In Switzerland, scientists have tested a new method to save rapidly melting glaciers. Two sheep's wool blankets were laid on the Zermatt Glacier in Western Switzerland. Researchers want to find out if these wool coverings can prevent ice melt during the summer period.
Previously, special synthetic covers were used to protect ice masses from strong sunlight and heat. These covers reflect sunlight, reducing heat absorption by the ice. However, because they are made of plastic, there is a risk of microfiber release. Therefore, scientists began testing a natural alternative—wool.
This experiment is part of the 'Keep It Wool' project, jointly conducted by the Summit Foundation and the University of Lausanne. In addition to preserving glaciers, another goal of the project is to find a use for wool that is currently considered useless in Switzerland.
In June, scientists placed two wool coverings on an area of about 200 square meters near the Zermatt Glacier. These coverings were created by the Swiss company Fisolen. Throughout the summer, the team has been comparing the effectiveness of the wool blankets with the synthetic ones. Every two weeks, the group checks the degree of ice melt under both types of coverings.
Initial results have been very encouraging. According to the scientists, the wool covers managed to prevent ice melt as well as their synthetic counterparts, exceeding expectations.
One reason for conducting this research is that annually, about 40–70 percent of the wool obtained from sheep in Switzerland goes unused and is discarded. If this wool can be used to protect glaciers, it will allow for waste reuse. Wool is a natural material that decomposes over time, unlike plastic synthetic covers.
The project participants also observed how long the wool coverings maintain their properties in the cold and humid environment of the glacier. Initially, there was concern that the wool would not last long. However, during the tests, it turned out that the wool covers were more durable than expected.
The team also positively assessed how they function. Nevertheless, this is only preliminary data, and further study of the experiment is planned. Scientists emphasize that wool coverings are not a complete solution to the problem of glacier melt. Their use is only possible for the temporary protection of specific areas of the glacier. Furthermore, such coverings are applied to only about 0.02 percent of the total area of Swiss glaciers, which limits their overall impact.
For the long-term preservation of glaciers, the world needs to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, including decreasing the use of fuels such as coal, oil, and gas. Although wool covers can partially help preserve ice, the true way to save glaciers remains curbing temperature rise.