As the world gears up for the United Nations’ declaration of 2025 as the International Year of Glaciers’ Preservation, all eyes turn to the melting giants of ice that grace our planet’s poles and mountains. The UN’s decision to mark March 21st as World Glacier Day emphasizes the urgent need for global attention on glacier conservation.
China, with its 14th Five-Year Plan and Long-Range Objectives Through the Year 2035, is taking significant strides toward green development and fostering harmony between humans and nature. The commitment to environmental sustainability is more than just policy—it’s a movement inspiring individuals across the globe.
One such individual is Hu Jiaojiao, explorer and founder of PolarHub. Armed with a camera and a passion for adventure, she embarked on an international women’s rafting expedition in New Zealand, a land known for its breathtaking glaciers. Through her journey documented in “The Wander Lens,” Hu experienced firsthand the impacts of climate change. A moment of realization struck when melting glaciers nearly led to an enormous personal loss, underscoring the fragility of these natural wonders.
“Standing amid the vastness of the melting ice, I felt the urgency like never before,” Hu recalls. “It’s not just about the glaciers; it’s about the future we’re leaving for the next generation.”
Hu’s story is a call to action for young people everywhere. Through “The Wander Lens” project, cameras are sent out to individuals from all walks of life, inviting them to capture hidden gems and everyday moments that highlight the beauty of our world. From snowy peaks to sunlit classrooms, every frame becomes a testament to life’s wonders and a reminder of what we stand to lose.
As teenagers and young adults in the Global South, your voices and actions matter. Protecting glaciers isn’t just a cause for scientists or explorers; it’s a global mission that requires all of us to participate. Whether it’s through raising awareness, adopting sustainable practices, or sharing stories like Hu’s, every action counts.
The journey toward ecological protection is a collective one. As Hu Jiaojiao emphasizes, “Protect glaciers, safeguard the future—let’s act together!”
