Half of the world’s population faces severe water scarcity for part of the year, and the situation is worsening as mountains and glaciers the planet’s natural water towers are melting rapidly, according to the United Nations World Water Development Report 2025.
The report highlights that glacier retreat is threatening freshwater supplies for over two billion people worldwide. The crisis is further compounded by the fact that 3.5 billion people lack access to safely managed sanitation, creating a severe water security challenge.
With 2025 designated as the “International Year of Glaciers’ Preservation”, the UN is emphasizing the urgent need for global action to protect these critical freshwater reserves. Scientists warn that unchecked global warming could accelerate glacier loss, worsening droughts, water shortages, and extreme weather events across the globe.
As the world grapples with rising temperatures, the question remains: Can we protect our water towers before it’s too late?