SLF champions mountain ecosystems

Reaffirm commitment to supporting communities that depend on them

ISLAMABAD:

The Snow Leopard Foundation (SLF) joined the global community in celebrating International Mountain Day 2024, reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding high altitude ecosystems and supporting the communities that depend on them.

This year's theme, "Mountain Solutions for a Sustainable Future - Innovation, Adaptation, and Youth", aligns closely with SLF's mission to empower mountain communities through conservation, education, and sustainable development. Asia's high mountains, including the majestic Himalayas, Karakoram, Hindu Kush, and Pamirs, are vital ecosystems often referred to as the "third pole of the Earth."

These regions face increasing challenges from climate change, warming at twice the global average. Melting glaciers are putting the freshwater needs of millions at risk, while unchecked deforestation, urban expansion, and resource misuse add to the pressures on mountain communities and the wildlife they coexist with.

In his special message, SLF Director Dr Muhammad Ali Nawaz, emphasised the importance of mountains as lifelines for both nature and humanity. "Mountains provide critical ecosystem services, including freshwater and carbon sequestration, supporting billions of people downstream. Protecting these landscapes is not only essential for wildlife like the threatened snow leopard but also for global climate resilience," he stated.

SLF Deputy Director Dr Jaffaruddin highlighted the snow leopard's role as a symbol of healthy mountain ecosystems. "The snow leopard is more than an emblem of natural beauty.