Glaciers in Indonesia's Papua region face total disappearance
Historic glaciers on Puncak Jaya are expected to melt completely within the next few years due to global warming and climate change.
The famous glaciers on Mount Puncak Jaya in Indonesia's Papua region, which have existed for centuries, have reached the point of complete disappearance due to the impact of the climate crisis.
Rapid Disappearance of Historic Glaciers
The ice cover on Puncak Jaya, located in the Sudirman Range of Indonesia's Papua region, is melting rapidly due to global warming and climate change. Scientists predict that the remaining last pieces of snow and ice will completely disappear within the next year or two.
Glacier Loss from Past to Present
A century ago, permanent ice and snow cover existed across the four main peaks of the Sudirman Range. The glacier area, which was approximately 1,900 hectares in the 19th century, has shrunk to around just 16 hectares today.
Cultural and Spiritual Impacts
The melting of the glaciers brings profound cultural and spiritual consequences for indigenous communities such as the Amungme and Moni, who view the sacred ice as a fundamental pillar of their identity and heritage.