Shrinking glaciers in the European Alps: the case of the Gepatschferner

The decrease in extent and volume of mountain glaciers represents one of the most visible consequences of climate change in mountains. Mountain glaciers are commonly regarded as a sensitive instrument to observe the combined effects of the changes of a number of climatic variables such as temperature, solar radiation, evaporation and precipitation. With the exception of some maritime regions, glaciers are retreating worldwide. Glaciers in the European Alps are no exception with smaller glaciers disappearing at an alarming rate and larger glaciers shrinking visibly in extent. Article in Mountain Forum Bulletin: Melting Mountains - July 2007