In line with the United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration 2021-2030, International Mountain Day 2023 promotes the restoration of mountain ecosystems, often overlooked ecosystems that need urgent attention.
Source: FAO
Climate and land-use changes are the primary global factors that adversely impact mountain areas. Both contribute to the deterioration of vital ecosystem services, ecological structure, and functionality essential for preserving the livelihoods of mountain residents. These include water supply for farming and animal production, erosion prevention, mitigation of natural disaster damage, and support for cultural and recreational activities.
Restoring the mountain ecosystem is feasible and effective. Countries like Rwanda, Uganda, Kyrgyzstan, and Serbia have previously celebrated achievements in the restoration of mountain ecosystems.
Acknowledging, empowering, and engaging women, youth, and Indigenous Peoples in decision-making processes is essential to promoting sustainable mountain development and building resilience in these vulnerable ecosystems. Their traditional knowledge and practices benefit biodiversity conservation and resilient land management. Additionally, achieving long-term ecological and social sustainability requires adopting gender-responsive and socially inclusive strategies.
Reference:
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and United Nations Environment Programme. (2023). Restoring Mountain Ecosystems: Challenges, case studies and recommendations for implementing the UN Decade Principles for Mountain Ecosystem Restoration. Rome and Nairobi. Retrieved January 8, 2023 from https://doi.org/10.4060/cc9044en
