THE ALPS, THE CLIMATE CHALLENGE

The grim realities of climate change

An episode from the series EARTH ON EDGE

Synopsis

Global warming is particularly noticeable in the Alps, in the heart of Europe. While the average temperature in France rose by more than one degree Celsius in the 20th century, it rose twice as much in the area.

As a result, the depth of snow on the ground, the extent of snowy areas, and the duration of snow cover are decreasing. According to IPCC studies, the glaciers have lost between 20 to 30% of their volume since 1980.

Without the snow that melts when spring comes, the Alps may no longer be able to play their role as "Europe's water basin".