Activist Greta Thunberg talks glaciers with U of S water scientist

Since the early 1980s, University of Saskatchewan water scientist John Pomeroy has studied the Athabasca Glacier in Jasper, Alta.

But last week he experienced a first — a 16-year-old wanted a tour.

Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg asked to see the glacier and learn more about how climate change impacted it.

“The bad news, I had to tell her, is under almost any future scenario for our climate over this century the Athabasca Glacier is lost,” Pomeroy told 650 CKOM.

He described the teenager as well-educated and enthusiastic during their tour on Oct. 22.

Aside from university students, some news organizations and scientists, Pomeroy said not many people have seen the dramatic melt first-hand.

“This is the first person of her stature and fame that wanted to come out and see,” he said of the tour.

Thunberg has gained notoriety for her protests against climate change.

She also has met with world leaders to discuss what she believes is their inaction to address it.

According to Pomeroy, having someone from outside the science field visit offered a unique perspective.

“We (scientists) try to communicate but it’s great when someone from outside takes an interest and can convey the information we have to other audiences,” Pomeroy explained.

He believes seeing how the glacier has changed first-hand would be beneficial to other people that may not understand how climate change works.

“Parks have put markers where it was at various years so you can walk up to where grandparents were born, or parents, or you,” he said. “Then you find you’re a long way away from the ice.”

Pomeroy and Thunberg are expected to meet again in December at the Santiago Climate Change Conference in Chile.