MOUNTAINS are integral to human society, but unchecked deforestation and tree cutting can render them barren. As a result, these barren mountains contribute to climate change and the global warming process.
As such, it is essential to conserve the hills through greening efforts like reforestation and preventing deforestation. By doing so, these environments can preserve the hills’ existence for many years and help retain minerals in the land. Mountains act as natural repositories, storing valuable resources, particularly a variety of minerals that can be extracted for human use.
Moreover, these mountains function as large natural reservoirs, storing water like vast tanks. They serve as one of the many sources of water distribution in the environment. Conserving the natural state of hills is crucial for both environmental protection and the well-being of human societies. This is because local communities rely on the resources provided by these areas, including water and food. Additionally, mountains are home to resilient mountain communities that endure harsh climatic conditions.
International Mountain Day, celebrated in 2003 by the FAO, raises awareness about the crucial role mountains play in sustaining life. It highlights the challenges and opportunities in mountain development and fosters partnerships that drive positive change for mountain communities and environments worldwide. The theme for International Mountain Day 2024 is “Mountain solutions for a sustainable future – innovation, adaptation, and youth”. These three focus areas have the potential to shape the future of mountain regions in two distinct ways: either positively or negatively.
Over the centuries, mountain communities have developed solutions to adapt to harsh environments, tackle climate change, reduce poverty, and protect or restore biodiversity. However, ecosystems around mountains are facing dramatic changes, resulting in barren landscapes. In response to the pressures of climate change on mountains, adaptation is crucial for building resilience and reducing vulnerability. Adaptation strategies include ecosystem-based approaches to disaster risk reduction and the integration of Indigenous knowledge systems.
That is why people worldwide must actively participate in mountain conservation to maintain favourable weather conditions for society and mitigate the impacts of natural disasters. It is essential to engage youth in raising awareness about the crucial role mountains play in society. Over 311 million rural mountain inhabitants in developing countries live in areas vulnerable to progressive land degradation, with 178 million at risk of food insecurity. Therefore, it is crucial for everyone to take responsibility to contribute to preserving the durability of mountains to improve the natural environment.”
