(Launch Date - Thursday 19 March)

A science-based overview of how mountain systems shape water, biodiversity, climate resilience and pollution pathways far beyond their peaks.

Overview

Mountains in Motion: Global Linkages from Ridge to River is a major UNEP publication produced with GRID-Arendal that explores why mountains matter far beyond mountain regions themselves. Framed through the triple planetary crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution, the publication shows how changes in mountain ecosystems cascade downstream, affecting freshwater security, food systems, biodiversity, disaster risk, governance and human well-being.

Drawing on recent peer-reviewed research, public datasets and national reporting under the Rio Conventions, the report connects mountain change to global systems. It examines shrinking glaciers and snow cover, groundwater recharge, biodiversity corridors, pollution flows, land degradation and environmental governance, while highlighting why mountain futures must be built through integrated, equitable and science-based action.

What You’ll Find

• A ridge-to-river perspective on how mountain change affects lowlands, coasts and global environmental stability.
• Six thematic chapters covering climate impacts, water systems, biodiversity, pollution, land degradation and international environmental governance.
• Case studies and maps from regions including the Andes, Central Asia, East Africa, the Hindu Kush Himalaya and the South Caucasus.
• Evidence-based analysis of how glacier retreat, permafrost thaw, biodiversity loss, pollution and land degradation interact.
• Policy-relevant recommendations for adaptation, ecosystem restoration, risk reduction, pollution prevention and stronger integration of mountains across the Rio Conventions.
• A strong emphasis on the role of Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities, women and youth in shaping resilient mountain futures.

Why It Matters

Mountains are often treated as remote or isolated landscapes, yet they are vital planetary systems. They supply much of the world’s freshwater, harbour exceptional biodiversity, regulate climate processes and link mountain and downstream systems through water flows, ecosystems and shared environmental risks. When mountains are destabilised, the impacts are felt far beyond their boundaries.

This publication helps make those linkages visible. It supports decision-makers, practitioners and partners in understanding mountains not only as places of ecological value, but as strategic systems for resilience, cooperation and long-term environmental governance. In line with GRID-Arendal’s mission, it transforms complex science into a clear and compelling case for action.

Skills: Environmental Storytelling

Tags: Andes biodiversity Central Asia cryosphere East Africa Environmental Governance global mountains pollution South Caucasus Freshwater Land degradation Climate adaptation Rio Conventions Hindu Kush Himalaya