It is our hope that this contribution will help forge a greater understanding of and appreciation for the critical role mountains play in global systems. A list of references used to compile this document is included on the final page. We look forward to working with government, the private sector, NGOs, and mountain inhabitants in a collaborative effort to address mountain issues through an integrated, community-based approach which sets a new model for conserving the world's natural and cultural resources. Furthermore, they are a source of such key resources as minerals, forest products and agricultural products and of recreation. As a major ecosystem representing the complex and interrelated ecology of our planet, mountain environments are essential to the survival of the global ecosystem.
Mountains are islands of biodiversity in seas of humanly-transformed landscapes.
Forest products, minerals, and hydroelectric power are harvested from mountain ecosystems. Unique and diverse cultures inhabit mountain ecosystems. Mountains have profound spiritual, religious, and sacred significance for many cultures. Mountains provide tourism opportunities for increasingly crowded cities. Mountain Communities Are Among the World's Poorest and Most Marginalized Poverty levels are exceptionally high in remote mountain communities.