The Glaciers of the Valle d’Aosta and Piemonte Regions: Records of Present and Past Environmental and Climate Changes

Glaciated mountains of the Valle d’Aosta and Piemonte regions are described in relation to the geological, geomorphological and climatic settings of the Western Alps. A comprehensive view of the present-day Alpine regional cryosphere is offered, and links to regional and local examples of its evolution through the Quaternary are provided. Pleistocene moraine amphitheatres (Ivrea and Rivoli-Avigliana) of the piedmont area recall the development stages of Alpine glaciology. Major glaciers (Lys, Miage, Belvedere, Rutor and Sabbione) of the highest peaks of the Western Alps (Mt. Bianco, Mt. Rosa) are analysed for their specific scientific, environmental, cultural and economic importance. The distinctive dynamic nature of the glacial landscape is illustrated by examples of active glacial landforms and related slope instability, whose sensitivity to climate changes can increase hazards and risks.