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Investment in organic agriculture, sustainable apparel, and eco-tourism is proving beneficial for mountain communities in Central Asia as they work to adjust to the effects of global warming, according to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). The organization emphasized the need for increased support for these often underrepresented regions in climate-related discussions.
Families engaged in farming in mountainous areas are frequently among the poorest people globally, noted FAO Director-General Qu Dongyu.
During his speech at the International Conference of the Global Mountain Dialogue for Sustainable Development held in Bishkek, the FAO chief highlighted the severe food insecurity many mountain inhabitants face. He explained that climate change, land degradation, and the unsustainable exploitation of resources are complicating their access to clean water, food, and fertile land.
Mountain communities, as custodians of elevated ecosystems, possess significant potential for development that is resilient to climate challenges.
Kyrgyzstan, recognized for its rich and diverse mountain ecosystems, is preparing to host a Global Mountain Summit in 2027.
Fostering Resilience
“Mountain communities, the stewards of mountain resources, have immense potential for fostering climate-resilient development,” Mr. Qu remarked, advocating for the transformation toward more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agrifood systems. He emphasized that protecting mountain ecosystems is a shared global obligation.
More than two billion people depend on freshwater sourced from glaciers, a crucial resource increasingly jeopardized by rising temperatures and snowmelt, he warned.
Although some improvements have been observed, mountain regions continue to endure significant strain and are increasingly affected by human-induced climate change, loss of biodiversity, soil degradation, and land deterioration.
Enhancing Impact
The FAO has been active in Kyrgyzstan since 2009, aiming to bolster the nation’s capacity to handle growing pressures on its ecosystems. Objectives include achieving food security and promoting sustainable management of land and forests.
In late 2022, the UN General Assembly endorsed the Five Years of Action for the Development of Mountain Regions, which aims to elevate global awareness regarding the challenges faced by mountainous nations and to strengthen efforts to address these pressing issues. This initiative will continue until 2027.
Valuing Local Products
FAO-backed initiatives are enhancing the production of premium coffee, honey, and handicrafts through programs like the Mountain Partnership Products (MPP) label.
This FAO-supported framework aids small-scale producers in mountainous areas by certifying their products. The program focuses on revitalizing rural economies by enhancing supply chains, facilitating market access, and ensuring fair remuneration.
The MPP label not only fosters transparency by detailing the origins and cultural significance of each product but also fortifies local cooperatives and advocates for sustainable practices within mountain communities.
Source
news.un.org