Three B.C. glaciers to disappear within decades due to climate change, SFU study finds

A new study from Simon Fraser University warns that three glaciers in British Columbia's southwest could vanish entirely within the next few decades. The Whistler Glacier, which has already shrunk by 95 percent in 50 years, may be gone within 10 years. The Horstman and Blackcomb glaciers have lost up to 75 percent of their area and could melt away in 30 to 70 years. Researchers say these losses are a direct result of climate change driven by past and current carbon emissions, and the damage is already locked in for these smaller glaciers. The study also highlights the broader implications. The retreat of these glaciers has already forced the end of summer skiing at Whistler Blackcomb, affecting tourism. But the bigger concern is that larger glaciers in Canada and worldwide are at risk unless emissions are cut soon. Glacier melt also contributes to sea level rise and affects water supply for communities and hydropower. The authors emphasize that while these three glaciers cannot be saved, meaningful emission reductions now can still prevent the loss of larger ice masses and the worst impacts downstream.