On December 11, the world will celebrate International Mountain Day, an initiative established by the United Nations in 2003 to raise awareness about sustainable development in mountainous regions and the critical biodiversity that these ecosystems harbor.
Mountains are home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, playing a vital role in maintaining ecological balance. The trees in mountain forests absorb carbon dioxide, helping to mitigate climate change, while glaciers provide essential drinking water and irrigation for both mountain populations and those in lower areas.
However, the biodiversity of mountains faces significant threats from climate change, deforestation, and urbanization. Rising temperatures and sea levels negatively impact mountain ecosystems, while deforestation reduces the habitat available for countless species.
The theme for 2023 focuses on restoring mountain ecosystems as part of the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration (2021-2030). This global initiative aims to mobilize action to prevent, halt, and reverse the degradation of ecosystems worldwide.
Mountains cover 27% of the Earth's surface and host 15% of the global population, providing essential ecosystem services such as freshwater, energy, food, and cultural resources. Yet, they are among the most vulnerable ecosystems, threatened by climate change, biodiversity loss, and human activities.
Recent reports reveal alarming trends: mountain glaciers have lost 23% of their mass from 1961 to 2016, with melting rates doubling in the last two decades. This has severe consequences, including reduced water availability and increased risks of floods and landslides.
In Europe, the Alps are particularly affected, losing an average of 34 meters of ice thickness from 1997 to 2020. In Italy, over 200 glaciers have vanished since the late 19th century, with significant losses in regions like the Dolomites.
To combat these challenges, efforts must focus on both mitigation—reducing greenhouse gas emissions and resource consumption—and adaptation, making mountain communities and ecosystems more resilient to climate impacts.
International Mountain Day serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting these vital ecosystems for the well-being of both local populations and the planet at large.