The International Skating Union (ISU) has announced its full support for the International Year of Glacier Preservation, a United Nations (UN) initiative that seeks to raise awareness of the crucial role of glaciers in the climate system and the urgent need to protect them. This commitment aligns with ISU’s Vision 2030 and its Sustainability Strategy 2023-2030, which prioritizes environmental protection and responsible ice management.
THE GLACIER CRISIS
Officially launched on January 21, 2025, the International Year of Glacier Preservation highlights the urgent need to address the alarming state of glaciers worldwide. Due to climate change, glaciers are melting at an accelerating rate, which has contributed to a 23 cm rise in sea level since 1990. This situation underscores the critical importance of taking immediate action for their preservation.
Glaciers not only regulate the Earth’s climate, but are also an essential source of freshwater for billions of people. However, their unprecedented retreat is altering landscapes and threatening ecosystems around the world, including regions where ice skating originated. In addition, March 21, 2025 will mark the first celebration of “World Glacier Day,” proclaimed by the UN to highlight the importance of these resources in the hydrological cycle.
ISU SUSTAINABILITY STRATEGY
As part of its 2023-2030 Sustainability Strategy, launched in January 2024, the ISU has prioritized ice and environmental protection. In November 2024, the organization presented its Sustainability Guidelines, a framework for action that promotes good practices, responsible behaviors and innovation at all of its events. A central focus of these efforts is water conservation, recognizing glaciers as an irreplaceable source of freshwater.
“We are proud to support the International Year of Glacier Preservation and the first celebration of World Glacier Day,” said Jae Youl Kim, ISU president. “Ice is everything to our sport, and, like everyone on the planet, we are deeply connected to our natural environment. As custodians of the ice, we feel a deep responsibility to protect glaciers, essential to billions of lives and the planet’s ecosystems.”
COMMITMENT TO NATURE AND SPORT
Reinforcing its dedication to sustainability, the ISU joined the Sport for Nature Framework in 2023, committing to protect and restore nature, as well as develop initiatives that inspire action for responsible ice management. This commitment reflects the intrinsic connection between sport, nature and sustainability.
The ISU invites the global ice skating community and the world of sport in general to join in the mission to protect glaciers. As the organization announces new initiatives, it continues to lead efforts to highlight the importance of preserving these vital natural resources.
