| Keyword |
Description |
| Glacier |
A large mass of moving ice found high in the mountains |
| Ecosystem |
The community of plants, animals, and their environment in a particular place |
| Greenhouse gas |
Gases that trap heat in the atmosphere and cause global warming |
Mexico has lost about 80% of its glaciers since the 1960s, causing serious concerns for water supplies and the environment. According to UNESCO, the glaciers on Mexico’s volcanoes and highest peaks, like Pico de Orizaba, Iztaccíhuatl, and Popocatépetl, have almost disappeared. For example, Pico de Orizaba once had 204 glaciers, but now just 37 remain. On Iztaccíhuatl, only 10% of the original ice persists and it could disappear completely within a few years. Popocatépetl’s glaciers have already vanished, mostly because of global warming and volcanic activity.
The disappearance of glaciers is already affecting important agriculture in Mexico, such as coffee and cocoa production, and hurting the ability to generate hydroelectric power. Local communities also rely on melted glacier water to feed rivers and springs, so the shrinking glaciers put even more pressure on other water sources that are already overused. As a result, it is becoming harder for people to access fresh water.
Glaciers do more than just provide water; they are key to mountain ecosystems. They help control temperature and humidity and keep rivers stable. Without glaciers, unique animals and plants in these high places are put at risk. The loss of glaciers means these ecosystems could change forever, making it even more urgent to protect them.
Experts say the only lasting solution is to stop global warming. This means cutting greenhouse gas emissions, protecting mountain areas by law, and teaching people why glaciers matter. If nothing changes, Mexico could lose all its remaining glaciers in just a few years.
Bridging words
These words sound similar in English and Spanish: Why not practice them now?
| English |
Spanish |
| Volcanic activity |
Actividad volcánica |
| Cocoa production |
Producción de cacao |
| Gas emissions |
Emisiones de gases |
Time to discuss
- Why are glaciers important for people and nature?
- What might happen if all glaciers in Mexico disappear?
- How can young people help protect the environment?
Let's write
Answer the following questions in one paragraph:
- Explain how the loss of glaciers could affect a local community.
- Describe what people and the government could do to stop glacier loss.
