MAKE A DIFFERENCE ON MOUNTAIN DAY
December 11th
Think of mountains as the Earth's thermometer--
early indicators of a planetary fever.
When you read alarming headlines about global warming, it's easy to forget that climate change is an intensely local problem.
Especially in mountain regions.
High mountain villagers living in the Andes and Himalayas don't need to be convinced about climate change. There's really no debate.
These communities rely on nearby glaciers as their water source and have built their livelihoods around a healthy mountain ecosystem. But climate change means vanishing glaciers, droughts, shifts in precipitation and extreme weather--all threats to essential water sources. The devastating consequences are up close and personal. Mountain people need practical solutions--ways to adapt and somehow carry on.
That is our specialty--finding sustainable solutions. For decades, The Mountain Institute has worked hand-in-hand with mountain communities as a trusted partner. Working together, combining science with traditional knowledge, we make mountain livelihoods more sustainable and communities more resilient to a changing climate. Our approach is inclusive. We are champions for indigenous people and gender equality. Groups that have been marginalized or discriminated against are included in the planning process; women are in leadership roles. Ancient cultures are not just protected, they are the source of innovative solutions to modern challenges. An example of this is highlighted in our recent op-ed in The Washington Post: These indigenous communities are models for how to adapt to climate change.
The impacts of climate change in mountains may seem far away to you. But they are a preview of what is to come and as close as your next drink of water.
As the water towers of the world, mountains supply freshwater to billions downstream. In fact, over half of humanity relies on mountains as their water source every day. It's important to remember that m
ountain villagers play a critical role as stewards of the very top of our watersheds.
Although the headlines are more alarming than ever, we continue to be inspired by these communities living at the foot of receding glaciers. Their creativity, tenacity and resilience come from a deep trust in nature and kinship with the mountains that surround them. Mountain people can teach all of us how to adapt to a warming world.
From all of us in the Himalayas, Andes and USA,
WE THANK YOU for your support!
The Mountain Institute is the only international non-profit focused solely on mountains worldwide, and actively dedicated to mountain communities and their unique environments. Community, Culture, Conservation - Since 1972.
If you prefer to mail a check, please use our D.C. address, given below.
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