By Obiabin Onukwugha
International Mountain Day is celebrated annually on 11 December to create awareness about the importance of mountains to life, to highlight the opportunities and constraints in mountain development, and to build alliances that will bring positive change to mountain peoples and environments around the world.
Mountains are home to 15 percent of the world’s population and host nearly half of the world’s biodiversity hotspots.
In 2002, the UN General Assembly (UNGA), designated 11 December as International Mountain Day and is coordinated by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN (FAO) to foster greater awareness of mountain issues.
According to reports, about 13 percent of the world’s population lives in the mountains and billions more people live downstream from mountains and directly experience their benefits.
It is also said that Mountains cover 22 percent of our planet’s land areas and supply 60 percent to 80 percent of the world’s freshwater.
The theme for International Mountain Day (IMD) 2024 is “Mountain solutions for a sustainable future – innovation, adaptation, youth and beyond”.
A statement by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), noted that over the centuries, mountain communities have developed solutions to adapt to their harsh environments, deal with climate change, reduce poverty and protect or restore biodiversity and ecosystems in mountain regions.
It said the International Mountain Day 2024 aims to focus on innovative solutions, fostering adaptation strategies and empowering youth for a sustainable future.
The FAO highlighted that innovation is essential for addressing complex mountain-related issues as it encompasses technological advancements, such as digital solutions for monitoring and conservation, as well as creative problem-solving such as climate-smart agriculture and novel approaches to livelihoods, resource management and financing.
“As climate change exacerbates environmental pressures on mountains, adaptation becomes imperative for building resilience and reducing vulnerability. Adaptation strategies tailored to mountain ecosystems and communities include solutions such as ecosystem-based approaches to disaster risk reduction and the integration of Indigenous knowledge systems.
“The active, meaningful and inclusive participation of youth in decision-making is essential for ensuring the long-term sustainability of mountain solutions. Young people are committed to climate action, gender equality, social justice, innovation, the promotion of culture, and inclusion.
“IMD 2024 promotes decent work and quality employment for young persons, universal and accessible training, and entrepreneurship opportunities that contribute to the conservation and sustainable use of mountain resources,” the statement read in part..
The body also stated that the International Mountain Day 2024 is a platform for exchanging knowledge, showcasing best practices and mobilizing collective action.
“By embracing innovation, adaptation, youth empowerment, and collaborative approaches, we can pave the way for a more sustainable and resilient future for mountain communities and ecosystems,” the FAO pointed out.
According to the body, while “Mountain solutions for a sustainable future – innovation, adaptation and youth” is the suggested theme for 2024, countries, communities and organizations are welcome to celebrate the IMD through a theme that is more relevant to them.
What can you do?
Stay tuned to the International Mountain Day website in the coming months for resources in all six UN languages that can be shared widely across your networks.
Join the conversation on social media using the #MountainsMatter hashtag. Pass on key messages or take a photo of your favourite mountain and share it with us and your friends.
Organize or participate in activities that celebrate mountains, including virtual presentations and events, photo competitions, art exhibitions and hikes.
Promote your planned event by officially registering it on our gallery of events happening around the world.