Restoring mountain ecosystems as careers
International Mountain Day 2023
Ranjan K Baruah *
We should know that of the 20 plant species that supply 80% of the world's food, six originated and have been diversified in mountains: maize, potatoes, barley, sorghum, tomatoes, and apples. We should not forget that mountain ecosystems are under threat from pollution.
Not to be surprised but the fact is micro plastics have even been found as high as the summit of Mt. Everest. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and Up to 84 percent of Endemic Mountain species are at risk of extinction.
For us mountains are close to us as we have lived near mountains and seen its importance. Mountains are natural jewels which we must treasure. They are home to 15% of the world's population and host about half of the world's biodiversity hotspots. They provide freshwater for everyday life to half of humanity, helping to sustain agriculture and supply clean energy and medicines.
As the global climate continues to warm, mountain glaciers melt affecting freshwater supplies downstream, and mountain people — some of the world’s poorest — face even greater struggles to survive.
Steep slopes mean the clearing of forest for farming, settlements or infrastructure can cause soil erosion as well as the loss of habitat. Erosion and pollution harm the quality of water flowing downstream and the productivity of soil. This problem affects us all. We must reduce our carbon footprint and take care of these natural treasures.
International Mountain Day 2023, under the title “Restoring mountain ecosystems” is a chance to increase awareness about the relevance of mountain ecosystems and call for nature-based solutions, best practices and investments that build resilience, reduce vulnerability and increase the ability of mountains to adapt to daily threats and extreme climatic events. The day is observed in 11th of December all over the world.
The healthier our ecosystems are, the healthier the planet - and its people. The UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration aims to prevent, halt and reverse the degradation of ecosystems. There are different courses available for those who want to work alone with the great mountains. Few academic courses are life sciences, environmental sciences, ecology, eco restoration, habitat management, wildlife studies, etc.
There are also courses related to adventure sports, tourism which not only might safeguard the mountains but also enhance economic activities for the mountain dwellers and improve their lives. There are different online courses which can be chosen by aspirants who are interested in working with the mountains.
Choosing a career in the mountains is best for those who are passionate. Apart from research and studies there could be activities related to livelihood as we could see that though people live in healthy areas they are not healthy financially.
Social workers may get them engaged and work with the people to improve their quality of lives. Ecosystem restoration or eco restoration is an interesting course which is useful for people who want to work with the mountain diversity.
* Ranjan K Baruah wrote this article for The Sangai Express
The writer is the Advisor of Skill Employment and Entrepreneurship Department of BTC, Kokrajhar
and can be contacted at bkranjan(AT)gmail(DOT)com for any career related queries
This article was webcasted on 20 December 2023
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