Climate change caused by human activities melts glaciers and ice sheets in Antarctica and Greenland and affects our water resources. The melting of glaciers at low latitude affects not only sea level rise but also the availability of water resources for humans. The problem is exacerbated in heavily populated areas like the foothills of the Himalayas where glacier melt affects year- round availability of water. Pumping of groundwater by humans also depletes aquifers faster than they get replenished by precipitation. Sea level rise will displace hundreds of millions of people and cost billions of dollars in adaption for any large city. Access to water resources is increasingly recognized as a growing source of conflict. Scientific observations and understanding of the Earth system is critical for policy makers and stake holders to make informed decisions about adaptation and mitigation strategies.

A light lunch will be provided.