Switzerland and Italy forced to redraw their Alpine border due to climate change
The border between Switzerland and Italy, once defined by Alpine glaciers, had to be redrawn due to their melting. This environmental change and rising global temperatures have prompted a modification of the border beneath Matterhorn.
Glaciers across Europe, the fastest-warming continent, are retreating at an accelerated pace due to the human-driven climate crisis. Significant portions of the Swiss-Italian border, historically defined by glacier ridges and areas of perpetual snow, have shifted as the ice melts. This has forced both nations to reassess and adjust their borders.
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Melting Alpine glaciers prompt border reassessment
Switzerland officially approved a revision agreement on 27 September, while Italy has yet to do so. The agreement, drafted by a joint Swiss-Italian commission in May 2023, sets new boundaries in line with the economic interests of both countries, according to Bloomberg.
Among the areas affected is the renowned Swiss ski resort of Zermatt. Italy and Switzerland have agreed to redefine the border around landmarks such as Testa Grigia, Plateau Rosa, Rifugio Carrel, and Gobba di Rollin, all near the summit of the Matterhorn. In response to new climatic realities, this border clarification will also help determine which country is responsible for maintaining certain natural areas.
Alpine glaciers are disappearing at a dizzying rate
Statistics released in September revealed that Switzerland's glaciers lost 4% of their volume in 2023, marking the second-largest loss on record, following a record 6% loss in 2022. In some parts of Switzerland, experts have ceased measuring the ice on certain glaciers because they have entirely disappeared.
Meanwhile, Italian experts warned this month that the Marmolada glacier, the largest and most iconic glacier in the Dolomites, could vanish entirely by 2040 due to rising average temperatures.
Source: theguradian.com
