Cryospheric Change

Cryospheric change refers to the variations in Earth's frozen regions—such as glaciers, ice caps, sea ice, and permafrost—primarily driven by climate change. As global temperatures rise, these ice areas are melting and shrinking, leading to rising sea levels and altered ecosystems. Additionally, thawing permafrost can release stored greenhouse gases, further accelerating climate change. These changes impact global and local environments, influencing weather patterns, sea levels, and biodiversity, making cryospheric change a critical indicator and consequence of a warming planet.