Glaciers and permafrost: Function and conservation

This chapter presents an overview of glaciers and permafrost in the Hindu Kush Himalayan (HKH) region. The importance of glaciers and permafrost is described, along with threats to these natural resources. There is an urgent need for action to preserve glaciers and permafrost, and case studies on ecological restoration and local livelihoods related to glacial permafrost are presented. Furthermore, strategies for protecting and managing glaciers and permafrost are proposed. Finally, there is a discussion on the adaptation and transformation of methods adopted to mitigate the impact of climate change and how to protect these essential natural resources for future generations. Overall, the emphasis is on the urgent need to study and protect glaciers and permafrost in the HKH area for the well-being of the millions of residents and the sustainability of the environment.