The retreat of glaciers has significant impacts on the water cycle and water supply. As glaciers shrink, they contribute less meltwater to rivers and streams, resulting in reduced water availability downstream. This not only affects freshwater supply for drinking and agriculture but also disrupts ecosystems and biodiversity. To adapt, we can implement water conservation measures, invest in alternative water sources, and promote sustainable water management practices. This event will focus on the high-risk area of cryosphere melting and glacier retreat, highlighting its impacts and the IAEA's efforts, particularly, isotope hydrology role in addressing this issue in Central Asia and beyond. The discussion will also explore implementation actions ahead of the conference in Tajikistan on 2025 International Year of Glaciers Preservation, aiming to strengthen the relationship and pave the way for high-level events at the Dushanbe Conference 2025.

Speakers

• Prof Stefan Uhlenbrook, Director on Water and Cryosphere, WMO?
• Dr Johannes Cullmann, Director on the Partnership, IHE Delft Institute for Water Education?
• Mr Martin Krause, Director, TCPC, Technical Cooperation, IAEA ??
• Dr David Rounce, Glaciologist, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, USA

Moderator

Ms Yuliya Vystavna, Senior Water Programme Officer, IAEA?