Have you been to the top of a mountain? The cool breeze, the fresh air, the beautiful sky and, above all, the sight from above give us an unforgettable experience from high up on the mountain. Mountains are not just beautiful places to visit. They contribute significantly to ecosystems and biosphere. International Mountain Day is celebrated on December 11.
Statistics say that about one billion people live in mountainous areas. Almost half the human population depends on mountains for water, food and clean energy. However, climate change, land degradation, over exploitation and natural disasters, with potentially far-reaching and devastating consequences, are threatening not only the mountains themselves, but also mountain communities, and the rest of the world. Global warming is melting mountain glaciers at an unprecedented rate. This affects freshwater supplies down- stream for millions of people.
International Mountain Day should raise awareness regarding the importance of mountains in Man’s life. It is also an opportunity to remind governments to be pro-active, and protect mountains.
Picture Credit : Google