Glacier retreat and risks of glacial lake outburst floods: UNESCO at the Regional Ecological Summit 2026

Accelerated glacier retreat is being observed across Central Asia. Under a high-emissions scenario (SSP5-8.5), the region could lose up to 85% of its total glacier ice volume by 2100. This increases pressure on water resources, infrastructure and populations, while also raising the risk of natural hazards, including glacial lake outburst floods.

As these processes are transboundary in nature, coordinated responses among countries are essential. In this context, the UNESCO Regional Office in Almaty will participate in the Regional Ecological Summit (RES 2026), to be held from 22 to 24 April in Astana, Kazakhstan.

As part of the Summit, UNESCO will organize two thematic sessions and a seminar (23-24 April) focused on cryosphere degradation, water resources and disaster risk reduction in Central Asia. These events are implemented under the GEF-UNDP-UNESCO Cryosphere Project and the Adaptation Fund-supported GLOFCA project.

UNESCO's programme includes:

The cryosphere session will focus on the link between changes in high mountain ecosystems and regional water availability. A key highlight of the session will be the presentation of the Joint Subregional Action Programme (JSAP), a framework document aimed at strengthening joint glacier monitoring, data exchange and coordinated adaptation measures.

The early warning systems session will present practical results of the GLOFCA project, including the implementation of early warning systems at pilot sites, monitoring of glacial lakes, and community-based risk reduction measures. The session will also include the official handover of equipment to national authorities, including early warning system components, ensuring their continued operation and sustainability.