In one of the planet's coldest places, high in the Himalayas, the glaciers are melting.
Some scientists are very worried about what will happen when the glaciers no longer feed freshwater into the rivers of Asia, while others contend that water may still flow to Asia. So scientists are now conducting detailed research to ascertain what exactly will be the impact of climate change in these areas.
In this report, James Mates of Independent Television News, walks around and through the glaciers and talks to the top glaciologists in the field.
Quotes
"Certainly, by the middle of this century, I think there could be a big leak here, no more ice left." Doug Benn, glaciologist, University of Saint Andrews
"Intuitively, one can say, if these glaciers disappear, then there's a problem. But we need much more detailed work to be done to say exactly what the impact will be in particular areas." Doug Benn, glaciologist, University of Saint Andrews
Warm Up Questions
1. Where does the water in rivers and streams come from?
2. Why is the ice on top of some mountains melting away?
Discussion Questions
1. What surprised you in this report?
2. How might nature adjust to the loss of glaciers on top of the Himalayan Mountains?
3. Does this report make you want to study glaciers? What kinds of school would you need to be a glaciologist?
4. Where does the water in a river near you come from? How healthy is that river?
Additional Resources
As Climate Change Conference Heats Up, Nations Hope to Cool Off Temps
