Himalayan glaciers melting fast due to global warming

In this picture taken on October 13, 2008, shows a view of the Lirung Glacier in the Lantang Valley some 60 kilometres (37.5 miles) northwest of Kathmandu. The glacier has retreated at least two kilometres in recent decades, an effect of global warming that is worrying local residents. All across the world's tallest mountain range, glaciers are melting at rates ranging from between ten to 60 metres per year, causing a raft of short and long term problems. South Asian ministers will gather in Nepal next week for talks on the threat that climate change poses to the Himalayas and the 1.3 billion people who depend on water that flows from the mountains. Experts say the Himalayan glaciers are melting at an alarming rate and with months to go before a key summit in Copenhagen, mountain nations are hoping to highlight the myriad of problems facing the region. Climate change campaigners refer to the Himalayas as the "third pole" and say the melting glaciers are the biggest potential contributors to rising sea levels after the north and south poles

This undated handout picture shows a view of Lake Imja Tsho in a valley situated south of Mount Everest in Nepal. South Asian ministers will gather in Nepal next week for talks on the threat that climate change poses to the Himalayas and the 1.3 billion people who depend on water that flows from the mountains. Experts say the Himalayan glaciers are melting at an alarming rate and with months to go before a key summit in Copenhagen, mountain nations are hoping to highlight the myriad of problems facing the region. Climate change campaigners refer to the Himalayas as the "third pole" and say the melting glaciers are the biggest potential contributors to rising sea levels after the north and south poles.