peak at about 3,000 a year in 2040 and plateau at that rate until 2060. Larger glaciers take longer to melt, with those in Greenland reaching their peak extinction rate in about 2063 – losing 40% by 2100 under 1.5C of heating and 59% under 2.7C. The researchers said the peak loss dates represent more than a numerical milestone.

Source: The Guardian December 16, 2025 14:31 UTC