Mexico's glaciers are melting fast – Level 2

Mexico has lost most of its glaciers over the last few decades. Glaciers are big blocks of ice found on some of the highest mountains in Mexico, like Pico de Orizaba and Iztaccíhuatl. Since the 1960s, around 80% of these glaciers have melted away. This happens mainly because the Earth is getting warmer, a problem called global warming. One volcano, Popocatépetl, has lost almost all its glaciers, partly because of volcanic activity too. Scientists warn that if the warming continues, these glaciers might disappear completely in just a few years.

This loss of glaciers affects many things. Glaciers slowly melt and provide water to rivers and farms. Without glaciers, rivers may dry up, making it harder for people and plants to get water. This hurts farms that grow important crops like coffee and cocoa. It also lowers the amount of water available to produce electricity in hydroelectric plants. Many communities depend on the glacier water, so losing glaciers means humans and nature both face problems with getting enough clean water.

Glaciers also help keep mountain environments healthy. They control temperatures and help water flow steadily in rivers. Without glaciers, animals and plants that live in these places could be in danger. Scientists say the only way to stop glaciers from melting is by fighting global warming. This means reducing pollution and protecting mountain areas. If nothing changes, Mexico could lose all its glaciers very soon, which would cause serious challenges for people and the environment.

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 Time to discuss

• Why do glaciers matter for people and nature?
• What might happen if all glaciers in Mexico melt away?
• How can we help stop glaciers from melting?

Let's write

Answer the following questions in one paragraph:

• Describe how glacier loss could affect your community.
• Explain what people can do to protect glaciers.