There has been a lot of talk about climate change in today's world. More scientists and politicians are taking it seriously than ever before. But is it too late? One look at the undeniable decline of glaciers in the region of Kilimanjaro is an unfortunate sign of things to come. Many scientists are even speculating that in 20 years, no glaciers will remain. Is it really that big of a deal? Read on and decide for yourself: More melting across the world. Lower altitude mountains such as Kilimanjaro work behind the scenes to give nearby civilizations the power they need to operate and sustain life. What the climate change on Kilimanjaro indicates is that other mountains across the world could soon be experiencing this very problem. Since 1912, Kilimanjaro has lost over 85 percent of its overall glacier capacity. Lack of hydroelectric power. Civilizations that surround Kilimanjaro rely on its glaciers to produce hydroelectric power, a very cost efficient way for these societies to rise above third world status. With the glaciers no longer in place, they will have to seek out other forms of power they will likely not be able to afford. No ability to irrigate crops. The glaciers of Kilimanjaro affect crop irrigation, allowing farmers in the region to produce enough food for all of the land to eat. Without these frozen monoliths to serve the people, food will be yet another scarcity for people in the area, and that will put a strain on all of civilization. Elimination of drinking water. No people can survive without drinking water, and since Kilimanjaro's glaciers are a great source for that found in the area, it is easy to see how climate change could have a ripple effect that would hinder the quality of life for everyone, not just those in the regions of Tanzania that surround the great mountain. Decline of wildlife. If people are affected by the consequences pertaining to farming, so, too, will animals. And with dwindling populations of species, that means less food for human beings as well. Global fallout. It is a possibility that no one wants to admit, but that all the nations of the world will have to acknowledge if they do not want to see the worst happen. Should life become unsustainable on account of changes in climate, then survival instincts will kick in. Residents of the area will seek new territories to live, and that relocation will produce serious strain on resources all over the world. Aside from that, climate change in Kilimanjaro is indicative of a greater temperature problem all over the world. The same problems that Tanzania could face as a result will likely affect other parts of the world, multiplying the possible catastrophes to come.
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