Development of high mountain regions - why sustainable?

Summary: environment, resources, human needs, exploitation, development

Słowa kluczowe (w języku angielskim): Mountainous regions cover a third of the Eurasian landmass. Their role in sustainable develop- ment is reviewed with Agenda 2030 and its 17 sustainable development goals adopted by the United Nations in 2015 as reference. Mountainous regions play a key role in the provision of water to their surrounding landscapes, a role which is weakened by the ongoing global warming, leading to melting glaciers and changing precipitation patterns. Mountainous regions are also hosting a wonderful diversity of species and play an important role for the protection of our biological heritage. This is now threated by infrastructure development for hydropower, mining and partly wind power leading to e.g. road building and deforestation. Mountains serve as a refuge for a large part of society by offering unique experiences of nature and wildlife and outdoor recreation, as statistics for visits to mountains proves, and requires sometimes restriction of mountain tourism. The wish for a secure access to these services has led to early implemented nature protection of mountain regions and serves as a counter force to a continued exploitation.

Pociask-Karteczka J. (ed.), 2019, Sustainable water resources managementin high mountains in the Baltic Sea Region, IGiGP UJ, Kraków, s. 9-15.

Instytut Geografii i Gospodarki Przestrzennej UJ

ISBN 978-83-64089-51-0