Basic introduction to International Mountain Day

Every December 11 is International Mountain Day (International Mountain Day). The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) calls for the formation of an international alliance to protect mountains to ensure agricultural and wildlife diversity in mountainous areas. In 2002, the United Nations launched the International Year of Mountains to urge the international community to pay attention to protecting mountain ecosystems and promoting the well-being of mountain residents. The first observance of International Mountain Day was held on December 11, 2003.

With the intensification of human development in mountainous areas, the unique biological and cultural heritage of mountains are facing the risk of extinction. The international community must build a coalition of international organizations, national governments, civil society, the private sector and mountain residents to jointly protect mountains.

The sources of all important rivers in the world are in mountainous areas. Half of the world's population depends on water from mountainous areas, and about 250 million people live in mountainous areas. Biodiversity in mountainous areas is crucial for soil and water conservation, clean water, food, medicinal plants, etc., but this diversity is under five threats: logging, mining, industry, tourism, and climate warming.