The changing nature of periglacial geomorphology

Periglacial geomorphology faces the prospect of being consumed or by-passed by the growth of geocryology, the changing nature of geomorphology, and the sophistication of Quaternary studies. Identification of typical 'periglacial' landscapes is tenuous. The core of periglacial geomorphology concerns the study of freezing processes, associated ground ice, and related landforms. Such an approach places permafrost in a central, but not defining position, within periglacial geomorphology. Likewise, cold-region geomorphology, an areal or regional concept, embraces a mix of glacial, periglacial, and azonal processes that assume distinct characteristics in the cold non-glacial regions of the world. Because the ultimate aim of periglacial geomorphology is to create models of cold-climate landscape evolution, continued growth of the discipline depends upon it maintaining a bridging position between geomorphology, geocryology, and Quaternary science. Periglacial geomorphology must always change in response to the larger scientific context of which it is part.