Glaciers, Climate, and the Violin: How to Maintain an Optimistic Outlook on the Future

On Shrinking Glaciers, New Perspectives, and the Power of Collective Action

In light of ongoing climate change, how can we remain optimistic about the future? And how can we tackle the major challenges of our time without losing hope? We addressed these questions at a partner event hosted by the Rotary Clubs Bad Ragaz. Together with glaciologist Felix Keller and the foundation’s president, Thomas Spiegelberg, we from “Glaciers Alive” had the opportunity to help organize the evening and discuss the future of glaciers, the consequences of climate change, and possible solutions with the guests.

Glaciers: Much More Than Just Ice

In his presentation, Felix Keller demonstrated how glacier retreat is continuing and what effects this trend is having on our water resources. After all, glaciers are not only impressive natural landscapes, but also important natural water reservoirs.

The examples from Central Asia and South America, in particular, made it clear just how closely the livelihoods of millions of people are tied to glaciers. When these water reservoirs shrink, it’s not just the landscape that changes. The availability of water and, consequently, the living conditions of many people come under pressure as well. These connections make it clear that the future of glaciers extends far beyond mountainous regions. It affects us all.

Identifying Challenges, Finding New Approaches

At Glaciers Alive, we explore how we can address this trend and create new perspectives for the future. The evening in Bad Ragaz provided an opportunity to share our experiences, build on our ideas, and brainstorm possible solutions together. Because even though the challenges are great, we don’t have to limit ourselves to the role of observers. Research, innovation, and collective engagement open up new possibilities for dealing with change and actively shaping the future.

Musical ending

The musical ending showed that an evening devoted to glaciers and climate change doesn't have to be all about serious topics. Felix Keller on violin and Thomas Spiegelberg on bass created an evocative fusion of nature and music.

The music provided a special ending and served as a reminder that our commitment is not just about numbers, data, and scientific findings. It’s also about our relationship with nature, what we want to preserve, and our shared responsibility toward future generations.

We would like to express our sincere thanks to the Rotary Club of Bad Ragaz for the invitation and for the open and enriching discussion.