English
English
English
International Mountain Day 2025 highlights the vital role of glaciers in sustaining ecosystems, water supplies, agriculture, and livelihoods worldwide. The day raises awareness on climate threats and encourages conservation for mountain communities and beyond.
International Mountain Day observed every year on December 11.
New Delhi: International Mountain Day is celebrated annually on December 11 to draw attention to the importance of mountains and their ecosystems. The United Nations General Assembly officially recognised the day in 2003, following the International Year of Mountains in 2002. Mountains are vital not only for their natural beauty but also as a source of resources such as fresh water, minerals, and agricultural products. They are home to rich biodiversity and a variety of cultural traditions, hosting around 15 percent of the global population.
Mountains provide essential resources for life on Earth. They supply water, food, and energy, support agriculture, and serve as habitats for countless species. About half of the world’s biodiversity hotspots are located in mountainous regions, making their conservation crucial. International Mountain Day offers a platform to discuss challenges such as climate change, deforestation, mining, and unsustainable land use. It also encourages sustainable development and supports local and indigenous communities living in these areas.
The theme for International Mountain Day 2025 is "Glaciers matter for water, food and livelihoods in mountains and beyond." Glaciers are critical to ecosystems and human life, storing approximately 70 percent of the world’s freshwater. Their rapid melting due to climate change threatens water security, agriculture, and energy production, affecting billions of people downstream. The theme underscores the need to protect glaciers as they are lifelines for both mountain communities and global populations.
Century-old Nilgiri Mountain Railway train engine revamped; Here’s tips for travellers
Mountains are under severe pressure from human activity and climate change. Accelerated glacier melt and thawing permafrost increase the risk of floods, landslides, and erosion, threatening downstream populations and infrastructure. Overexploitation of mountain resources, deforestation, and unsustainable mining further endanger ecosystems and local livelihoods. International Mountain Day draws attention to these challenges and promotes global awareness about the urgent need for conservation measures.
Observing International Mountain Day helps highlight the role of mountains in achieving sustainable development. Protecting mountain ecosystems supports food security, water supply, climate resilience, and biodiversity conservation. Governments, communities, and organizations are encouraged to collaborate in creating policies and practices that ensure mountains can continue to provide resources while maintaining ecological balance. The day also stresses the importance of empowering local communities and respecting indigenous knowledge in conservation efforts.
Chinese researchers release streamflow dataset from Tianshan Mountains to study water management
International Mountain Day 2025 calls on the global community to pay attention to glaciers and mountain ecosystems. Protecting glaciers is essential not only for mountain inhabitants but also for millions living downstream who depend on glacial water for agriculture, drinking, and energy. The day serves as a reminder that sustainable mountain management is critical for the wellbeing of the planet and future generations.
As climate change accelerates, safeguarding mountains and glaciers becomes increasingly urgent. International Mountain Day acts as a global platform to inspire action, raise awareness, and implement strategies that preserve these vital ecosystems. By focusing on glaciers in 2025, the day emphasizes the interconnectedness of mountains, water, food, and human survival, highlighting the importance of collective responsibility in protecting natural resources.
