Scientists estimate global warming may cause two thirds of China's glaciers to melt by mid-century, putting at least 300 million people at risk.

Yao Tandong, director of the Institute of Tibetan Plateau Research at the Chinese Academy of Sciences was that up to 64 percent of the glaciers could disappear by 2050.

Of China's 1.3 billion people, 23 percent live around glaciers in the western part of the country for the rich water resources they provide.

The problem has been highlighted by the shrinking of Yulong Snow Mountain glacier in south-western Yunnan province, which has receded 250 meters over the past two decades.

The glacier is a crucial source of water which stores snow in the winters and releases water in hot dry summers, giving life to the nearby surroundings.