The Qinghai-Xizang Plateau, often referred to as the “Roof of the World,” is experiencing significant climatic changes. New research led by Yao Tandong, an academician with the Chinese Academy of Sciences, reveals that the plateau is becoming warmer, wetter, and greener.
At a press conference held in Lhasa on Sunday, Yao discussed findings from the second Qinghai-Xizang Plateau scientific expedition and research, which began in 2017. The mission aims to uncover the mechanisms behind environmental changes on the plateau and to provide scientific support for its ecological security.
“The glaciers and snow cover on the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau are decreasing, while the vegetation is greening,” Yao stated. The transformation of the plateau’s environment is not just a local concern; it has broader implications for the region and beyond.
“Such changes could lead to significant shifts in the Asian monsoon circulation, potentially increasing the frequency of extreme weather events in China,” warned Yao, who leads the scientific research survey. These shifts may alter weather patterns, affecting agriculture, water resources, and the livelihoods of millions.
The warming and greening of the plateau highlight the intricate connections between climate systems and underscore the importance of ongoing research and environmental monitoring. As the highest and largest plateau on Earth, changes in the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau’s environment can have cascading effects across Asia.
