Darkening Peaks: Glacier Retreat, Science, and Society

"Retreat of mountain glaciers ranks alongside sea level rise and extermination of species as one of the greatest threats posed by continued global warming. The authoritative picture painted in Darkening Peaks should help bring humanity to its senses and to spur the actions needed."—James E. Hansen, NASA Goddard Institute for Space Studies

"This important and timely book elucidates how glacier retreat is affecting physical, biological, and human systems simultaneously. The authors' perspectives from mountain regions worldwide provide key insights at both global and local scales."—Cynthia Rosenzweig, Earth Institute, Columbia University

"From an impressive range of disciplinary perspectives and geographic locations, Darkening Peaks provides a refreshing look at the real complexities involved with the causes and consequences of environmental change."—Roger A. Pielke, Jr., author of The Honest Broker: Making Sense of Science in Policy and Politics

"Glaciers play a major role in teaching us about our planet's past, and in warning us about its future. They inspire fear, awe, and fascination. Whatever your interest in glaciers, you will find this rich, broadly ranging volume exciting."—Jared Diamond, author of Guns, Germs, and Steel and Collapse

"Darkening Peaks is a dazzling fusion of hard science, historical narrative, and cultural context that outlines social responses for coping with our changing environment."—Stephen H. Schneider, Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change

"Combining the latest research results from the social and natural sciences, Darkening Peaks succeeds in giving a timely and detailed account of the cultural perceptions, scientific observations, trends, impacts, and responses associated with glacial retreat. Highly recommended."—John Schellnhuber CBE, Chief Science Advisor to the German government and Director, Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research