Abstract

Patagonian glaciers (41°–56°S) have experienced strong volume losses and retreats during recent decades in response to the climatic changes affecting this part of Chile, contributing significantly to global sea level rise. These changes have had an impact on the region’s ecosystems, due to processes such as the expansion of fjords and lakes, altered hydrology and geology risks, higher sediment loads contributed to rivers, and changes in the altitude and composition of nearby vegetation. These factors affecting the ecosystem services provided by glaciers, such as runoff and flood regulation, slope stability, biodiversity, and cultural services they generate as one of the few remaining pristine components of the Earth. The recent changes in glacier volume make them highly vulnerable to the adverse effects of ongoing climate change, a condition that affects other Subantarctic natural systems of Chile. We emphasize the need to enhance the systematic monitoring of glacier volume and surface extent in Patagonia.