The retreat of glaciers has significant impacts on the water cycle and water supply. As glaciers shrink, they contribute less meltwater to rivers and streams, resulting in reduced water availability downstream. This not only affects freshwater supply for drinking and agriculture but also disrupts ecosystems and biodiversity. To adapt, we can implement water conservation measures, invest in alternative water sources, and promote sustainable water management practices. This event will focus on the high-risk area of cryosphere melting and glacier retreat, highlighting its impacts and the IAEA's efforts, particularly, isotope hydrology role in addressing this issue in Central Asia and beyond. The discussion will also explore implementation actions ahead of the conference in Tajikistan on 2025 International Year of Glaciers Preservation, aiming to strengthen the relationship and pave the way for high-level events at the Dushanbe Conference 2025.
Speakers
Prof Stefan Uhlenbrook, Director on Water and Cryosphere, WMO
Dr Johannes Cullmann, Director on the Partnership, IHE Delft Institute for Water Education
Mr Martin Krause, Director, TCPC, Technical Cooperation, IAEA
Dr David Rounce, Glaciologist, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
Moderator
Ms Yuliya Vystavna, Senior Water Programme Officer, IAEA
