Tourist Duncan Porter shared a viral vacation photo showing the drastic difference in the Rhône Glacier in the Swiss Alps over a 15-year period, highlighting the effects of climate change. The photo, which has been seen by over 4 million people, shows pools of gray water where a large mass of ice once stood. The region is warming at twice the global average, with Swiss glaciers losing water volume rapidly. Glacier scientist Daniel Farinotti has observed the retreat of Rhône Glacier by about a third of a mile since 2007. The Swiss government is working to address the climate changes that are threatening local customs as glaciers shrink. Porter encourages individuals to take action in their communities and advocate for systemic change through voting and shopping habits. He believes there is a “huge amount” individuals can do day to day to combat climate change, despite the heartbreaking changes being witnessed in the Swiss Alps. The speed of change is alarming, with glaciers melting at a rate that far exceeds what was seen over the past few decades. The urgency of the situation calls for collective action to reverse the impacts of global warming on such iconic natural wonders.
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