The Closest Glacier to a City Is Melting—Here’s How Scientists Are Fighting Back
Imagine a massive ice giant just a two-hour drive from a bustling city. That’s Urumqi Glacier No.1, sitting 130 km from Xinjiang’s capital and the closest glacier to any urban area on Earth 🌆. But this icy wonder is in trouble: global warming could erase it within 50 years if nothing changes. Enter researcher Wang Feiteng and his team, who’ve spent over six decades studying the glacier—and are now scrambling to save it.
❄️ The Ice Rescue Mission ❄️
Wang’s team is testing innovative methods to slow the melt, like artificial snowfall and reflective protective covers. Think of it as a giant “sunshield” for ice! 🛡️ Their work blends high-tech tools with boots-on-the-ground grit, but the clock is ticking. “This isn’t just about saving a glacier—it’s a wake-up call for climate action,” says Wang.
Why This Matters to You
Glaciers like Urumqi No.1 are natural water banks, feeding rivers that millions rely on. If it vanishes, ecosystems and communities could face irreversible impacts. 🌏💧 Young climate advocates are watching closely: “This isn’t just science—it’s our future,” said a 19-year-old environmental volunteer in Urumqi.
