The EuroClim data of the Greenland Ice Sheet study in particular the surface type of the ice sheet. Data include dry and wet snow, superimposed ice and glacier ice. For climate studies, wet snow is of particular interest. Wet snow indicates warmer conditions and melting.

The mass balance fluctuations of the Greenland Ice Sheet and how much the ice sheet contributes to sea level changes are still unsolved problems. Even after many years of intensive field work by many different groups, only best estimates can be given. But it is likely that fresh water contribution from the ice sheet and the extent of melt zones have a strong impact on both ocean circulation and the atmospheric energy balance.