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Mountain Protection

 

Protection of the mountain environment has always been an important issue for the UIAA. In the early years, our members protested against the construction of cable cars and railroads in the Alps. Later the focus turned to the problem of visitors leaving behind rubbish in the mountains, pollution from tourist flights and the use of helicopters to access remote areas.

The causes of damage are not local anymore. Global warming is also impacting mountain environments. Climate change is not only making the weather unpredictable, it is changing the landscape by melting glaciers and creating new lakes.

 

 

 


Environmental perspective

An important job for the UIAA is to educate its members and the public on how to protect the mountain environment. Protection is not just a separate section of our organisation; we try to include the mountain protection component in all our activities - whether its a course for voluntary leaders or expedition advice.

Mountain Protection Label
The UIAA is currently developing a new certificate system, the Mountain Protection Label as a global standard for best practices to protect the natural and cultural resources of mountain regions around the world. Learn more ...

Climate change

Climate change affects the livelihoods and way of life of mountain people and visitors to mountain areas. Glaciers recede impacting communities and climbing routes and trails are altered. The UIAA would like to contribute to public understanding of climate change issues and encourage responsible behaviour.

Partners and resources

The UIAA is a member of various United Nations agencies, including the International Partnership for Sustainable Development in Mountain Regions, and works closely with the World Conservation Union (IUCN) to promote protected areas. Our organisation values partnerships with a variety of international NGOs.





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Commissions

The Mountain Protection Commission is the UIAA body responsible for global environmental issues. Learn more...

The Access Commission promotes access based on responsibility and care for the mountain landscape. Learn more...


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Documents in other languages are made available free-of-charge by UIAA commissions or associated bodies. English remains the official language of the UIAA. The UIAA reserves the right to accept or deny any document submitted in a language other than English.






Argeos Charter
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