While the effects of hot volcanic deposits on glaciers have been extensively studied, there have been relatively few investigations into the role of cold supraglacial volcanic deposits. Such material can affect glacial ablation and thus it is important to (i) assess the global significance of cold supraglacial volcanic deposits, (ii) add to the existing body of data through collection of field measurements, (iii) investigate through laboratory experimentation the physical properties of debris which control its effect on glacial ablation, and (iv) determine potential hazardous consequences of interactions between glaciers and ablation-affecting cold volcanic deposits.