We're Melting - The Tale of Mount Kilimanjaro

Ernest Hemingway once praised its sheer epicness - The glacier atop Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania. Unfortunately, global warming has caused the mountain to lose 85% of its glacier since 1912. So if things go at the rate they have been, you better get to Tanzania within the next 15 years if you want to see the mountain in all of its white capped glory.

WHAT is going on?

The ice is melting faster and faster. As more ice disappears, dark rock underneath is exposed, and the hotter it gets on the mountain. This causes the glacier’s shrinking to increase exponentially.

And this isn’t just happening in Tanzania; glaciers in North and South America, New Guinea and Europe are disappearing as well.

Why does it MATTER?

Firstly, if you can’t appreciate one of the most grand, epic, and eye opening sights that this earth holds then that is cause for alarm in itself. However, there are other reasons why this is not a good thing and why you should care.

• Global Warming is happening - and fast. The melting glacial ice is a large scale indicator of climate change, and its power. Global warming is liquifying glaciers that have been around for thousands of years in the blink of an eye.
• Ecosystems are at risk
• People’s livelihoods are at risk. When you degrade the resources that tourism relies on, you lose your product. Kilimanjaro is a huge tourist attraction and helps bring in $50 million to the African nation every year. 

What will CHANGE this?

The key to stopping this complex phenomenon is reducing greenhouse gases. YOU as an individual need to be doing your part collectively. There are tons of resources out there that can help you become a better global citizen.

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Want to learn more?

Treehugger Article
Suzuki Foundation - Climate Change