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Several projects need to be undertaken to improve the 



basic scientific understanding of glacial processes: 



o Better Monitoring of the Ice Packs 



The amount of ice and snow in all ice fields must be 

 carefully tracked, probably with a combination of 

 observations from space and land. 



o Experiments with ice Sheets 



Basic aspects of ice processes must be studied, 

 especially those that relate friction and ice 

 movement and the influence of warming and refreezing 

 on the forces that determine ice movement. 



o Better Topographical Surveys 



Land under ice sheets that could affect the rate 

 of discharge must be mapped better. 



o Parametric Studies with ice Models 



Studies that consider different interpretations 

 of ice processes and environmental conditions need 

 to be conducted with ice sheet and ice shelf models. 



o Improvements in Polar Climatology, Sea Ice, and 

 Oceanography in Climatic Models 



Representations of the climatic processes, melting 

 of sea ice, and the oceanographic processes need to 

 be improved, with interdisciplinary teams contributing 

 to ensure that general circulation models treat these 

 areas realistically. 



A major effort should be undertaken to narrow the uncertain- 

 ties regarding trace gases. 



o Develop Better Estimates of Sources and Sinks 



Research has been insufficient to even determine 

 the origins and fates of these gases 



o Develop a Better Understanding of Atmospheric Chemistry 



The interactions of these gases in the atmosphere 

 greatly influence their abundance, and should be better 

 assessed . 



