WMO Reaffirms Polar Science Commitment Ahead of 5th International Polar Year

WMO's participation in previous International Polar Years—most notably IPY 2007–2008—has already contributed significantly to global meteorology and climate research.

The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has reaffirmed its steadfast commitment to polar science, cryosphere research, and international collaboration, as it gears up for active participation in the upcoming Fifth International Polar Year (IPY-5), scheduled for 2032–2033. At a time when glaciers, sea ice, and snow cover are experiencing rapid and often irreversible changes, WMO’s renewed focus aims to elevate scientific cooperation and operational forecasting, with global ramifications.

Endorsed by the WMO Executive Council (EC), the organization’s involvement in IPY-5 builds on the enduring legacies of past Polar Years and reflects a deepening resolve to support climate resilience, data integration, and scientific innovation in both polar and high mountain regions.

Legacy of Polar Collaboration and Global Benefits

WMO's participation in previous International Polar Years—most notably IPY 2007–2008—has already contributed significantly to global meteorology and climate research. Tangible outcomes from the last IPY include the creation of the Global Cryosphere Watch (GCW), enhanced satellite-based polar observations, and the launch of Arctic and Antarctic Regional Climate Centres (RCCs).

Importantly, the insights and structures developed for polar regions have proven beneficial well beyond the poles. For example, WMO used the Arctic RCC model to establish the Third Pole Regional Climate Centre network and Climate Forums across High Mountain Asia, a region often referred to as the "Third Pole" due to its extensive ice coverage.

“The cryosphere is a critical component of the Earth system and is undergoing profound changes with far-reaching consequences,” said a WMO spokesperson. “Our involvement in IPY-5 ensures we continue to lead on polar science and support our Members in adapting to these shifts.”

The Cryosphere: A Global Climate Priority

The cryosphere—encompassing all frozen water on Earth including glaciers, snow, sea ice, and permafrost—is now one of WMO’s top strategic priorities. The 2023 World Meteorological Congress emphasized the urgency of understanding and addressing the regional and global impacts of cryospheric change.

These impacts include:

• Sea-level rise from melting glaciers and polar ice caps

• Shifts in freshwater availability for billions of people

• Increased disaster risk, such as glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs)

• Disruptions to fisheries, agriculture, and food security

• Impacts on global weather and ocean circulation systems

WMO is also a co-sponsor of the International Year of Glacier Preservation, further underscoring its commitment to supporting sustainable strategies and scientific discovery in rapidly warming high-altitude and high-latitude zones.

IPY-5: A Bold New Vision for Polar Research and Action

IPY-5 is spearheaded by the International Arctic Scientific Committee (IASC) and the Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research (SCAR), and supported by the International Science Council. Its goal is to unite scientists, Indigenous knowledge holders, and global stakeholders to generate actionable insights for mitigation and adaptation in polar and mountain regions.

WMO’s role in IPY-5 will be coordinated through its Panel of Experts on Polar and High Mountain Observations, Research and Services, and will integrate input from existing WMO structures and collaborative networks.

The EC resolution identifies several strategic areas of focus for WMO’s contribution:

• Expanded monitoring and observations in Arctic and Antarctic regions

• Enhanced data exchange and scientific research to support regional adaptation

• Strengthened satellite coordination, including for polar-orbiting constellations

• Improved observation networks in remote, data-sparse cryospheric zones

• Continued development and support for Regional Climate Centre Networks

• Fostering knowledge transfer, good practices, and inclusive scientific partnerships

Integrating Cryosphere Science into Global Strategies

WMO’s active role in IPY-5 is expected to bridge science and service, ensuring that emerging cryosphere research translates into practical adaptation policies and resilient climate strategies worldwide.

The collaboration will not only provide critical insight into accelerating changes in polar and high mountain environments, but also reinforce the importance of international solidarity in facing shared climate challenges.

As WMO prepares for the decade ahead, its work with IPY-5 will help ensure that cryosphere science remains central to global climate discussions, and that evidence-based decisions are made to protect the planet's frozen frontiers and the billions who depend on them.