The Origin
International Mountain Day is celebrated annually on December 11 to raise awareness about the importance of mountains to our planet. Often overlooked in past centuries, mountains play a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance. Recognizing this, the United Nations and its affiliated organizations have taken responsibility for emphasizing their significance. On this day, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) organizes global seminars, and speeches are delivered worldwide. Governments also make commitments to safeguard mountain ecosystems.
The Importance of Mountains on the Blue Planet
Mountains cover a quarter of the Earth’s surface. According to the Isostasy Theory proposed by geologist Sir George Airy, mountains maintain the planet’s balance by stabilizing its tectonic plates. They provide habitats for 1.1 billion people and countless species of wildlife (FAO). Beyond this, mountains supply 70% of the world’s freshwater, essential for drinking, washing, and irrigation. Streams and rivers originating from mountains are lifelines for agricultural economies, preventing desertification and economic crises. Mountains also play a pivotal role in hydropower generation by serving as natural walls for dam construction, significantly reducing infrastructure costs. For example, Pakistan’s Diamer Bhasha Dam exemplifies this. In addition, mountains enhance national defense by serving as natural barriers. Beyond practical benefits, mountains attract tourists with their meadows, forests, and valleys, offering unparalleled beauty and adventure opportunities for mountaineers.
The Challenges Facing Mountains
Despite their importance, mountains face numerous challenges. Deforestation in hilly areas strips them of their beauty and exacerbates soil erosion, leading to catastrophic landslides. Global warming has further jeopardized mountain ecosystems, causing glaciers to melt rapidly, resulting in water scarcity and increased flooding in both mountainous and downstream areas. These crises have forced many mountain communities to migrate, fueling global refugee issues. The unrelenting exploitation of mountain resources poses another threat, driven by humanity’s insatiable demand for natural reserves. Furthermore, irresponsible tourism has polluted mountains with trash, compounded by a lack of proper waste management systems, diminishing their cleanliness and charm.
UNESCO BMW’s Involvement
UNESCO BMW, an international organization dedicated to advancing human well-being, actively collaborates with the FAO to underscore the importance of mountains. Through its efforts, UNESCO BMW highlights the adverse effects of human actions on mountain ecosystems and emphasizes the economic, environmental, and health benefits these ecosystems provide. Mountains are essential for sustaining life, offering freshwater, biodiversity, and climate regulation. They also serve as sources of mental peace and inspiration. UNESCO BMW uses its platform to promote awareness and advocacy, encouraging global efforts to preserve these vital natural landscapes.
UNESCO BMW’s Vision
UNESCO BMW envisions a harmonious balance between humans and nature, recognizing the role of mountains in fostering both ecological stability and human health. The organization focuses on engaging people of all ages, particularly youth, in activities that inspire respect and appreciation for mountains. By promoting mental wellness initiatives, such as nature-based mindfulness programs and educational campaigns, UNESCO BMW works to ensure mountains continue to provide tranquility, beauty, and ecological benefits for generations to come. The organization remains committed to protecting mountains as essential pillars of environmental and human well-being.
By: Chaman Sidhu