Objective:
Glaciers are a crucial source of freshwater for millions of people worldwide, yet they are rapidly disappearing due to climate change. In the framework of World Water Day 2025: Glacier Preservation, the International Water Resources Association (IWRA) is organising a webinar to highlight the urgent need for action to protect these vital water reserves. This webinar will bring together experts to discuss the latest scientific findings, policy responses, social initiatives, and innovative solutions for glacier conservation.
Background:
Since 1993, the United Nations (UN) celebrates World Water Day every year in March. It is a special occasion to highlight the fundamental importance of water resources and its sustainable use around the globe. IWRA also sits on the UN Water Task Force.
Speakers
- Felicia-Adriana Vacarelu, Communications Manager, UN-Water.
Presentation: World Water Day 2025 – Glacier Preservation. - Dr Koen Verbist, Programme Specialist, UNESCO Intergovernmental Hydrological Programme (IHP).
- Dr Philippus Wester, Senior Water & Climate Researcher, the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD); IWRA Fellow Member.
- Juan Carlos Alurralde, Secretary-General, the Vice Presidency of Bolivia.
Presentation: Melting Promises: Are Climate Negotiations Enough to Save Our Glaciers? - Paula Pacheco, Researcher, Agua Sustentable.
Presentation: Glacier Loss and Indigenous Communities: Adapting to a Changing Water Future.
Moderator: Dr Renée Martin-Nagle, Secretary-General, IWRA; President and CEO, A Ripple Effect
Closing Remarks: Dr David Molden, IWRA Honorary Member; former Director General, ICIMOD and Deputy Director General, International Water Management Institute (IWMI)
Presented by: Arturo Salazar, Webinar Officer, IWRA
IWRA Webinars constitute an additional resource designed to help our members, academics, dedicated practitioners, and policy professionals further explore these and other timely themes engaging in fruitful discussions, also aligned with the international water agenda and in close collaboration with key partners.
