On the eleventh of December of each year, we observe International Mountain Day in order to bring to our attention the tremendous significance that mountains hold in our lives.

This particular day, which has been recognized by the United Nations, presents us with an opportunity to contemplate the ways in which we can safeguard these natural treasures and secure a brighter future for our planet.

International Mountain Day

Do Mountains Have Any Importance?

Mountains make up approximately 27% of the territory on Earth, and they are comparable to the treasure chests that nature has to offer. Imagine this: fifteen percent of the world’s population calls these countries their home.

In addition to this, they are home to approximately half of the world’s biodiversity hotspots, which implies that they serve as a sanctuary for a wide variety of flora and fauna.

Nevertheless, this is not the end of the story; mountains play a significant part in the provision of potable water to over half of the world’s population. You did indeed read it correctly! In addition to providing water for agriculture, clean energy, and pharmaceuticals, which are all essential to our lives, they also serve as enormous water tanks.

Background Information Regarding International Mountain Day:

When the United Nations made the decision in 2001 to bring attention to mountains, the path that would eventually become known as International Mountain Day began.

On December 11, 2001, they initiated the International Year of Mountains with the intention of raising awareness and motivating people to take action for the development of mountains in a sustainable manner.

The United Nations General Assembly formally designated December 11 as International Mountain Day on December 20, 2002, one year after the event.

Since the first celebration, which took place in 2003, each year has a specific subject that focuses on different topics, such as freshwater, peace, biodiversity, or climate change. Since then, the event has been held annually.

Theme for the International Mountain Day :

The word “Restoring Mountain Ecosystems” is the theme for this year’s event. What exactly does that say? It is essential to have an understanding that mountains are confronted with challenges, particularly as a result of climate change.

These issues have the potential to have an impact on the communities, animals, and plants that live in the mountains. Therefore, on this day, we are put in the position of being reminded to discover ways to restore equilibrium to these ecosystems.