The joint scientific research team of Chinese, Japanese, and American scientists have returned to Beijing after a 30-day research project on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. 

The 40 scientists collected data on the Himalayan glacier and the surrounding Tanggula Mountains.

They found, not only a large-scale glacier rarely seen in low latitude regions and the deepest glacier in China but also evidence of glacier shrink.

The data gathered on atmosphere, soil and ecology in the plateau will help more accurately forecast the weather and climate change.

The team leader says the research has paved the way for further exploration of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau.

(CRI September 16, 2004)