On March 22, the world observes World Water Day. The theme for 2025 is "Glacier Preservation"
"Glaciers are melting faster than ever. Due to climate change, our planet is continuously warming, leading to a reduction in the Earth's ice-covered areas, which makes the water cycle more unpredictable.
Changes in glacial meltwater flows cause floods, droughts, landslides, and rising sea levels, endangering the lives of billions of people. Many communities and ecosystems face the risk of destruction. Within the framework of joint efforts to mitigate and adapt to climate change, the preservation of glaciers is a top priority. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions is essential to slow the rate of glacier melting and ensure more stable management of meltwater. Preserving glaciers is a strategic measure for the survival of humanity and the planet," the United Nations official website states:
Facts About Glaciers
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In 2023, glaciers lost more than 600 gigatons of water, marking the largest mass loss in the past 50 years (WMO).
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About 70% of the Earth's freshwater exists in the form of snow or ice (WMO).
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Nearly 2 billion people rely on glaciers, snowmelt, and mountain springs for drinking water, agriculture, and energy (UN Water/UNESCO).
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Rapid glacier melt significantly impacts global sea level rise. Currently, sea levels are about 20 cm higher than in 1900 (IPCC).
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If global warming is limited to 1.5°C, it will be possible to preserve two-thirds of the UNESCO World Heritage glaciers (UNESCO/IUCN).
Armenia's Water Resources and Impact of Climate Change
As a mountainous country, Armenia has limited water resources, primarily fed by snowmelt, springs, and groundwater. The country also faces challenges related to water scarcity, pollution, and climate change. According to Armenia's Fourth National Climate Change Report, by 2100, the river inflow into Lake Sevan is expected to decrease by approximately 30-35%, negatively affecting the lake's vital resources. Evaporation from the lake, influenced by changes in precipitation and temperature, is also projected to increase. Estimates suggest that evaporation from the lake's surface will rise by about 10% by 2040, 20-25% - by 2070 , and 35% by 2100.
In a pessimistic scenario, river flow could decrease by up to 39% by 2100. A 25% reduction in river flow would lead to a 24% decline in the productivity of irrigated land.
Armenia's average temperature has already increased by 1.6°C. Forecasts indicate that by 2070, the temperature will rise by 3.3°C, and by 2100, by 4.7°C. River flow is expected to decrease by 14% by 2040, 28% by 2070, and 39% by 2100. The inflow into Lake Sevan could decline by about 34% or 265 million cubic meters compared to the baseline period (1961-1990).
To mitigate the negative effects of climate change on water resources, 26 measures have been developed as part of "Climate Change Adaptation Program in the Water Resources Sector and the 2022-2026 Action Plan" approved by the Government of Armenia.
March 22, 2025 at 17:40