8Glaciers Are Gigantic Freshwater Reservoirs
Glaciers store about 69% of the world’s freshwater, making them one of the planet’s most vital resources. If all the glaciers and ice sheets were to melt, global sea levels would rise by an estimated 230 feet (70 meters), drastically reshaping coastlines and affecting millions of people. Greenland’s ice sheet alone holds enough water to raise sea levels by 20 feet (6 meters).
Despite being frozen, glaciers are essential to maintaining the global water cycle. In many regions, glacier meltwater is a critical source of freshwater, especially during dry seasons. For example, in parts of the Himalayas and the Andes, glaciers act as “water towers” that supply water to millions of people downstream.
