❄️ What is the cryosphere and why is it important? ❄️

The cryosphere is the frozen component of the Earth system. This includes snow, all forms of ice (on land and at sea), as well as frozen ground, known as permafrost. The cryosphere includes three primary regions: the Arctic, Antarctic, and high mountain areas. The cryosphere plays a vital role in maintaining the Earth’s climate and provides essential services to humans and animals alike. As the climate continues to warm, cryospheric changes result in diminished services as well as increased risk and frequency of hazards and impacts.