Lakes will soon replace glaciers as a characteristic element
of the Alpine landscape. A study within the National Research Programme
"Sustainable Water Management" (NRP 61) analysed the potential of
these lakes (present and future) in terms of tourism, hydro-electric power and
natural dangers.
As a result of climate change, Alpine glaciers are
retreating. Today, they lose 2-3% of their surface area and volume each year.
At this rate, there will be only very few remaining glaciers at high altitude
by the end of the 21st century. Their retreat often leads to the formation of
new mountain lakes.