Climate Change Affects Glacial Water Source

ThinkTV, Teachers' Domain

This video discusses how the populous areas west of the Andes are largely desert and rely on glacial meltwater as an important source of fresh water. Because the Peruvian glaciers high in the Andes are in rapid retreat, scientists are monitoring the steadily shrinking glaciers and the impact of their reduction on local populations.

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Scientists from the Byrd Polar Research Center, who specialize in glaciers and water quality, discuss water quality and quantity issues related to glacial melt and the potential human impact. The direct link between retreating glaciers and available water resources for Lima, Peru is powerful. Comment from expert scientist: The video gives a reasonable explanation of the role of glaciers in the hydrology of Peru. It also introduces some of the water quality issues that might be encountered where water is a scarce resource.