Glaciers and mountains: melting water towers will aggravate global crises (report)

PRESS RELEASE   Glaciers and mountains: melting water towers will aggravate global crises (report) [EMBARGOED 21 MARCH 2025, 00:01 CET]   Paris/New York, 21 March 2025 – The United Nations World Water Development Report 2025, published by UNESCO on behalf of UN-Water, reveals the extent to which climate disruption, biodiversity loss, and unsustainable activities are transforming mountain environments at an unprecedented rate, threatening the water resources upon which billions of people and countless ecosystems depend. There is now an urgent need for international cooperation and adaptation strategies and actions to face the unfolding crisis in our mountains and glaciers. Click here to view the full report. "Regardless of where we live, we all depend in some way on mountains and glaciers. But these essential natural water towers are facing imminent peril," said Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of UNESCO. "This report demonstrates the urgent need for action and that the most effective solutions require a multilateral approach."   "Water flows downhill, but food insecurity rises uphill. The earth's mountains provide 60% of our freshwater, but the communities that safeguard these vital resources are among the most food insecure. We must invest in their resilience to protect glaciers, rivers - and a shared future for all of us," said Alvaro Lario, President of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and Chair of UN-Water.   Two billion people depend on mountain waters   According to the UN World Water Development Report 2025, mountains provide up to 60% of the world's annual freshwater flows. More than one billion people live in mountainous regions, and over two billion directly rely on water originating from mountains for their drinking water, sanitation, and livelihoods.   Mountain regions are vital to sectors such as pastoralism, forestry, tourism and energy production. In the Andean countries 85% of hydropower is generated from mountain areas. Mountains also provide high-value products such as medicinal plants, timber and other forest products, unique mountain livestock and speciality agriculture products – all of which are water-dependent.   However, the Report indicates that glaciers across the world are melting at unprecedented rates, and that mountain waters are often the first to be exposed – and the most vulnerable – to the severe consequences of climate and biodiversity disruptions.   Today the situation is critical: up to half of rural mountain dwellers in developing countries suffer from food insecurity, with women and children being most at risk. More broadly, the Report reveals that receding glaciers and dwindling snowfall in mountains will impact two-thirds of all irrigated agriculture in the world and will have wide-reaching implications for the vast majority of the population.   Glacier retreat is only the visible part of the threat   While images of receding glaciers capture the public's attention, they are just one example of the rapid changes happening in mountain areas. In many regions, freshwater flows depend more on seasonal snowpack melt than on glaciers.   Due to climate disruption, rapid changes in the amount, frequency and regularity of snowfall are severely disrupting the water supply, creating unstable environments for biodiversity, and unpredictable conditions for human livelihoods. In Japan, for example, the iconic snowcap on Mount Fuji, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has recently started appearing nearly one month later than usual.   These changes in precipitation are also increasing the risk of natural disasters such as droughts and glacial lake outburst floods. The Colorado River in North America, which serves about 40 million people, gets most of its water from snowfall in the Rocky Mountains. The river basin has been in drought since 2000. The situation may become exacerbated by warmer temperatures, which are causing more precipitation to fall as rain, which runs off more quickly than mountain snow.   Climate disruption is also being felt strongly in mountain regions with no recorded glaciers or snowmelt, where water flows originate instead from rainfall. In tropical regions, such as Madagascar, changes in mountain waters are impacting the irrigation of cacao, rice and fruit production – some of the island nation's most important agricultural exports.   Impactful solutions are multilateral   Despite their essential role, the Report highlights that mountain regions have been largely absent from global agendas. National policies for water, agriculture, industry and energy tend to favour more populous river basin areas, while mountains generally receive much less attention – or are often only considered as sources for downstream users.   This year marks the launch of the first-ever World Day for Glaciers on 21 March, emphasizing the need for immediate and coordinated international efforts, aligned with World Water Day on 22 March. UNESCO is co-leading the Day with WMO as well as the 2025 International Year of Glaciers' Preservation, a global initiative to mobilize resources and commitments for glacier conservation, and the Decade of Action for Cryospheric Sciences (2025-2034) to advance scientific understanding and policy solutions.   These major events must give rise to a new impetus for international cooperation for the protection of glaciers and mountain waters. Many mountain ranges and their ecosystem services are transboundary in nature: treaties or agreements can enhance cooperation through data and information sharing, help to fill gaps in human and institutional technical capacity, and promote and foster dialogue and diplomacy.   Drawing inspiration from existing cooperation projects   In response to the growing crisis outlined in the Report, there is an urgent need adapt to this new reality and strengthen water security worldwide through scientific research, policy coordination, and concrete action on the ground.   In Central Asia, UNESCO has recently mobilized USD 12 million to reduce disaster risks and enhance scientific cooperation, including a new regional glacier monitoring system deployed this year across the region's transboundary glacial massifs. UNESCO is also establishing an Early Flood Warning System in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan which will help protect over 100,000 people at risk from glacial lake outburst floods.   In Africa, UNESCO is leading the "Unlocking the Kilimanjaro Water Tower" project, funded with USD 8 million from the the Global Environment Facility. It will benefit more than 2 million people in Tanzania and Kenya who depend directly on the waters of Africa's highest peak. Experts from both countries will map the region's aquifer systems and give an additional 100,000 people direct access to drinking water. They will improve groundwater storage and supply during the dry season. This initiative will also restore 400 km² of degraded cloud forests and put more than 17,000 km² of protected areas under reinforced management.   Learn more Press Corner containing the full report, executive summary and factsheet [Embargo 21/03/2024, 00:01 CET] World Day for Glaciers, celebrated on 21 March World Water Day, celebrated on 22 March 2025 International Year of Glaciers' Preservation Decade of Action for Cryospheric Sciences (2025-2034) UNESCO World Water Assessment Programme (WWAP) UN-Water UNESCO Courrier on 'Vanishing Glaciers' About UNESCO   With 194 Member States, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization contributes to peace and security by leading multilateral cooperation on education, science, culture, communication and information. Headquartered in Paris, UNESCO has offices in 54 countries and employs over 2300 people. UNESCO oversees more than 2000 World Heritage sites, Biosphere Reserves and Global Geoparks; networks of Creative, Learning, Inclusive and Sustainable Cities; and over 13 000 associated schools, university chairs, training and research institutions. Its Director-General is Audrey Azoulay.   "Since wars begin in the minds of men, it is in the minds of men that the defenses of peace must be constructed" – UNESCO Constitution, 1945.   More information: www.unesco.org   About UN-Water   UN-Water is the United Nations inter-agency coordination mechanism for all freshwater-related matters, including sanitation. It represents 36 UN Agencies, Funds and Programmes and 49 international organizations who work together to address the cross-cutting nature of water and sanitation issues, to identify gaps and opportunities and to maximise system-wide coordinated action at the global, regional and country levels and across the United Nations pillars.   More information: https://www.unwater.org/     About the UN World Water Development Report   The United Nations World Water Development Report is published by UNESCO on behalf of UN-Water and its production is coordinated by the UNESCO World Water Assessment Programme. The report gives insight into the main trends concerning the state, use and management of freshwater and sanitation, based on work by Members and Partners of UN-Water. Launched in conjunction with World Water Day, the report provides decision-makers with knowledge and tools to formulate and implement sustainable water policies. It also offers best practice examples and in-depth analyses to stimulate ideas and actions for better stewardship in the water sector and beyond.   Press contacts UNESCO : François Wibaux, f.wibaux@unesco.org, +33 1 45 68 07 46 UN-Water : Felicia VACARELU, felicia.vacarelu@unwater.org, +41 (0)79 9371995   UNESCO Newsroom All our press releases   Social media

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UNESCO, 7, place de Fontenoy, PARIS, NA FRANCE France

PMML and ANRF invite applications for Fellowships/ Grants

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CESP-JNU Lecture on Knowledge Policy and Its Contradictions | 13 March

CESP-JNU Lecture on Knowledge Policy and Its Contradictions | 13 March

Kilimanjaro: UNESCO invests $8 million to protect water resources

PRESS RELEASE   Kilimanjaro: UNESCO invests $8 million to protect water resources   Dar es Salaam, 7 March 2025 – The Director-General of UNESCO has announced a new initiative to protect water resources and biodiversity in the Kilimanjaro region. This $8 million project, combining scientific research and support for local populations, will benefit the more than 2 million people who depend directly on the waters of Africa's highest peak.   "The melting glaciers of Kilimanjaro, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987, pose an imminent threat to more than two million people in Tanzania and Kenya. The international community must support the authorities and local populations to protect this vital resource. Our Organization will be investing $8 million to this end over the coming years", announced Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of UNESCO, on the sidelines of a meeting with Samia Suluhu Hassan, President of Tanzania.   This major initiative, led by UNESCO in partnership with the FAO, will be financed by the Global Environment Facility. It will begin with increased support for scientific research: UNESCO experts will map the region's aquifer systems, with a view to giving an additional 100,000 people direct access to drinking water. The aim will also be to improve groundwater storage and supply during the dry season to benefit 615,000 people who are currently exposed to water shortages.   A scientific observation center will be set up to monitor water quality, groundwater levels and the health of ecosystems. It will be founded upon close cooperation between researchers in Kenya and Tanzania. An initial constitutive meeting was held this week in Arusha. UNESCO also plans to train a further 200 water professionals at the national and local level.   The central role of cloud forests   UNESCO will also support the restoration of ecosystems by reforesting 400 km² of cloud forests, which play an essential role in water retention as well as replenishing groundwater reserves. The Organisation will support local communities in developing sustainable economic activities to prevent further deforestation.   Today, the iconic 'water tower' that is Mount Kilimanjaro suffers from the combined pressures of climate disruption, deforestation and increasing water demand. The melting of its glaciers, which could disappear completely by 2040, combined with increasingly recurrent droughts, threaten the availability of water and the stability of ecosystems in Kenya and Tanzania. The initiative announced by Audrey Azoulay is part of the International Year of Glacier Preservation, led by UNESCO and the WMO. The first World Day for Glaciers will be held on 20 March.   Soon a dedicated centre for the Kiswahili language   During her meeting with the President of Tanzania, the Director-General of UNESCO also reaffirmed the Organization's willingness to support the country's authorities in the management and development of Biosphere Reserves – a UNESCO programme aimed at restoring the balance in the relationship between human beings and their environment.    UNESCO will also continue to support Tanzania in safeguarding and promoting the Kiswahili language. National authorities plan to open a dedicated institute in the near future. UNESCO stands ready to contribute its expertise when the time comes by training professionals, networking with other language centres around the world and developing content linked to the General History of Africa.   About UNESCO   With 194 Member States, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization contributes to peace and security by leading multilateral cooperation on education, science, culture, communication and information. Headquartered in Paris, UNESCO has offices in 54 countries and employs over 2300 people. UNESCO oversees more than 2000 World Heritage sites, Biosphere Reserves and Global Geoparks; networks of Creative, Learning, Inclusive and Sustainable Cities; and over 13 000 associated schools, university chairs, training and research institutions. Its Director-General is Audrey Azoulay.   "Since wars begin in the minds of men, it is in the minds of men that the defenses of peace must be constructed" – UNESCO Constitution, 1945.   More information: www.unesco.org   Press contact François Wibaux, f.wibaux@unesco.org, +33 1 45 68 07 46   UNESCO Newsroom All our press releases   Social media

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Join Today CSSS-JNU National Workshop on "Science, Technology and Society Studies in India: Emerging Trends"

 CSSS-JNU National Workshop on "Science, Technology and Society Studies in India: Emerging Trends"

Joining Link: https://meet.google.com/dcp-vimn-ivt

Press preview of the 2025 World Water Report: How melting glaciers will worsen global water crisis

PRESS INVITATION   Press preview of the 2025 World Water Report: How melting glaciers will worsen global water crisis   UNESCO invites you to an online press briefing to preview the results of its 2025 UN World Water Development Report, focusing this year on glaciers and mountain waters. The report will provide the latest data on the essential role of glaciers and will address the threat that their melting poses to thousands of communities throughout the world.   What? Preview of the 2025 UN World Water Development Report Where? Online Press Briefing When? Thursday, 13 March 2025. French 10:00 CET,  English 15:00 CET Who? Abou Amani, head of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Hydrological Programme, and Heïdi Sevestre, glaciologist Accreditation: Click here to register for this event   The World Water Development Report is the United Nation's flagship report on water, published each year by UNESCO on behalf of UN-Water. The 2025 Report will be officially released and presented at UNESCO Headquarters on 21 March, marking the first World Day for Glaciers.   This press briefing will offer journalists an early opportunity to collect all the findings of the report and learn how it impacts their own region and audience. The full report will be shared with you under embargo on this occasion.   Climate disruption and unsustainable human activities are transforming glaciers and mountain environments at an unprecedented rate, threatening the water resources upon which billions of people and countless ecosystems depend.   UNESCO's leading water expert and Head of the Intergovernmental Hydrological Programme, Abou Amani, will present the Report's key findings, delve into specific case studies and respond to questions from the press. World-renowned glaciologist and climate expert Heïdi Sevestre will share her first-hand experience witnessing rapidly changing glacial environments through her field research in polar and mountain regions.   Learn more World Water Day, celebrated on 22 March Past editions of the World Water Development Report UNESCO World Water Assessment Programme (WWAP)   Press contact François Wibaux, f.wibaux@unesco.org, +33 1 45 68 07 46   UNESCO Newsroom All our press releases   Social media

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​AANCBEJU organizes a Heritage Walk in Humayun Tomb complex | 2nd March at 10 am | Registration closes soon

AANCBEJU is happy to announce organising a Heritage Walk in Humayun Tomb complex and the adjoining, recently opened underground Museum having exhibits focussing on Mughal era in India.

Date: 2nd March 2025
Time: 10 am sharp
Duration : 3 hours approximately
Participation fee : Adult 300/-
                             Children 200/-
Last date for registration 25/02/2025

Contact Person: Mr. Debadatta Ray 7466888823.

Registration amount to be paid to the AANCBEJU Bank Account.

Note:
We will provide snacks packet, and water bottle to each participant.
Ticket cost for both Humayun Tomb complex and museum included.
Ample car parking is available ( parking area on left side just after taking a left turn from main road).
One knowledgeable person will guide us in the heritage walk.
Considering the trend of temperature on the higher side, participants can carry umbrellas/Sunglasses.
Name of the Alumni member and no of participants in the list.
Payment may please be done via UPI or direct bank transfer during the time of enrolment.
Participants shall arrange their own transport to come for the heritage walk.
In case of any clarification you may contact the Event Convener Mr. Debadatta Ray 7466888823.

Payment Options for Registration:

NEFT/IMPS Transfer:
Payee: ALUMNI ASSOCIATION NATIONAL COUNCIL OF EDUCATION
Bank: Union Bank of India, Kalkaji Branch
IFSC: UBIN0914746
Account No: 520101254168041

UPI Transfer:
UPI-ID: QR919911479926-8041@unionbankofindia 

Dr. Triguna Sen Memorial Lecture on 1st March at IIC Annex | Registration closes soon

Join us for the Dr. Triguna Sen Memorial Lecture at the INSPIRE event, featuring Key-note Speaker Smt. Soma Mondal, the first woman Director and Chairman of Steel Authority of India (SAIL).

Smt. Mondal, a trailblazer in the corporate world, will share her inspiring journey and leadership insights on "Empowering Tomorrow's Women Leaders to Break Barriers."
Date : 1st March 2025
Time : 2.30 - 5.00 PM
Venue: India International Centre  Annex
Fee : Rs 201/-
Payment Options for Registration:

NEFT/IMPS Transfer:
Payee: ALUMNI ASSOCIATION NATIONAL COUNCIL OF EDUCATION
Bank: Union Bank of India, Kalkaji Branch
IFSC: UBIN0914746
Account No: 520101254168041

UPI Transfer:
UPI-ID: QR919911479926-8041@unionbankofindia 

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Dr. Anup Kumar Das
Centre for Studies in Science Policy
School of Social Sciences
Jawaharlal Nehru University
New Delhi - 110067, India

anup_csp[@]jnu.ac.in

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SCSNEI, JNU organises 13th Jayshree Roy Memorial Lecture by Amb. SS Menon , 28 Feb

SCSNEI, JNU organises 13th Jayshree Roy Memorial Lecture by Amb. SS Menon, 28 Feb

Fwd: Global Ministerial Dialogue on Science Diplomacy | 25-26 March 2025

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On behalf of UNESCO, you are cordially invited to the Global Ministerial Dialogue on Science Diplomacy which will take place on 25–26 March 2025 at the UNESCO Headquarters in Paris.   This Ministerial Dialogue takes place at a time when most SDGs are not on track, geopolitical complexities and rapid technological advancements are reshaping our global landscape, making science diplomacy instrumental in bridging divides.   Organized in the framework of the International Decade of Sciences for Sustainable Development, sessions will center on the role of science diplomacy in the following priority areas: Responsible management of shared natural and scientific resources Responding to and mitigating damage to science systems in times of crisis Balancing open science and the protection of sensitive information Equitable collaboration on development and responsible use of new and emerging technologies.    The Dialogue will consist of two main components over two days: 25 March 2025: a multistakeholder conference convening experts, scientists, and diplomats to explore and assess innovative science diplomacy frameworks and approaches in today's complex global context 26 March 2025: the ministerial segment providing a platform for Ministers to discuss their priorities and explore concrete areas for future collaboration.   Details and registration links can be found on the conference website: Global Ministerial Dialogue on Science Diplomacy.   UNESCO Science Diplomacy Team

SIS Comprehensive Research Methodology Course for Research Scholars of Social Science | 18-27 February, JNU

Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi
Centre for International Trade and Development
School of International Studies

Invites Applications for 
Comprehensive Research Methodology Course for Research Scholars of Social Science

18-27 February 2025 

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