Glacial retreat refers to the process by which glaciers lose mass and volume, primarily due to the melting of ice at the terminus and decreased snowfall. This phenomenon is a clear indicator of climate change, as rising global temperatures lead to accelerated ice melt, contributing to rising sea levels and altered ecosystems. The study of glacial retreat provides critical insights into the impacts of climate change on Earth’s surface processes and the associated consequences for human populations and natural habitats.
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