Ice stupas: The artificial glaciers helping combat the effects of climate change
Water scarcity is a growing issue for communities living in mountainous regions. Climate change has caused glaciers to shrink, reducing the availability of meltwater that these areas rely on. In Ladakh, India, an innovative solution has emerged: ice stupas. These artificial glaciers are built during the winter to store water and gradually release it in the spring, helping farmers and communities get through dry months.
Ice stupas are an example of how creative, nature-based solutions can address the challenges posed by climate change. By providing a reliable source of water, they are making a difference for those most affected by global warming.
The science behind ice stupas is simple yet effective. During winter, water is collected from streams and piped to higher-altitude areas. The water is sprayed out through a nozzle, and because of the cold temperatures, it freezes as it falls. Over time, the frozen water builds up into a large cone-shaped structure.
The shape of the ice stupa is key to its success. Its conical design reduces the surface area exposed to sunlight, which means it melts more slowly than flat ice surfaces. As a result, the ice lasts longer, often well into the spring months when water is most needed.
Some ice stupas can reach heights of 30 meters (100 feet) and store millions of litres of water. When they melt, the water is channelled to nearby fields, providing a steady supply for irrigation and other needs.
Water is a lifeline for communities in Ladakh, but it is becoming harder to come by. This high-altitude region has an arid climate, with very little rainfall, so people depend on glacial meltwater. However, as glaciers shrink due to rising temperatures, the availability of meltwater during spring has become unpredictable.
Ice stupas offer a practical solution. Storing water in the winter and releasing it slowly in the spring provides farmers with a reliable water source during critical growing periods. In Ladakh, this has allowed people to grow crops like barley and wheat, which are essential for their livelihoods and food security.
Ice stupas are more than just a water source—they bring a range of benefits to communities. Farmers rely on water for their crops, especially during spring when snowmelt alone is not enough. Ice stupas ensure that there is enough water to irrigate fields, leading to better harvests and more food for local families.
Farmers can depend on their crops for income with a steady water supply, reducing economic risks. This stability helps communities avoid the high costs of importing water or relying on less sustainable methods like pumping groundwater.
Ice stupas are a green solution. They use gravity and freezing temperatures—both natural forces—to store water, requiring very little energy. Unlike large-scale dams or other water projects, ice stupas have minimal impact on the environment and blend into their surroundings.
Local people play a central role in building and maintaining ice stupas. This not only reduces costs but also gives communities the knowledge and skills to take control of their water problems. Residents strengthen their ties and build resilience against future challenges by working together.
Ice stupas are a great example of how traditional knowledge and modern science can come together to solve pressing problems. They offer a simple, sustainable, and effective way to address water scarcity, helping farmers, supporting economies, and empowering communities in the face of climate change.
Governments, organisations, and researchers must invest in its development to make the most of this technology. We can help vulnerable communities adapt to a changing climate by scaling up ice stupas and improving their design.
