My View
One line that really highlights the issue to me is when it is stated that the glacier has retreated 15 metres in the last 6 months. Unfortunately we don't know the context, if the glacier has retreated this amount in the time of year when the mass balance shifts more to ablation than accumulation then perhaps this is not so surprising. If it is in the time where the glacier should be accumulating mass then there is certainly a severe problem, unfortunately we are not told in which season.
The later part of the video also mentions the fact that no snow on the ground results in less sun being reflected (albedo) than if there were snow on the ground which only increases the glacial melt rate.
It strikes me the reporter has taken a pessimistic approach, are there any positive outcomes attached to glaciers melting rapidly?
ReplyDeleteHas any considered the idea of converting the gradual melt into any form of energy builder; erosion of ice, creates flowing water which could be perhaps contained into an energy source for the inhabitants of the area?
A strong point Z. Something I am looking in to, but as of yet it doesnt seem like people are prepared to utilise the extra meltwater that may be coming their way!
ReplyDeleteSorry to jump on the comment wagon but I have a point Id like to add. Both of you
ReplyDeletehave rightly stated that discharge from rivers fed by glaciers are likely to
increase in the short-term, however I disagree with the suggestion that resources
should be focused on making the most of this short-term increase. Surely it would be
better to spend resources on maximising the efficiency of industry to ensure that
the highest possible output is obtained per unit of water used? By doing this, they
could then utilise the short-term increase and also help to put measures in place to
cope with increased water stress in the future.
Emily, my first comment from a fellow geographer, a pleasure to hear from you! I don't think the suggestion was made that resources should be directed to the short term utilisation of the extra meltwater. My personal comment merely suggested that at the moment in the short term, people and countries are not utilising the extra meltwater. However, your point is entirely valid in my opinion. Development for the future is necessary and obtaining maximum efficiency is something that should be high on any industries agenda. Especially with regard to the energy sector, I great deal of energy could be generated by utilising the force of the meltwater.
ReplyDelete(hope this answers any queries)