The year 2025 has been declared the International Year of Glacier Preservation by the United Nations. And 21 March has this year been established in the calendar as "World Glacier Day". This is intended to raise global awareness of the importance of glaciers, snow and ice for the climate system and the water cycle, and to draw attention to the consequences of glacier retreat.

UNESCO and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) have declared 2025 the International Year of Glacier Preservation. The aim is to further advance global efforts to protect this vital ice.

Around 70% of the world's fresh water is stored in glaciers and ice sheets. The summer meltwater runoff supplies around two billion people with drinking water and ensures ecological balance and economic stability. Due to climate change, glaciers are shrinking worldwide at a dramatic rate.  

Background

In December 2022, the UN General Assembly adopted the resolution declaring 2025 the International Year of Glacier Preservation, and proclaimed 21 March of each year from 2025 onwards as World Glacier Day. UNESCO and the WMO were tasked with its implementation.

Glaciers play a crucial role in regulating the climate. They also form a vital source of fresh water for billions of people. The ever more rapidly progressing climate change, which has been predominantly human-caused since the 19th century, is leading to a dramatic loss of glaciers worldwide.

Find out more about the goals and importance of glaciers at www.unesco.at