Shock Report: Most Glaciers in Western Canada Face Certain Disappearance, Say Researchers

Climate change is dramatically affecting glaciers in Western Canada and the U.S. A recent study reveals that even if global warming stopped today, about 75% of these glaciers would still vanish. The research warns that if temperatures rise to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, a staggering 81% of glacier mass could disappear. By 2100, with a rise of 2.7°C, almost all of Western Canada’s glaciers could be gone.

Harry Zekollari, a glaciologist leading the study from Belgium’s Vrije Universiteit Brussel, explains that a team used advanced models to predict these losses. They expect that approximately 80% of Western Canada’s glaciers are already “doomed,” even without further warming.

Interestingly, Western Canada faces higher melting rates due to its unique geographical features. Glaciers here can’t retreat to higher altitudes as many others do, making them particularly vulnerable. Meanwhile, Canada’s southern Arctic glaciers are also on the brink of destruction, positioning them as one of the most endangered in the world.

Co-author Lilian Schuster from Universität Innsbruck adds a glimmer of hope: under ambitious climate actions, a tiny fraction of glacier ice could still be preserved. But if we continue on our current path, around three-quarters of glacier mass is set to disappear.

Research shows around two million people globally rely on glaciers for water, agriculture, and drinking. In Canada, glaciers cover over 200,000 square kilometers, making it the most glacierized country worldwide. But from 1985 to 2020, British Columbia and Alberta alone lost over 1,100 glaciers, and the speed is increasing.

As glaciers melt, they can cause landslides and other environmental dangers. For example, a 2020 incident triggered a major flood in B.C. after a glacier destabilized a nearby slope. Brian Menounos, a glaciologist from the University of Northern British Columbia, notes that this study reinforces previous findings about the precarious state of glaciers in the region.

So, what does this mean for the environment and the economy? Glaciers play a vital role in hydropower generation. In B.C., they currently contribute to about 10% to 20% of the annual flow of the Columbia River, critical for hydroelectricity. But as climate projections suggest more erratic weather, we may see more rain in winter and less water in summer, leading to challenges for water supply. BC Hydro, the main electricity provider, has been monitoring these changes for years.

Tourism is also at risk. Doug Washer, CEO of Head-Line Mountain Holidays in Whistler, highlights how decreasing ice affects tourism. The stunning blue ice caves are now more like “chunks of Swiss cheese,” signaling a troubling trend. He worries about the future of his business and the broader ecological consequences for the region.

The landscape filled with glaciers is evolving rapidly. The Wedgemount glacier, for instance, has receded over 700 meters since 1973, and it continues to melt at an alarming rate. Menounos emphasizes that our focus should now shift to adaptation strategies for when these glaciers are completely gone. He points to Switzerland’s efforts to protect alpine glaciers and believes similar initiatives should be explored here, especially in consultation with local First Nations.

Overall, the rapid melting of glaciers in Western Canada is a stark reminder of climate change’s impact. The loss of these icy giants will reshape our environment and challenge our economy. Understanding the full consequences and beginning to adapt is imperative for a sustainable future.

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