Scientists have conducted a decades-long study revealing that melting glaciers have caused almost 2cm of sea level rise this century alone. The research shows the world’s glaciers collectively lost 6.542 trillion tonnes of ice between 2000 and 2023, leading to an 18mm (0.7in) rise in global sea levels.
On average, the world’s glaciers lost 273 billion tonnes of ice every year – equivalent to 30 years of water consumption by the entire global population. Regional losses vary; Antarctic and subantarctic islands lost 2% of their volume, while central Europe’s glaciers lost 39%.
A stark contrast in ice loss was discovered between decades. Between 2012 and 2023, 36% more ice melted compared to the previous decade. This confirms that glacier melting is accelerating over time.
Glacier loss leads to regional freshwater supplies being depleted for remote communities and those already facing water scarcity. Approximately 2 billion people depend on meltwater from glaciers, making their retreat a significant problem for society.
Additionally, glaciers are crucial for power generation, such as in Iceland where 70% of electricity comes from hydropower. Their loss impacts daily lives and exacerbates climate change predictions.
The study is part of the Glacier Mass Balance Intercomparison Exercise – known as Glambie – combining data from various satellite missions. Melting glaciers are the second-largest contributor to global sea level rises, following ocean warming.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2025/feb/19/melting-glaciers-cause-almost-2cm-of-sea-level-rise-this-century-study-reveals