Mountain glaciers ‘facing up to 80% reduction’ without cut in greenhouse gases

Glaciers in the Hindu Kush and Himalayan mountain ranges could lose up to 80% of their current volume this century without a sharp reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, according to a new report (Robin Lardon/Alamy/PA)

Glaciers in the Hindu Kush and Himalayan mountain ranges could lose up to 80% of their current volume this century without a sharp reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, according to a new report.

The report by the Kathmandu-based International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development warns that flash floods and avalanches would grow more likely and the availability of fresh water would be affected for nearly two billion people who live downstream of 12 rivers that originate in the mountains.