International Mountain Day
Every year on December 11th, International Mountain Day aims to increase
awareness about the importance of mountains. The conservation of
mountains is a key factor in sustainable development.
Mountains cover 27% of the earth’s landmass. According to the United
Nations, 15% of the world’s population lives in the mountains. The
mountains are also home to one-quarter of the world’s land animals and
plants. Additionally, across the globe mountains provide freshwater to half
of the world’s population. Another role mountains play is providing food
resources. Six of the world’s most important food crops grow in the
mountains.
INTERNATIONAL MEN’S DAY | November 19
Read More
As you can see, mountains are extremely important. Sadly, however,
climate change and over-exploitation threaten our majestic mountains. As
a result, the livelihood of those who live in the mountains is also under
threat. Mountain people are among the poorest in the world. These
threats to their home make it even more challenging to survive.
One of the best things you can do to help conserve mountains is reduce
your carbon footprint.
HOW TO OBSERVE #InternationalMountainDay
Mountains are found in many countries around the world. Countries
relying on their mountains for food, water, tourism, and habitats host
various events on this day. The Albanian Alps Alliance chairperson has
given an interview discussing the importance of mountains in his country.
Researchers at the University of British Columbia in Canada convene each
year on this day to discuss mountain ecosystems and the need to
preserve these environments. Hiking excursions, film festivals, bonfires,
and photo concerts are also held.
To participate:
If you live near the mountains, go camping or hiking.
Reflect on a trip you took to the mountains. What impact did it have
on you?
Challenge your friends and family to name as many mountains as
possible.
Learn about the importance of mountains and the threats they face.
Set a goal of climbing one of the world’s most climbed mountains
including Mt. Fuji, Mt. Hood, and Mt. Kilimanjaro.
Listen to songs about mountains including “High on a Mountain Top”
(Loretta Lynn), “The Mountain Song” (Jerry Garcia), “One Tree Hill”
(U2), “Mountain Music” (Alabama).
Share a beautiful picture of a mountain on social media with
#InternationalMountainDay.
INTERNATIONAL MOUNTAIN DAY HISTORY
In 1992, the UN held the Commission on Sustainable Development (CSD).
As part of the CSD, the UN adopted a document called “Managing Fragile
Ecosystems: Sustainable Mountain Development.” Due to the emphasis
on the importance of mountains, the UN declared 2002 the UN
International Year of Mountains. In 2003, the United Nations General
Assembly designated December 11th as International Mountain Day. The
Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is
responsible for leading the observance of this day. Recent themes have
included:
2019: Mountains Matter for Youth
2018: Mountains Matter
2017: Mountains Under Pressure: Climate, Hunger, Migration
2016: Mountain Cultures: Celebrating diversity and strengthening identity
2015: Promoting Mountain Products for Better Livelihoods