Researchers at ETH Zurich have made a groundbreaking prediction regarding the fate of the world's glaciers, with a new study estimating that thousands of glaciers will vanish by the end of the century. The study, led by the Chair of Glaciology, found that if global temperatures rise to 4.0 C, only about 18,000 glaciers would remain worldwide, while limiting warming to 1.5 C could preserve roughly 100,000 glaciers.

According to the study, the researchers introduced the concept of "Peak Glacier Extinction," which marks the year when glaciers reach their maximum rate of loss. The findings suggest that every fraction of a degree of warming could decide the fate of glaciers, with the researchers emphasizing that even small changes in temperature can have a significant impact on glacier survival.

The study's lead author, Lander Van Tricht, noted that the results are a stark reminder of the urgent need for climate action. "Our study highlights the importance of limiting global warming to 1.5 C to preserve the world's glaciers," Van Tricht said. "The consequences of inaction will be catastrophic, with thousands of glaciers disappearing forever."

The researchers used advanced modeling techniques to estimate the number of glaciers that would survive under different warming scenarios. The study found that the Alps, which are home to some of the most iconic glaciers in the world, would be particularly hard hit, with many glaciers disappearing by the mid-21st century.

The loss of glaciers would not only have significant environmental impacts but also have far-reaching cultural and economic consequences. Glaciers are a major tourist attraction, and their disappearance would likely have a devastating impact on local economies. Additionally, glaciers play a crucial role in regulating global sea levels and providing freshwater resources.

The study's findings have significant implications for policymakers and climate activists, who are urging governments to take immediate action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and limit global warming. "This study is a wake-up call for governments around the world," said a spokesperson for the United Nations Environment Programme. "We must take urgent action to protect the world's glaciers and prevent the worst impacts of climate change."

The study's results are based on a comprehensive analysis of glacier data from around the world, including the Morteratsch Glacier in Switzerland, which is one of the largest ice caves in the Alps. The glacier's rapid disintegration is a striking example of the accelerating glacier loss that is occurring globally.

The researchers are now working to refine their models and provide more detailed predictions of glacier loss under different warming scenarios. The study's findings are a sobering reminder of the urgent need for climate action and the importance of preserving the world's glaciers for future generations.