CFC4 - Climbing for Climate 4th edition
In the breathtaking surroundings of the Italian Alps, I had the
privilege to participate in the annual "Climbing for Climate" (C4C)
event, organized by Italian universities. This unique event not only
allowed me to embrace the beauty of nature but also shed light on the
pressing issue of climate change. Our journey took us to the heart of
the Alps, the majestic Mont Blanc, where I witnessed firsthand the
effects of global warming on our environment.
The C4C event began with a trek to the Miage Glacier. It was a humbling
experience to stand amidst the serene beauty of the glacier while being
acutely aware of the rapid rate at which it is melting. The impact of
climate change became more than just a scientific concept; it became a
tangible reality.
Later on, Rifugio Torino, nestled in the Valle d'Aosta, provided the perfect backdrop for a workshop on the importance of glaciers and their integral role in our ecosystem. We learned about the significant contribution glaciers make to our water resources, biodiversity, and global climate regulation. These frozen giants are shrinking at an alarming rate, and their decline has far-reaching consequences.
The Impact on My PhD Thesis:
As a researcher working on my PhD thesis, this experience was invaluable. Witnessing the direct impact of climate change on geosites and geological heritage reinforced the urgency of my work. It is no longer an abstract concept; it is a real and immediate threat to the world's natural heritage.