International Mountain Day

International Mountain Day History

International Mountain Day is recognized worldwide and endorsed by the United Nations, which is devoted to highlighting the importance of mountains to life. It aims to encourage understanding and respect for the crucial role that mountains play, not only in providing homes for a significant percentage of the global population but also in sustaining biodiversity, offering recreational opportunities, and supplying food and water resources. The observance also highlights the threats and challenges facing mountain environments and their communities, such as climate change, deforestation, land degradation, and rapid urbanisation.

The importance of International Mountain Day to Australia is undeniable, given the country's diverse and abundant mountainous terrain, some of which are world heritage sites. This day serves as a tribute to Australia's expansive mountain ranges, such as the Great Dividing Range and the Flinders Ranges, which are home to unique ecosystems. These ecosystems not only regulate climate but also support the agriculture and tourism industries. Australians, especially those residing in or near these mountainous areas, are urged to comprehend the role of these ecosystems in their daily lives and their duty to conserve these vital landscapes.

International Mountain Day is often observed in Australia through various environmental initiatives, educational programmes, and public events. These activities aim to advocate for sustainable mountain development. They may include clean-up campaigns, tree-planting activities, guided mountain hikes, and seminars on mountain issues and their environments. International Mountain Day is observed annually on the 11th of December. However, the dates for specific events and activities in Australia may vary across different regions. The day is an opportunity for Australians to appreciate and help protect the country's extraordinary mountain habitats and the diverse flora and fauna they sustain.

International Mountain Day facts

• The theme for International Mountain Day in 2023 was Restoring Mountain Ecosystems.
• Mountains make up 30% of all key biodiversity areas according to the U.N. Key biodiversity areas are those areas recognized as vital for threatened plants and animals. They consist of land, freshwater, and marine sites.
• According to the U.N, around twenty plant species supply 80% of the world's food. Six of them: maize, potatoes, barley, sorghum, tomatoes, and apples originated and were diversified in mountainous regions.
• The highest peak in Australia is Mount Kosciuszko, standing at 2,228 meters (7,310 feet) above sea level. It is located in the Snowy Mountains of the Australian Alps, which experiences snowfall during winter months.
• The Australian continent is characterized by low, flat, and ancient mountains that have been eroded over millions of years. Some of these ancient landforms, such as the Flinders Ranges, date back over 500 million years.

In the News and Trending in Australia for International Mountain Day

Top things to do in Australia for International Mountain Day

• Plan a hike in a mountainous region to better your understanding of the vast amounts of biodiversity that mountains offer.
• Mountains are often littered with trash due to human activities. Gather a group of friends or volunteers and organize a cleanup in a nearby mountainous area.
• Mountains hold significant cultural importance for many indigenous communities in Australia. Take this day to learn about the indigenous history, stories, and traditions related to mountains. This can be done through visiting indigenous cultural centers, reading books, or reaching out to local indigenous organizations.