Atmosphere Journal Entry
Glacier on Kilimanjaro is Melting (November 1, 2002)
View of Kilimanjaro courtesy University of North Dakota.
Scientists say the glacier atop Tanzania's Mount Kilimanjaro is shrinking rapidly and may completely vanish within two decades. The conclusion is based on data from global positioning satellites, aerial maps, and stakes placed in the ground in the icy fields high up on the mountain.
Kilimanjaro is the largest volcano in a belt of about 20 volcanoes along the southern end of the East African Rift Valley. Maps made in 1912 show there were about 5 square miles (12 square kilometers) of ice on the mountain. The most recent map shows that less than one square mile (2.2 square km) of ice remains on Kilimanjaro, a decrease of about 80% over the past century.
Some scientists say rising global temperatures are to blame. Higher temperatures have led to a melting of many glaciers around the world. Evidence continues to grow suggesting that human activities such as the burning of fossil fuels are responsible for much of the increase.
When fossil fuels are burned, greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide are released into the atmosphere. The gases act like a blanket that traps the sun's heat in the atmosphere. The effect is similar to what happens inside of a greenhouse.
