Careers in the mountains for a sustainable future
Life in the cities and metros or urban areas is not similar with that of areas which are nearer to the mountains. Mountains are a storehouse of resources which have been used by human beings since ages. We should learn that of the 20 plant species that supply 80% of the world's food, six originated and have been diversified in mountains: maize, potatoes, barley, sorghum, tomatoes, and apples. Mountain ecosystems are under threat from pollution. Microplastics have even been found as high as the summit of Mt. Everest. The challenge is that up to 84 percent of endemic mountain species are at risk of extinction, according to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.
Mountains are natural jewels we should treasure. They are home to 15% of the world's population and host about half of the world's biodiversity hotspots. They provide freshwater for everyday life to half of humanity, helping to sustain agriculture and supply clean energy and medicines.
There are solutions too which need to be used and practised in a sustainable manner. Over centuries, mountain communities have developed solutions to adapt to their harsh environments, deal with climate change, reduce poverty and protect or restore biodiversity.
This year’s International Mountain Day 2024 (IMD 2024) which is observed on 11th December focuses precisely on the capacity and needs of its people through a triple approach: “Mountain solutions for a sustainable future – innovation, adaptation and youth.”
There is no doubt that innovation is essential for addressing complex mountain-related issues. It encompasses technological advancements as well as creative problem-solving such as climate-smart agriculture. It brings opportunities for young people to choose careers which are related to mountains and by doing so we may also contribute for the best usage of the mountains without hampering the ecosystem.
The active participation of youth is essential for ensuring the long-term sustainability of mountain solutions. IMD 2024 promotes decent work and quality employment for young persons, accessible training, and entrepreneurship opportunities that contribute to the sustainable use of mountain resources.
As the global climate continues to warm, mountain glaciers melt affecting freshwater supplies downstream, and mountain people — some of the world’s poorest — face even greater struggles to survive. Working in the field of combating climate change is one of the best career choices for young people.
Like taking up careers for combating climate change one may also choose to study life sciences and then may get themselves engaged in the conservation of flora and fauna from the mountain ecosystem. For promoting the importance of mountains, one may also choose adventure sports activities as their careers like mountaineering. Adventure activities could be organised which also raises awareness amongst the public about the importance of conservation and protection of natural resources available in the mountain ecosystems.
One may also choose eco-tourism as career options and contribute to sustainable development by utilising the mountains in a sustainable way through which tourists explore them without hampering nature. There are many other opportunities which may be explored by our young people. This year’s theme of the IMD focusses on youths’ participation means it brings more opportunities for the young people to get engaged voluntarily as well as professionally when it comes to safeguarding our mountains.
(Ranjan K Baruah is a career mentor and skill trainer and currently the Advisor of the Skill, Employment and Entrepreneurship Department of Bodoland Territorial Region and can be reached at 8473943734 or bkranjan@gmail.com)
