The year 2002 was declared United Nations International Year of Mountains. The United Nations hopes to enhance the well-being of mountain people by promoting conservation and sustainable development which will increase the understanding of mountain ecosystems and their overall importance in providing basic resources essential to the peoples of the world.
Occupying nearly one-fifth of the world's land surface area, mountains provide a direct life support base for about one-tenth of the world's people as well as goods and services to more than half the world's population. Mountains are an important source of water, energy, and biological diversity. Mountains provide such key resources as minerals, forest and agricultural products, and recreation. As a major ecosystem respresenting the complex and interrelated ecology of our planet, mountain environments are essential to the survival of the global ecosystem.
I feel so very fortunate to be one of these mountain people, and feel a kinship with those around the world who live in a similar environment. May we join united with other mountain nations to promote world peace and conservation of mountain resources. |
