The task of the SCC is to observe the changes of the alpine cryosphere. Furthermore, supervises all long-term cryospheric monitoring networks of Switzerland.more

Image: NASA Earth Observatory, Jesse Allen and Robert Simmonmore

Portrait of SCC

The Swiss Commission for Cryosphere observation (SCC) monitoring networks was founded in 1893 as the glacier commission and is integrated within the Platform Geosciences of the Swiss Academy of Science (SCNAT). In relation to the changes caused by the incipient climate change it is the Commission’s task to observe the changes of the alpine cryosphere. Furthermore it is in charge of the supervision of all long-term national cryospheric monitoring networks. The commission works in close cooperation with the Swiss Snow, Ice and Permafrost Society (SIP).

Ausblick auf Alphubel, Rimpfischhorn, und Strahlhorn mit Adler- und Findelengletscher
Ausblick auf Alphubel, Rimpfischhorn, und Strahlhorn mit Adler- und FindelengletscherImage: Martin Hoelzle

Snow and ice embody fundamental environmental factors for the human being (climate, water supply, natural hazards, education and economy etc.). This is why the process of observing the alpine cryosphere is an important component within the overall monitoring of climate-related changes. Thanks to a resolution – which was requested by the Department of Home Affairs- of the Swiss Federal Council in 2008 it has been possible to safeguard the funding of long-term measurement series. Switzerland’s significant position in global climate observation is strengthened by this sustainable long-term funding back-up for various measuring series (especially of glaciers and permafrost). The funding is assured by the Global Climate Observing System (GCOS), MeteoSchweiz, the Federal Office for the Environment and the Swiss Academy of Sciences as well as the participating Universities and institutes for scientific research.

Events, News, Publications

Large volumes of dust from the Sahara entered Switzerland in several waves in the winter and spring of 2024. The dust collected on the surface of the snow and glaciers, leading to an increase in solar radiation absorbed during the summer. This considerably accelerated the thawing process.

Severe melting of glaciers despite heavy snowfall at high altitudes

After the extreme circumstances encountered in 2022 and 2023, no relief is in sight for Swiss glaciers. Despite exceptionally large volumes of snow during the winter, a combination of temperatures

Image: Matthias Huss