Glacier shrinkage driving global changes in downstream systems

Glaciers cover ∼10% of the Earth's land surface, but they are shrinking rapidly across most parts of the world, leading to cascading impacts on downstream systems. Glaciers impart unique footprints on river flow at times when other water sources are low. Changes in river hydrology and morphology caused by climate-induced glacier loss are projected to be the greatest of any hydrological system, with major implications for riverine and near-shore marine environments. Here, we synthesize current evidence of how glacier shrinkage will alter hydrological regimes, sediment transport, and biogeochemical and contaminant fluxes from rivers to oceans. This will profoundly influence the natural environment, including…

• SR
  Sight Research UK

  Awards: NE/E004148/1, NE/E004539/1, NE/M017478/1, NE/E003729/1
• EC
  European Commission

  Awards: EU-FP7, 212250
• ES
  European Science Foundation

  Award: EW12-013
• NE
  Natural Environment Research Council

  Awards: NE/E003729/1, NE/E004148/1, NE/M017478/1, NE/E003729/1, NE/L002574/1, NE/E004539/1, NE/L002574, NE/E004539/1, NE/E004148/1, NE/G523963/1