Private

FS 3.237

Open Poster Session

Details

Full Title
FS 3.237: Open Poster Session
Scheduled
Posters - Part I:
2025-09-16, 15:00 - 16:00 (LT), SOWI – Garden
Posters - Part II:
2025-09-16, 17:30 - 18:30 (LT), SOWI – Garden
Convener
Stefan Mayr
Co-Conveners
Wolfgang Gurgiser,
Assigned to Synthesis Workshop
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Thematic Focus
No focus defined
Keywords
Mountains, Open topics

Description

In this session, various topics that do not fit well in one of the other sessions or workshops, will get the opportunity to display a poster in our outdoor poster exhibition during the entire conference and give a 2 min intro during this session. Based from our experiences at the #IMC22 open poster exhibition, we are very optimistic to again have a lively event with plenty of interesting contributions to learn from.

Registered Abstracts

ID: 3.5089

Impact of Climate Change on Ski Resorts: A Case Study of Fethiye Eren Mountain Ski Resort

Oyku Duran
Akbulut, Onur

Abstract/Description

Climate change is an urgent and significant challenge that presents unforeseen costs. The tourism industry is both a contributor to and a victim of climate change. While concepts such as impact, adaptation, maladaptation, mitigation, and resilience are commonly discussed within this sector, this study takes a unique approach by focusing on a ski resort that has experienced a notable decline. It uses the destination life cycle model to evaluate the downturn of Fethiye Eren Mountain Ski Resort through a case study methodology. The objective is to adapt the temporal dimensions of the destination life cycle model effectively to address the realities of climate change.

ID: 3.7462

A preliminary survey of the trans River Indus Hindu Kush-Himalaya mountains and ecotone spiders (Arachnida: Araneae) and impact of climate change

Mian Sayed Khan
Ali, Pir Asmat

Abstract/Description

District Swabi, with its typical dried extension of ecoregions of Himalaya subtropical pine forest, Hindukush and Baluchistan xeric woodland that includes sandy grasslands, subtropical, dry sub-temperate Hindu Kush- Himalaya mountains and ecotone microhabitats with distinguish River Indus divided Himalaya-Hindukush mountains, is reported here one of the Pakistan biodiversity hotspot for spider diversity. A total of 67 spider species belonging to 37 genera and 30 families were identified through several years of extensive survey work. The distribution records of 50 species have been updated. The family Salticidae is most diverse with 32 species belonging to 22 genera followed by Araneidae with 23 species in 17 genera. The guild structure analysis revealed with majority Stalker, web-weaver, Ambusher, scattered line weaver, foliage hunter, funnel web builder respectively, and include habitat specialists that favor specific microhabitats. Some of these habitat specialists may be affected by alterations on ecotone and river Indus environment due to anthropogenic and climate change of drought and flood.

ID: 3.7518

Strengthening community resilience to climate change: CRIDA case study on the vital role of endemic Polylepis mountain forests and the link to aquifer recharge

Michell Andree Fernández Velarde
Cools, Jan; Staes, Jan

Abstract/Description

In the context of increasing climate variability and its profound impacts on water resources, robust methodologies are essential to ensure water security and sustainable management. This study uses the Climate Risk Informed Decision Analysis (CRIDA) framework to assess the vulnerability of water resources in rural mountain communities, focusing on the eastern sub-basin of the Chili River in Peru. A participatory approach was used to identify key performance indicators and conduct a hydrological stress test, revealing critical vulnerabilities to climate-related risks. This research examines the hydrological role of Andean Polylepis forests in enhancing groundwater recharge as a strategy for drought adaptation. It also highlights the dual threat of deforestation to water availability and rural livelihoods. By integrating ecological conservation into climate-resilient water management strategies, this study provides novel insights for protecting vulnerable basins and promoting the sustainable coexistence of human and environmental Andean systems in the face of climate change.

ID: 3.8333

Tiger beetles as bioindicators for habitat management and conservation along the Ramganga river Western Himalaya

Vinita Sangela
Uniyal, V. P.; Gupta, S. K.; Pearson, David

Abstract/Description

Invertebrates can be important ecological monitoring indicators because of their sensitivity to environmental changes. Among these, tiger beetles are known to be useful bioindicators, especially when it comes to evaluating changes in quality of riparian habitat. Our research focuses on the diversity, habitat dependence, and associations of tiger beetles in the Ramganga watershed, a key river in the Western Himalayas. We found 17 tiger beetle species in eight genera. Among these, two species occur exclusively in muddy habitats, seven in sandy habitats, and eight were found across multiple habitats, such as grasslands, gravel, rocks, and shrubs. The Ramganga River flows through mountainous terrain that is characterised by diverse vegetation types, including riparian grasslands, shrubs, and patches of forest that contribute to habitat heterogeneity. These areas have diverse climate conditions because of the great altitudinal range of the watershed area. Through an analysis of similarity test (ANOSIM) and permutational multivariate analysis of variance (PERMANOVA), we found that there are significant differences in the makeup of tiger beetle communities in different habitats. Using the indicator value index (IndVal), we identified two species that can be used as an indicator for habitat quality in gravel and rock habitats, three for muddy habitats, ten for sandy habitats, and one for shrub habitats. Through market basket analysis (MBA) using the apriori algorithm, we found that two species were positively associated with muddy habitats and seven species with sandy habitats. These findings provide baseline data on tiger beetle diversity and their habitat preferences as bioindicators of habitat change and the management of riparian ecosystems.

ID: 3.8399

Biodiversity Conservation, Mountain Sustainability and Development in Community Managed Protected area of Site of Special Scientific Interest Khanpur-Makhnial

Muhammad Awais Khan

Abstract/Description

The rural area of Makhnial-Khanpur being one of the candidate sites for Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) was declared as Site for Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) under section 27 of KP Wildlife and Biodiversity, 2015 in January, 2022 by the Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa vide Notification No. SO(Tech)/ FE& WD/VII-10/2021/PC/NPKC 1720-29 dated 12-01-2022 with a view to to restore degraded wildlife habitats barking deer and its associated species including Indian pangolin, Kalij pheasant and black partridges. This also target to stimulate scientific research and natural interpretation of biodiversity components and improving livelihood opportunities of local communities through ecotourism recreation activities thus to making them resilient to the environmental hazards and climate changes. As the rural area of Khanpur-Makhnial lies in in the heart of mountains spreading over an area of 52869 acres comprises of sub-tropical pine and broad leaved ever green forest and about 17854 acres is either privately owned or joint communal property of the people and is under use of various land uses whereby 50% population is dependent on agricultural enterprises. Human interventions majorly mining, deforestation and intentional wildfire in summer are huge threats to biodiversity loss and source of mountain degradation and habitat destruction. Besides, ill-grazing systems, fodder collection, illegal wildlife hunting contribute to biodiversity loss. Keeping in view the contextual position, management of this scientific site would be very difficult in the absence of the custodian communities’ support and cooperation so, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Wildlife & Biodiversity Act, 2015 serves as conservation tool and provides mechanism for the participatory management of the such protected site under section 37. In addition to this, constraints could be streamlined by implementation of resourceful management plan ensuring habitat restoration, ecosystem resilience, nature-based solutions and development of communities of Scientific site. This would serve as a purpose in achieving aligned sustainable development goal No. 15 (Life on Land) ensuring sustainable management of forest, reverse and halt land degradation as well as biodiversity conservation.

ID: 3.8430

A Data-Driven Approach to Environmental Sustainability in the Conservation and Rejuvenation of National River Ganga from Indian Himalaya

Vasundhara Uniyal

Abstract/Description

Ecosystem services provisioning, regulating, cultural, and supporting are essential for sustaining life, economies, and policy frameworks. The Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES) incentivizes environmental conservation by rewarding sustainable practices. This study utilizes data analytics to assess the impact, efficiency, and sustainability of the Ganga’s PES initiative in the National Mission of Clean Ganga in the National River Ganga, India. The analysis examined a diverse dataset covering both environmental and socioeconomic factors included water quality indices, carbon emissions, and biodiversity statistics, while socioeconomic data encompassed population density, agricultural usage, and the economic benefits of ecosystem services. Several pre-processing steps were undertaken to ensure data accuracy and reliability. Data cleaning involved removing null values, duplicates, and inconsistencies, as well as standardizing data. Outlier detection and treatment were conducted using quartile-based analysis. Advanced data visualization tools were employed to create interactive dashboards and comprehensive reports, simplifying complex data for stakeholders and enhancing decision-making processes. A range of analytical methods was applied to derive meaningful insights. Comparative analysis identified trends and discrepancies, such as pollution hotspots through regional water quality assessments. Hypothesis testing validated assumptions regarding the relationship between industrial activities and water contamination, using statistical tests like t-tests and ANOVA. Additionally, these models and A/B testing methodologies were employed to evaluate the effectiveness of various PES-supported conservation practices. The integration of SQL and Python streamlined data collection and analysis workflows, reducing manual effort and minimizing errors. Predictive analytics and data-driven strategies highlighted critical pollution hotspots and established significant correlations between industrial discharge and water quality degradation. These insights help to policy framework for regulating the targeted conservation efforts. This study confirms that PES can be a powerful mechanism for balancing ecological sustainability with economic development. However, its long term success depends on data-driven policy refinements, stricter industrial regulations, and sustained investment in monitoring.

ID: 3.8670

Assessing mountain forest health: A Comparative Study between sacred grove and community forest of Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand, India.

Pooja Chaudhary
Rayal, Dr. Rajesh; Uniyal, Dr. V.P

Abstract/Description

The Indian Himalayan Region (IHR) is a crucial life support system known for its rich biodiversity and essential ecosystem services, including hosting four global biodiversity hotspots.Degradation of ecosystem in IHR is caused by the climate related catastrophe such as forest fire, floods, drought and human interference increasing vulnerability . This study focuses on the ecological, cultural and socio-economic roles of Hariyali Devi sacred grove in the Dhanpur range of Rudraprayag District, Uttarakhand, exploring the community managed forest and sacred grove. Hariyali Devi sacred grove is situated at 3000 masl is a temperate broadleaf mixed forest, surrounded by plants like Quercus leucotrichophora, Rhododendron arboreum, Quercus semecarpifolia, Abres spectabilis), and Lyonia ovalifolia. Presence of ethnomedicinal plants make this sacred grove a unique site for conservation. The research aims to examine the key differences between these forests, assessing biodiversity, ecosystem services as well as the impact of management practices on forest health. Additionally, the study will investigate the economic role of Community Forest in providing natural resources. The study will be depended on the field surveys for ecological assessments, interviews and participatory workshops. In context of climate change by external pressures like anthropogenic activities the study will assess the sustainability and resilience of both forest management systems. Preliminary findings suggest that sacred groves tend to maintain stable ecological outcomes due to cultural protection, while community-managed forests provide significant livelihood resources but face challenges from over-exploitation. Further investigation will address community participation in conservation efforts and develop a model that balances ecological sustainability with socio-economic development. Conclusively this study will seek to solution for sustainable forest management and promote collaborative approach to stakeholders to tackle climate change in the IHR. By integrating scientific knowledge with local practices, we aim to enhance the resilience of Himalayan ecosystems through active community involvement in conservation initiatives.

ID: 3.8879

Navigating Geopolitical Challenges and Power Dynamics to Transboundary River Governance in Hindu Kush Himalaya: A Regional Cooperation Framework for Sustainability Transformation under Climate Change

Prakash Chandra Tiwari

Abstract/Description

Hindu Hush Himalaya (HKH) constitutes headwater of large transboundary river-basins that sustain one-fourth global population. Climate change has stressed hydrological regimes of Himalaya and increased frequency of floods and drought causing substantial decrease in water availability. These changes in climatic conditions have not increased proportion of water, food, health and livelihood insecure population both in mountains and densely populated lowlands, but also have enormous regional implications for fundamental human endeavours ranging from poverty alleviation, climate change adaptation to sustainability transformation across South Asia. In addition, decreased availability of water and surging risks of flood and droughts have also threatened the peace and security in the entire region. Hence, it is necessary to evolve a multilateral transboundary river-basin cooperation framework among the riparian countries to support sustainability transformation in South Asia under climate change. Study navigated geo-political challenges and emerging power dynamics impeding regional cooperation, and conceptualized an institutional architecture to initiate hydro-diplomacy among riparian countries based on; (i) extensive literature survey; (ii) key respondents’ interviews; and (iii) focussed-group discussion with a range of institutions, political leadership, government officials, academia and non-governmental and civil society organizations across riparian countries. Study observed that geo-politically as well as socioeconomically South Asia is one of the most fragmented regions in the world, and growing power-disparities, economic imbalances, political distrust and conflictual inter-state dynamics have frozen hydro-diplomacy. However, common environmental and economic benefits of transboundary river cooperation that include: (i) integrated flood forecasting system; (ii) storing water in upstream river-basins for flood and drought mitigation; (iii) joint hydropower projects; and (iv) managing headwaters for increasing availability and access to water would stimulate riparian countries for multilateral headwater cooperation. It is expected that outcomes of research influence policy decisions to initiate hydro-diplomacy among the riparian countries in Hindu Kush Himalaya and help climate policy planners to realize the inevitability of regional river-basin cooperation to support sustainability transformation under rapidly changing climatic conditions.

ID: 3.8928

Glacier Retreat and the Restructuring of Ecological Networks

Gianalberto Losapio
Khelidj, Nora; Tu, Bao Ngan; Velasquez, Laura

Abstract/Description

Mountains serve as critical biodiversity observatories, offering unique insights into the ecological impacts of climate change. Among the most striking transformations in these environments is the retreat of glaciers, which is reshaping species distributions, forcing new biotic interactions, and restructuring ecological networks. However, how these emerging networks develop and respond to environmental change and in turn influence ecosystem functions remains poorly understood. In this presentation, I will synthesize recent studies examining how glacier retreat directly and indirectly alters biodiversity and ecosystem functions in mountain ecosystems. We observed sharp shifts in plant, animal, and soil microorganism communities, plant–pollinator and plant–soil microbe networks with glacier retreat. Plant facilitation and symbiotic interactions enhance biodiversity in recently deglaciated terrains, while plant competition driven by shrub encroachment and soil acidification in later successional stages reduced species persistence. Our findings reveal an initial increase in interaction diversity following glacier retreat, followed by an ultimate decline with glacier extinction. These cascading effects undermine key ecosystem functions and services, including regulating and material contribution from pioneer, threatened species. These results highlight the value of ecological network approaches in biodiversity assessment and underscore the need for integrated, long-term monitoring strategies that enhance biodiversity maintenance, sustain ecosystem services, and support human welfare in mountain regions.

ID: 3.9207

Climate Services for Supporting the Strategy for the Mitigation and Adaptation to Climate Change of the Autonomous Province of Trento (Italian Alps)

Michael Matiu
Napoli, Anna; Laiti, Lavinia; Barbiero, Roberto; Tombolato, David; Monsorno, Silvia Scarian; Bellin, Alberto; Zardi, Dino; Majone, Bruno

Abstract/Description

Recognizing the increasing urgency of climate change, many regional administrations are currently developing tailored adaptation strategies primarily grounded in the knowledge of the unique characteristics of their territories, including climate patterns, local atmospheric dynamics, topography, and, more importantly, environmental and socio-economic factors. Yet, exploiting this wealth of information to design effective climate strategies is still a problem. This study outlines the approach adopted to lay the foundation for the mitigation and adaptation strategy of the Trentino region, a mountainous area in northern Italy and part of the European Alps. Here, we present three major steps of this approach, highlighting the collaborative effort of several actors s: 1) Preparing a scientific report reviewing the existing knowledge basis about climate change impacts in the region, 2) Disseminating a synthesis to the general public, and 3) Creation of reference climate scenarios. The literature review revealed significant diversity in the extent and in the depth of analysis from scientific contributions in different sectors regarding the impacts of climate change in Trentino. This diversity was reflected in the informative report, in which a methodical process was employed to simplify and synthesize technical information without sacrificing scientific accuracy. We created climatic scenarios that balance e multiple aspects such as topography, data availability, and stakeholders needs. To achieve this we used a layered approach including spatially aggregated results, statistical downscaling, and high-resolution numerical simulations with a convection-permitting model. This study indicates a general increase in temperatures, with a more pronounced rising of winter minima and summer maxima. Extreme precipitation is expected to increase in intensity and frequency, while seasonal variations depend on the emissions scenario.

ID: 3.9581

Investigation of aerosol effects on diurnal cycle of precipitation amount, frequency and intensity over Central Africa.

Stella Lydie Matho Lontio
Komkoua Mbienda, Armand Joel; Demeko Yemih, Patience

Abstract/Description

Regional climate is affected by a wide variety of aerosols which modify through their radiative effects the precipitation distribution. In this article, the effects of aerosols, mainly dust aerosols on diurnal cycle of precipitation amount, frequency and intensity are investigated over central Africa by using the latest version of the Abdu Salam ICTP regional climate model coupled with the Community Land Model 4.5 as land surface scheme. Two sets of experiments have been conducted (one with aerosols interaction with dynamics and thermodynamics processes and another without this interaction) for a 10-year study period (2002–2011) and the Fourier transformation is used to study the 24-h cycle. In order to clearly understand spatial differences in RegCM experiments over central Africa, three subregions have been considered according to their land cover and climate characteristics. Our results indicate that the pattern of simulated aerosol optical depth (AOD) is well represented particularly northward of the study region compared to AOD from moderate resolution imaging spectroradiometer (MODIS) even if some differences in terms of magnitude are reported. The aerosols’ effects on diurnal cycle are generally not similar to those found in the amplitude and phase. The result pointed out that over the Sahelian region, atmospheric aerosol in general and dust in particular always induced a positive effect on diurnal cycle (increase the magnitude of the cycle) of precipitation intensities and in precipitation amount and precipitation frequency as well. But, the change is opposite in terms of amplitude and peak time over some subregions. It appears that the forcing of aerosols in solar radiation as well as in latent heat flux leads to the changes in the amplitude of the precipitation amount during the DJF and JAS seasons particularly during daytime. The changes in amplitude of the precipitation frequency are not consistent even if the corresponding phase always tends to increase by up to 5 h.

ID: 3.9637

Environmentally friendly agricultural and sustainable upland rice cultivation in the Thai highland

Adirek Punyalue
Yusuk, Pedcharada ; Jaikeang, Thanyaphisit ; Keawmuangmoon, Chaiwat ; Pawasut , Achara

Abstract/Description

Most farmers in Thai highlands are hill tribes. They grow rice for household consumption in two ways: upland rice and paddy rice. Traditional upland rice cultivation, each household has 5-7 areas, which are rotated to grow rice in each area every year. In preparing upland rice fields, farmers cut down trees and burn it, causes dust and soil erosion. Upland rice yields are only 200 – 300 kg/rai (1.25 – 1.88 ton/ha), which is not enough for household consumption. Highland and Development Institute (Public Organization); HRDI has encouraged farmers to change the shifting cultivation in 3 ways; (1) Transform upland rice to terrace paddy rice (2) Rotating upland rice with legume, and (3) Transform upland rice to alternative environmentally friendly crops. This was carried out in collaboration with farmers in Huai Thon village. Bo Kluea District, Nan Province, from 2014 to 2023. We found that (1) There were 96 households (76% of the community) transform upland rice to terrace paddy rice, the area requirement was reduced from 1.12 – 1.6 ha/household/year to 0.32 ha/household/year, and the rice yield increased from 1.25 – 1.88 ton/ha to 3.13 – 3.75 ton/ha, sufficient for family consumption throughout the year. (2) Rotating upland rice with legume (rice bean, Vigna umbellata). The rice yield of rotating upland rice with rice bean by 4.1 ton/ha, while traditional cultivation by 2.8 ton/ha. Rice bean had a dry matter weight of 5.48 ton/ha, which was equivalent to 88.1 N kg/ha returned to the soil. In addition, it was generated an income for farmers 540.1 $/ha. (3) Transform upland rice to alternative environmentally friendly crops, coffee and avocado, the area was transforming 106.4 ha (average 1.12 ha/household) and it make more income 91,485 $. The changing, in the part of economy, increased income average from 147.1 – 1,176.5 $/household/year to 2,941- 7,352 $/household/year. Socially, farmers strengthen to manage by groups. For environmental, alternative agricultural system can reduce burning in agricultural areas and increase forest area 216 ha. That good practices for environmentally friendly agricultural and sustainable upland rice cultivation in the Thai highlands.

ID: 3.9846

Mechanisms of Slope instabilities along the Hill Roads of Nepal: A Case Study from Beni-Jomson Road, Gandaki Province

Prakash Chandra Ghimire
Dhital, Megh Raj

Abstract/Description

Nepal is situated in the seismically active Himalayan region, where the construction of roads has notably increased the frequency of slope instabilities. These instabilities, including landslides, rockfalls, topple events, debris flows, and gully erosion, are commonly observed along roads in the Nepal Himalayas. This research investigates the causes and mechanisms behind landslides along a section of the Beni-Jomsom Road in Gandaki Province, Nepal. The study applies time series analysis to examine the mechanisms and frequencies of different instability types, taking into account various environmental factors along the road. The research employs specific tools GIS, WAVELET, SPSS, ORIGIN to analyze the landform, surrounding geology, geological structures, and geotechnical characteristics of the soil and rocks. The study reveals that the primary causes of instability along the road are translational slides, debris flows, and rockfalls/rockslides, with these events occurring repeatedly after road construction. The results highlight a clear connection between road-building activities and the occurrence of slope instability in the region. This research will serve as an important reference for authorities, providing valuable insights for managing and mitigating slope instability in future road construction projects. Key Words: Hill Roads, Slope instabilities, Mechanism, Time series analysis, Himalaya.

ID: 3.10429

Analysis of Glacier Variation and Historical GLOF Events of Badswat Glacier using Geospatial Techniques

Parisa Karim

Abstract/Description

Glaciers are very important natural resources of fresh water in the world. Sometimes glaciers are also called water towers. The Himalayan, Karakoram, and Hindu Kush “HKH” mountain series, having thousands of glaciers, play a vital role in the survival of humans and other living organisms in the adjacent areas. The glacier meltwater from the HKH region feeds dozens of rivers, including the Indus, Ganga, and Brahmaputra rivers, and other rivers of Pakistan, India, Nepal, China, and Afghanistan. These rivers play a vital role in agriculture, drinking, and hydro-power generation in the sub-catchment areas. Global warming and glacier melting is one of the major issues in the world, especially in the HKH mountain region, which eventually triggered Glacier Lake Outburst Flood “GLOF” events and is responsible for the destruction of infrastructure, bridges, agricultural land, and residential areas of the villages in the sub-catchment areas. Badswat Glacier is vulnerable to global warming and had multiple GLOF events in the past. This research aims to analyze the temporal changes in Badswat Glacier from 1990 to 2020 using remote sensing (RS) and geographic information system (GIS) techniques. Satellite imagery from USGS Landsat (1994, 2001, 2010, 2015, and 2021) was processed to assess glacier retreat, changes in snow cover, and the presence of glacier lakes. The findings indicate a reduction in glacier-covered area from 222.66 km² in 1994 to 206 km² in 2021, with a total glacier retreat of 480 meters over the study period. Multiple glacier lakes were identified, highlighting the potential risk of future GLOF events. Historical data analysis indicates that Badswat Valley experienced two major GLOF events, on July 18, 2018, and July 18, 2021. These events, triggered by sub-glacial lakes, caused destruction to agricultural land, blocked the Karambar River, and damaged infrastructure. The 2018 event led to the destruction of 2,431.52 kanals of agricultural land, while the 2021 event affected 1,245.41 kanals, destroyed orchards and homes, and displaced local communities. Both events highlight the increasing vulnerability of Badswat Glacier to climate-induced hazards and the need for proactive monitoring and mitigation strategies

ID: 3.10564

Nexus of Science and Society in Risk Perception: Lessons from the 2012 Seti River Flash Flood in Nepal

Deepak Aryal
Paudel, Jiban; lPokhare, Binod; Kattel, Parameswari; Munoz Christine, Jurt Vicuna

Abstract/Description

Western science and local knowledge are often rooted in distinct epistemological and ontological frameworks, leading to divergent ideologies and approaches to understanding phenomena, including risks and risk perceptions. This work explores the potential for collaboration between western or natural science and local knowledge to better comprehend flood risks in mountainous regions, using the 2012 Seti River flash flood in central Nepal as a case study. In this study the scientific knowledge—supported by facts, figures, and models—explains the flood as a consequence of increased water levels triggered by changing precipitation patterns, rapid glacier melt, glacial lake outbursts, landslides, and river blockages. On the other hand, local narratives attribute the flood to moral decay, cosmological imbalances, spiritual indeterminacy, greed, and environmental disruptions. The study also examines the failure of a relocation program for flood-affected households, highlighting the disconnect between external interventions and local realities. Findings underscore that while western science and local perspectives differ fundamentally in their explanations of risk, neither approach alone can fully account for the complexity of flood-induced risks. In this work we are mainly focus on the interaction and collaboration between these knowledge systems that can serve as a critical meeting point for achieving a more contextual and holistic understanding of risks. By integrating diverse epistemologies, this study advocates for interdisciplinary approaches to risk assessment and disaster management.

ID: 3.10846

Assessing the wind hazard of mountain forests through high-resolution remote sensed and climate future projections: a pilot study in the Italian Alps

Paul Richter
Fosser, Giorgia; Baggio, Tommaso; Lingua, Emanuele

Abstract/Description

Climate change is increasing the frequency and the magnitude of extreme meteorological events, including windstorms, which pose a growing threat to the forests and the ecosystem services they provide. In mountainous regions such as the Alps, forests play a crucial role in protecting against gravitational hazards, a function that may be compromised due to wind-induced damage. Identifying forests most vulnerable to extreme windstorms is therefore essential to enhance their resilience. In this study, we assess the forest wind vulnerability of the Cordevole catchment (~ 700 km2), using high-resolution LiDAR data to extract detailed stand and individual tree-level characteristics. These data serve as inputs for the semi-mechanistic ForestGALES model, which estimates the forest wind vulnerability. The probability and the magnitude of wind damages are calculated using km-scale Convection Permitting Models (CPMs) from CORDEX-FPS on Convective Phenomena over Europe and the Mediterranean (FPS Convection). Specifically, we used wind data from the CPMs ensemble for both historical (1996-2006) and future (2090-2099 conditions. The resulting maps show the likelihood of forest wind damage under both current conditions and RCP 8.5 future scenario, identifying the areas with higher exposure. The methodology to derive the forest wind susceptibility was validated for a smaller area respect the Cordevole catchment by using the observed damages of the Vaia storm, occurred in 2018. The final hazard maps classify wind disturbance hazard into three levels (low, medium, high). The spatial analysis highlights areas where active forest operations are necessary to improve the forest resistance. At the scale of the Cordevole catchment the extent of the cumulative hazard of forest damages will be double in the future compared to historical conditions. This study underscores the importance of integrating high-resolution forest and climate data to assess the vulnerability of natural resources against windstorms. By combining detailed forest structure data with advanced climate projections, the adopted approach provides useful maps for forest management and climate adaptation planning.

ID: 3.10991

Heritage, activism and guardianship: a way toward cultural sustainability? The example of the Alpine chapel of St. Erim and its landscape

Asja Gollo

Abstract/Description

Due to major socio-economic shifts that have happened over time, abandoned landscapes are widespread in the Italian Alps. While they are one of the visible signs of changes in land use and territoriality, in terms of emotional experience they also provoke a sense of loss and a feel of nostalgia for a temporal and spatial past. However, nostalgic feelings can be productive, enable actions ─ such as the recover and reuse of cultural landscapes ─ and significantly contribute to community renewal. In fact, the heritage value of landscapes that fall out of the purview of formal processes of patrimonialisation often emerge from those groups whose identity is embedded in those places. Based on ongoing research on the culture-sustainability nexus among ethno-linguistic minorities in the Italian Alps, this contribution focuses on the transboundary minority of the Brigaschi and explores the heritagisation of a small chapel and surrounding landscape located in the Alpine pastures of the Valle dei Maestri (Nature Park of Marguareis, Western Alps), where also a modern hut was built in the 2000s. Multiple landscapes (e)merge with each other and their components move at different paces, challenging the ethical and aesthetical dimension of the chapel’s heritagisation. The life cycle of this landscape and its heritagisation are discussed within the frame of cultural sustainability: the recover and reuse of this abandoned landscape can be seen as a form of cultural activism and its conservation is guided by principles of care and guardianship, both signalling that there is value in it and it is considered something to be inherited. Considering both the spatial/temporal and the ethical/aesthetical challenges, this contribution also reflects on whether the way this process is being handled by the minority and whether the latter has the potential to make the chapel and its landscape a meaningful long-term presence.

ID: 3.11251

Scoping EIA from Disaster Perspective

Vivek Vivek

Abstract/Description

Since the very inception of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) in 1986, the EIA has become a decisive tool in bridging the gap between environment and development. However, with the changing climatic scenarios and disasters becoming frequent and intensive, conservation of environment has become pivotal in day-to-day activities. Hence, this is forcing a relook into existing system of EIA from a disaster perspective. The paper elaborates the existing structure of EIA as been carryout by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) in India, and dissects it further to reveal its standard setup in the context of environment and disaster. The present scenarios of disasters are often outcomes anthropogenic activities done in the name of development, and these developments often lead the disturbance in the fragile ecosystems to disasters. This provides an entry point to relook into EIA procedure, identify causes and utilise the opportunity to take prompt corrective measures much before such development turns into a disaster. This paper helps in understanding enabling and corrective measures to effectively addressee the issue of environmental degradation induced disaster. The work contributes to a novel perspective to EIA by scoping disaster in the existing structure, and identify the steps that is falling short. The findings recommend essential introduction of Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) components to environment mitigation plan in a more cohesive way.

ID: 3.11347

Climate Change Velocity and Spatial Prioritization for Mountain Biodiversity Conservation

Qi Lai
Beierkuhnlein, Carl

Abstract/Description

Mountain ecosystems are among the most vulnerable to climate change, yet they also serve as essential refugia for biodiversity. Our research examines the impacts of shifting climate patterns on protected areas, with a particular focus on mountain regions, where species distributions and ecological processes are undergoing rapid transformation. Using climate change velocity as a metric, we identify areas experiencing accelerated habitat shifts, highlighting the limitations of static conservation boundaries in these highly dynamic landscapes.
By integrating high-resolution climate projections with environmental data, we developed a spatial prioritization framework to identify both biodiversity hotspots and potential climate refugia in mountain regions. Our findings highlight that high-altitude areas, such as the Alps, exhibit a high proportion of climate change hotspots, where species are exposed to rapid shifts in climatic conditions. Conversely, certain Mediterranean and Anatolian mountain regions act as coldspots, providing potential refugia due to their slower climate velocity. Importantly, we reveal that topographic diversity plays a critical role in buffering species from climate change, while areas with low topographic complexity face heightened exposure.
Effective conservation in mountain regions requires dynamic, climate-smart strategies. We emphasize the need for adaptive conservation planning that prioritizes both hotspots, where biodiversity is most at risk, and coldspots, which serve as vital refugia. Protected areas such as Natura 2000 sites that overlap with climate-sensitive mountain zones should be prioritized for conservation action, as expanding these networks remains challenging in densely populated regions. Strengthening the resilience of mountain ecosystems through targeted, forward-thinking conservation planning will be key to safeguarding biodiversity in the face of accelerating climate change.

ID: 3.11366

Andean Identity model

Fausto Sarmiento
Chávez, Renato

Abstract/Description

I am presenting the theoretical model that explain the conceptual framework of Andean identity. In the past, the notion of identity in the Andes have been referred as “lo andino” vaguely explaining the unique features of the people living in the South American cordillera. I am submitting a new look into the characterization of Andean people based on physical (Andeanity), psychological (Andeaness) and spiritual (Andeanitude) affiliations that interact to define the identity of the people of the Andes. In the past, anthropologists have equated the duality-based construction mimicking Asian philosophy of the dilemma of yin-yan. I have resurrected the philosophy of Ayni (reciprocity) to build scenarios of livelihood factors (geoliteracy), of epistemology (ecoliteracy), and of ontology (sopholiteracy) to crosscut the system with the transdisciplinary trend of montology, creating a trilemma of identity markers that explain the ‘essence’ of Andean being, between Yanantin, Masantin, and Tawantin present in individual or collective actions, in soft or hard pressures, or in contrasting opposing views or a continuum of choices.

ID: 3.11600

Mountain toponymy as heritage, The example of the summit of the Lebanon

Jack Keilo

Abstract/Description

Societies use oronyms to give meaning to and to change landscape (Ex. gr. The change from the Montagne maudite to the Mont Blanc). I aim to show how place names are used a posteriori to give political meaning to heritage landscape.
Qurnat es Sawda is the highest point of Mount Lebanon (3088 m), dominating the Cedars of God and the Qadisha Valley, both world heritage sites. This oronym’s etymology is subject to debate: in Arabic, it means «the black corner», used by goatherds and reported for the first time by Richard Burton in the 1870s. Meanwhile, the Maronite Church affirms that the etymology derives from the Syriac Qorno t’Sohde, «the Martyrs’ peak». In this regard, the oronym would relate to the Mamluk campaign of 1283 and the mass killings of many of the inhabitants, later Arabised to what it is now. This name interpretation, unknown in written sources before the 19th C., is officially condoned by the Maronite Patriarchate. The apparent banality of «the black corner» is transformed and integrated into the holy and Biblical landscape of Lebanon. In this regard, the oronym etymology becomes itself a cornerstone of meaning to a world heritage site legitimising the Maronite vision of Lebanon.

Burton, Sir Richard Francis, et Charles Frederick Tyrwhitt-Drake. Unexplored Syria: Visits to the Libanus, the Tulúl El Safá, the Anti-Libanus, the Northern Libanus, and the ’Aláh. Vol. 1 and 2. Tinsley brothers, 1872.
Gauchon, Christophe. « Construction toponymique ou mise en ordre du paysage touristique ? Le cas du massif du Mont-Blanc ». Actes des congrès nationaux des sociétés historiques et scientifiques 135, no 15 (2014): 79 94.
Giraut, Frédéric, et Myriam Houssay-Holzschuch. « Place Naming as Dispositif: Toward a Theoretical Framework ». Geopolitics 21, no 1 (2016): 1 21.
Keilo, Jack. « Naming the summit of Lebanon 1830-1930 ». In Conquering the world through cartography. RAOS, Brussels, 2023.
Patriarch Raï. « Letter of the Patriach Raï for the Martyrs’ year ». Saint Anthony Parish in Jdaydeh, 2017.
UNESCO. « WHC Nomination Documentation, Ouadi Qadisha and the Forest of the Cedars of God ». UNESCO, 1998.

ID: 3.11630

Herding in the Highlands: Biomolecular Insights into Human-Camelid Relationship in the Andean Mountains

Sarah Noe
Haas, Randy; Aldenderfer, Mark

Abstract/Description

The high-altitude Andes posed significant challenges for early human populations, including hypoxia, cold temperatures, and high metabolic demands. Despite these constraints, the domestication and management of llamas and alpacas enabled long-term occupation by providing essential resources for transport, mobility, and subsistence. Emerging evidence suggests camelid domestication occurred at multiple loci across the Andes, including the Lake Titicaca Basin, the Puna of northern Chile and Argentina, and the central Andean highlands of Peru. This presentation examines patterns of camelid domestication, management, and mobility through genetic and isotopic analysis. While genetic methods have been widely applied to domestication studies globally, their use in Andean camelids remains underdeveloped. By analyzing genetic diversity and dietary signatures from archaeological remains spanning multiple sites and time periods, we explore how herding strategies evolved in response to environmental and social pressures. This research contributes to broader discussions on human-animal interactions in extreme landscapes, highlighting how biomolecular approaches refine our understanding of long-term high-altitude adaptation.

ID: 3.11867

Biotic and abiotic constraints of Scots pine and mountain birch seedlings on the treeline ecotone of subarctic Finnish Lapland

Johanna Toivonen
Wallen, Henri; Stark, Sari; Kumpula, Jouko; Aakala, Tuomas

Abstract/Description

The range expansion and growth of tree seedlings on treeline ecotones are influenced by a combination of biotic and abiotic factors, including impacts of different land uses. Subarctic treeline ecotones are excellent manifestations of a stress gradient, where facilitation can be expected to increase and competition to decrease from favorable climatic conditions of closed forests to harsh climatic conditions of open tundra. We studied the growth and abundance of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) and mountain birch (Betula pubescens subsp. czerepanovii) seedlings on the treeline ecotone of the Finnish subarctic. We sampled 135 plots from an extensive reindeer pasture monitoring plot network, distributed in the main biomes of the ecotone: boreal coniferous forests, mountain birch forests and open tundra. In each plot, we measured seedling height, growth during the last three years (for Scots pine), described their microtopographic position, took soil samples and extracted climate data from the Finnish Meteorological Institute’s data. In this work, we will show the associations of seedling growth and density with climate and soil properties and intensity of reindeer pasture, aiming to shed light on the potential and requirements of these two species to maintain their dominance and to expand their ranges to open tundra, as the climate warms and environmental stress decreases in subarctic treelines.

ID: 3.12128

Winter Mountain Slopes Skied, Named, and Recognized: A Case Study of Freeriding in Hakuba, Japan

Nao Yoshizawa

Abstract/Description

Freeriding, which involves skiing outside designated ski areas, is gaining popularity worldwide. Previous research on freeriding has primarily focused on motivational factors and risk management. However, little attention has been given to the human-mountain relationship. This study examines how mountain slopes were skied, locally named, and widely recognized from a human geographical perspective, using the case of Hakuba, Japan. We employed a mixed-methods approach, combining both qualitative and quantitative methods. The qualitative approach applied historical geography methods, using semi-structured interviews with key individuals to illustrate how freeriding has been practiced and how the slopes have been named. The quantitative approach involved a web questionnaire survey conducted in 2024 (N=188) to assess general backcountry skiers’ recognition and usage of the slopes.
Until around the 1990s, freeriding was mostly limited to broad ridges leading to mountain summits, following hiking trails in spring. However, after the 1990s, freeriding areas shifted towards steep north-facing slopes and valley bottoms, where human activity had been absent for years. In the early stages of this shift, a pioneering skier—now President of the Hakuba Mountain Guide Association—began naming the slopes he skied. As a result, 27 slopes on the north- and east-facing aspects were given distinct names. Over time, these names gradually became widely recognized among local skiers. When Freeride World Tour competitions were held in Hakuba in 2017, the tourism office officially adopted these names to designate the slopes. The questionnaire survey revealed that recognition and usage rates varied by slope, with steeper slopes tending to have lower recognition and usage rates than others.
This study illustrates how the practice of skiing mediates the relationship between people and mountain landscapes, transforming previously unused natural spaces on mountain slopes into cultural places.

ID: 3.12537

Assessing Aridity Changes in the Cold Desert Ecosystem of Western Himalaya in Warming Climate

Pankaj Kumar

Abstract/Description

West Himalayan cold deserts Lahaul-Spiti, Kinnaur and Ladakh are highly vulnerable to the changes that result from rise in temperatures globally. The high-altitude arid areas have limited precipitation and extreme temperature making them more sensitive to any variations in dryness. Therefore, understanding how aridity has changed over time in these regions will help assess the effects of climate change and formulate suitable conservation measures. A drought index, Aridity Index (AI), is computed as a ratio of annual precipitation (P) over potential evapotranspiration (PET). This study analyses trends in aridity seen in Indian cold deserts since 1901 till 2022 using AI. Data for this research was obtained from CRU TS v4.08 which is a dataset containing detailed high resolution monthly climatic information. The study area was classified into different climatic zones based on their AI values then looking at each season: pre-monsoon season, monsoon season, post-monsoon season, winter season and agricultural seasons. Analysis indicates an expressively decreasing the intensity of aridity within cold deserts, thereby revealing how areas located in the north eastern part of these regions are moving towards hyper-arid condition. Seasonal variations were recorded, during which winter season showed the most substantial decrease in aridity as a result of western disturbances’ influence. On the other hand, analysing trends indicates that there is an overall decreasing dryness pattern as evidenced by a positive slope on the AI trend line signifying decreased dryness during this particular period of observation. In the rain shadow zone of the western Himalayas, the cold desert regions are finely adapted to low precipitation due to their unique topography. Increasing precipitation in these areas could lead to several negative consequences, such as soil erosion and the destabilization of fragile landscapes, which can result in landslides.Furthermore, an increase in precipitation can disrupt the delicate balance of local ecosystems, leading to changes in species composition and potential loss of biodiversity. Local communities may face challenges related to infrastructure damage, altered agricultural practices, and increased vulnerability to natural disasters. To avoid these consequences and guarantee conservation

ID: 3.12758

Properties and behavior of additively manufactured polymer objects in alpine environments

Bernarda Keßler
Brockschmidt, Sophia; Schafferer, Martin; Mandl, Bernhard; Schmiedinger, Thomas

Abstract/Description

BACKGROUND
Materials and components that are used in alpine regions are exposed to extreme environmental conditions such as sub-zero temperatures and high humidity. These factors influence the mechanical properties of the materials and can significantly impair their long-term use.

OBJECTIVES
The aim of this work is to investigate the mechanical properties and behavior of additively manufactured polymer objects in different temperature ranges. Based on the knowledge gained, it should be possible to select materials that are suitable for long-term use under difficult conditions.

METHODS
The present work focusses on the investigation of three materials: acrylonitrile-styrene-acrylate (ASA), polylactide (PLA) and polyethylene terephthalate, glycol-modified (PET-G). Standardized test specimens were produced under reproducible conditions using additive manufacturing. Some of the samples were stored in demineralized water at a constant 20°C for 168 hours (1 week). All samples were then subjected to tensile testing at -17°C, 0°C and +21°C.

RESULTS
It was found that the water absorption for the materials analyzed differed greatly in some cases, with PET-G showing the highest water absorption. With decreasing temperatures, a tendency towards increasing tensile strength was observed. The evaluation of the modulus of elasticity at different temperatures showed only minor changes. Differences were mainly found in comparison to the values given in the data sheets, with PET-G also showing the greatest changes here.

CONCLUSION
Additive manufacturing offers a wide range of possibilities for designing housings, brackets and connecting elements. By selecting suitable materials, resource-saving production can also be realized.
Two key statements that can be made are
– Low temperatures (-17°C) have no negative influence on tensile strength.
– The choice of material should depend on the requirements, i.e. ASA should be chosen for structurally stressed components (e.g. brackets for weather stations) and PLA for the housing (due to the lower water absorption).

ID: 3.12781

Sustainable Agriculture in Mountain Regions: Alleviating Water Stress with Eco-Friendly Cellulose-Based Hydrogels

Unnati Chaudhary
Rana, Vikas

Abstract/Description

Agriculture in mountain regions faces significant challenges due to water stress, erratic precipitation and fragile soil structures, exacerbated by climate change. Nature-based solutions are essential for enhancing ecosystem resilience and green, cellulose-based hydrogels derived from bamboo offer a promising approach to alleviate water limitations in these ecologically sensitive zones by enhancing soil moisture retention, improving crop resilience and reducing irrigation dependency. These biodegradable hydrogels can effectively support sustainable agriculture in the Indian Himalayan region, where traditional water management practices are often inadequate in the face of changing climate patterns. Hydrogels, which are three-dimensional polymeric network having the ability to absorb tremendous amount of water can be obtained from renewable natural resources owing to the limitations associated with synthetic petrochemical-based materials. The present research is an unprecedented work which inculcates utilization of bamboo for preparing cellulose-based hydrogels using non-toxic, environment friendly crosslinkers. The synthesized hydrogels after chemical crosslinking reactions showed appreciable water retention capacity (swelling degree) upto 1800%. The structure of the hydrogels was characterized and validated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) and X-Ray Diffraction (XRD). The current research provides a promising green strategy for synthesizing completely biobased ecofriendly hydrogels which are of increasing pursuit in the fields of mountain agriculture. Farmers in the Indian Himalayan region rely on rainfed agriculture with limited irrigation options, making water scarcity a major challenge. These hydrogels can therefore improve water-use efficiency, reduce irrigation needs and enhance agricultural crop yields, making them a valuable solution for boosting agricultural productivity of crops like finger millet (Eleusine coracana), amaranth (Amaranthus caudatus), buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum), barley (Hordeum vulgare), kidney beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) and apple (Malus domestica)—staples of Himalayan agriculture. This study also paves the way for future research on green hydrogels to promote plant establishment and accelerate forest restoration programmes in drought-prone mountain regions. Future efforts can focus on scaling up applications to support sustainable land management and climate-resilient refores

ID: 3.12819

The Use of Mountain Areas for Nature Education Within The Perspective of Sustainable Development

Emine Aybuke Yayla
KARADAG, Arife

Abstract/Description

Mountain areas are economically, socially and culturally important geographical units with unique natural resources, where living creatures survive. Today, problems such as the lack of a legal definition of mountain areas, unconsidered economic activities and uncontrolled settlements affect the protection of natural resources in mountain areas and the sustainable development process of these areas. In this context, it is becoming increasingly important to inform and raise the awareness of communities living in mountain areas about the natural environment they live in, sustainable alternatives in economic activities and cultural values that need to be protected in the development process. The research will use fieldwork and semi-structured interviews to identify the needs of a mountain area for sustainable development and the potential of nature education. Based on the data obtained, a nature education model will be developed and applied training will be carried out. As a result of the data obtained after this process, it is aimed to evaluate the effects of nature education in mountainous areas on the sustainable development of the area. This evaluation is important for the sustainable development of mountain areas in terms of raising the awareness of the local population, carrying out nature education for mountain communities and emphasising the need for this to meet the objectives of the development plans to be drawn up.

The data obtained from the fieldwork and semi-structured interviews conducted in the research will be SWOT analysed and the strengths and weaknesses of the implementation of nature education for development in mountainous areas will be revealed. The nature education model created from these results will be implemented in the research area as an applied training. During the training, a pre-test/post-test application will be made for the participants. The data will be analysed using SPSS software to measure the effectiveness of nature education in improving the awareness of mountain communities. The results of the research will be shared at the conference and the use of a mountain area for nature education in the context of sustainable development will be evaluated.

ID: 3.13025

Glacier fleas (Collembola) biodiversity and distribution as bioindicators of glacial ecosystems, also through “glacial” Citizen Science

Barbara Valle
Frati, Francesco; Gobbi, Mauro; Caccianiga, Marco

Abstract/Description

Springtails are edaphic arthropods particularly linked to glacial habitat and to cold biomes in general; they are the only group, among Alpine arthropods, including cryophilic ice-dwelling species, i.e. adapted to survive only in direct contact to the glacial ice: the so called “glacier fleas”. Springtails are key components of glacier food webs, and their evolutionary history is strictly linked to the glacial history. Glacier fleas represent an important portion of biodiversity at risk of disappearing with the ongoing climate change and subsequent glacier disappearance. Despite their relevance, springtail diversity and distribution have been few considered until now and, due to the lack of information, their diversity is underestimated hindering conservation efforts. The first comprehensive description of ice-dwelling springtails of European Alps and Apennines through integrative taxonomy approach was presented (morphological identification supported by the use of two mitochondrial gene, cox1 and 16s). The intense sampling activity was supported also by the contributions of non-expert sampler (because of the easy sampling), like alpinist, that implemented the field activity. Five species new for science were identified and described on the Alps, together with the two already known species. The evidence for two further new species to be described was also reported, with the first occurrence of a genus for the Alpine chain. Their current distribution suggests the presence of past refugia in the massifs characterized by higher glaciation that should be considered the hub of future conservation project of glacial biodiversity. On the other, on the peripheral areas, microendemic species other isolated refugia, particularly threatened. The study highlighted their biodiversity, ecological and biogeographic interest, together with the conservation concern in the context of the present warming cycle. Still a great work should be done for describing this threatened biodiversity. In addition, the opportunity to involve non-expert samplers increase the possibility to use glacier fleas as bioindicators and is currently object of an experimental citizen science project that involves alpine guides and organization that work on glaciers.

ID: 3.13216

Empowering Indigenous Peoples as Agents of Conservation – Exploring the Substantive and Enabling Rights of Indigenous Peoples in the Western Ghats, Kerala

Liji Kareyapath
Vijayan, Dhanya; Sam, Anu Susan; Miroslava, Bavorava

Abstract/Description

Indigenous peoples are globally recognised as agents of sustainability, as their unique knowledge, lifestyles, and skills provide practical solutions to many environmental issues faced worldwide. Several international agreements including the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) highlight the importance of Indigenous peoples’ rights and emphasise the importance of Indigenous peoples’ participation as key to achieving the SDGs’ ambitions. While many countries worldwide have endorsed Indigenous rights and created policies to support them, challenges in implementation persist globally. Similarly, enabling Indigenous rights in co-management or participatory approaches in conservation efforts related to forest/environmental management and climate change adaptation/mitigation also shows nominal improvement. Studies equate the success of such a co-management / participatory programme with the rights that are enabled to the Indigenous peoples and the power that is shared with them in terms of decision-making. In this context, the present study analyses the substantive and enabling rights of the Kurichya community in the Kannavam protected forest of the Western Ghats, India, in relation to forest management policies and the Forest Rights Act (FRA). The study reveals the impartial and incomplete implementation of the FRA in the settlements, which in turn affects important substantive rights such as land rights and access rights. Although Indigenous people were involved in forest management, absolute decision-making authority and power-sharing were found to be an issue in the settlements, especially where the forest management programme did not produce the desired results. Our study therefore highlights the importance of ensuring the fundamental rights and active participation of indigenous communities in empowering indigenous communities and achieving the goals of participatory forest management and policies.

ID: 3.13278

Between Tradition and Change – social structures and settlement patterns in the Highland of Albania

Eltjana Shkreli

Abstract/Description

Nikc, an upland settlement in the Cem Valley of High Albania, is one of the last regions in Europe where the tribal system remained intact until the rise of communism in 1944, which transformed the community’s traditional lifestyle. The Kelmend tribe, deeply rooted in this region’s isolation, developed a unique cultural identity based on livestock breeding and, to a lesser extent, farming. The tribe’s social structure was reflected in its hamlets, which were organized around family units within broader kinship networks. These settlements served as both physical spaces and social structures, with the extended family or “brotherhood” central to resource management, decision-making, and the preservation of cultural practices. The design of the hamlets, with self-sufficient homes and agricultural spaces, was influenced by the harsh natural environment and the tribe’s dependence on ecological stewardship passed down through generations. This research explores the relationship between the Kelmend tribe’s lifestyle and its settlements, utilizing building archaeology and oral histories to investigate the evolution of settlement patterns and cultural traditions. The study emphasizes the symbiotic connection between the people, their land, and their resources, offering insights into how these remote hamlets both sustained and reflected the tribe’s cultural identity over time.

ID: 3.13458

Echoes from the Alps to the Rockies: The Story of Swiss Guides in the Canadian Mountain History- Focusing on Abbot Pass Hut

Hossein Rasaei

Abstract/Description

Edelweiss; not only is a famous endemic flower in the European Alps, but for centuries it has been a cultural symbol to alpine local communities, a pride of a mountaineering heritage in the Alps. Far from away in another continent, Edelweiss Village in Golden British Colombia has been home to Swiss mountain guides who reside in this golden destination in the heart of the Western Canadian Mountains. Last October 2024, many scholars and mountain enthusiasts gathered in Golden BC to celebrate the 125 anniversary of the Swiss Guides in Canada. Participating in this event made me conduct a historical and archival investigation of the Swiss guides’ legacy in the mountaineering history in Canada. To narrow down the research dinged into the story of Abbot Pass Hut, an iconic mountain hut that was built in 1922 by Swiss guides sponsored by The Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR). In addition to analyzing the written archives based on the published stories in the Canadian Alpine Journal (CAJ), this study also scrutinized the visual historical photographs stored in The Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies. The findings in a documentary style indicate that for centuries the hut has been a vital alpine shelter for climbing parties and expeditions. During the 1920s to 1950s, by taking advantage of the hut, many first ascents were made on Mt Victoria, Mt Lefroy, and Mt Huber by Swiss guides. Due to its socio-cultural importance in the Canadian mountaineering heritage, the hut was designated a national historic site in 1992. However, in 2022, after 100 years, the hut was dismantled due to geological erosion and climate change. In addition to the physical removal of the hut, its written and visual narratives were also buried in the Whyte Museum. In this study, we rejuvenate those stories to acknowledge the legacy of Swiss guides who not only revolutionized the mountaineering style in Canada but also built many socio-cultural connections in the Canadian mountaineering history.

ID: 3.18998

Automatic Weather Stations (AWS) in the Maloti-Drakensberg Mountains: Spatial Distribution, Applications, and Early Climate trends

Zandile Mncube
Clark, Vincent; Hansen, Melissa

Abstract/Description

Developing countries have faced many challenges when it comes to acquiring timely and accurate weather data. This is mainly due to sparse weather observation networks found in the continent. In response to this, the Appalachian State University (ASU) partnered with the University of the Free State (UFS) in the Mountain-to-Mountain project funded by the United State Embassy to create means to alleviate such issues. This project included installation of five Automatic Weather Stations (AWS) over the past three years at the UFS QwaQwa campus and the northern Maloti-Drakensberg mountains. These weather stations are the first of their unique characteristic in the geographic location with one of them being the only one in the alpine zone in Southern Africa. The main aim of this study is to introduce and detail the AWS and their advantages to the research world. The study will analyse the spatial distribution of these five AWS, outlining their geographic positioning and altitudinal range, source and evaluate possible partnerships and data dissemination methods with affected stakeholders and identify applications of the weather data from the stations. The study will do this based on the reports on available records of the climate indices such as precipitation trends, temperature variability and other extreme weather patterns observed in the mountains. The availability of the ASU-UFS AWS network offers great advantages that can assist in providing accurate local forecasting data and improve weather prediction accuracy. This calls for studies in mountainous regions to fully utilize the datasets offered from this network as this.

ID: 3.21210

Landscape evolution in deglaciating mountain environments

Jamie Macmanaway

Abstract/Description

Anthropogenic climate change is driving rapid deglaciation in many mountain environments. This has implications for water security, sea level rise, and geohazards such as landslides and glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs). In addition to posing hazards to human populations, such geohazards may also be important in controlling landscape evolution in regions transitioning from glacial to post glacial conditions. Nevertheless, this remains poorly understood. Analysis of a high resolution digital elevation dataset (ArcticDEM) is undertaken in order to better constrain rates of landscape evolution since the last glacial maximum (LGM) in the area surrounding the Greenland Ice Sheet. Metrics such as surface roughness, valley width, and valley depth are extracted and compared with an existing dataset of paleo ice sheet extent in order to determine whether a topographic signature exists for emerging post glacial landscapes. A comparison is also undertaken with reference to a mature post glacial landscape (the Scottish Highlands) in order to better understand the potential future evolution of such landscapes.

ID: 3.10010

OSTIV is linking science and air sports

Lezuo, Tobia

Abstract/Description

OSTIV [1] (Organisation Scientifique et Technique Internationale du Vol à Voile) is a network of scientists and organisations involved in disciplines that are important for gliding, paragliding, and ballooning. The Meteorological Panel [2] aims to collect and distribute knowledge and best practices for tailored weather forecasts. One of the achievements was the handbook on “Weather Forecasting for Soaring Flight” of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) [3]. It’s revision including making the content available online is one of the tasks the panel is currently working on.

The scientific results of the past 75 years of activity are archived in [4]. New publications deal with topics such as Large Eddy Simulations (LES) of thermals. The focus of the Met Panel’s research is mesoscale meteorology and especially convection and lee-waves for optimising the harvest of energy from the atmosphere, necessary for gliding and paragliding. As many paragliders and gliders prefer to fly in the mountains, convection above complex terrain of special interest for OSTIV.

The work of the MET-Panel has as well implications for the design of aircraft and for the flight safety including education and training.

What makes OSTIV’s research exceptional is that it can benefit from the experience and measurements gained during gliding activities. We therefore invite scientists working on relevant atmospheric processes, or those who are passionate about flight themselves, to join the MET Panel network, widening the interdisciplinary exchange.

[1]      https://ostiv.org/
[2] https://ostiv.org/sections/scientific-section/meteorological-panel.html
[3]      Technical Note No. 203
[4]      https://journals.sfu.ca/ts/index.php/op/issue/archive (until 1985), https://journals.sfu.ca/ts/index.php/ts/issue/archive (after 1985)

FS 3.236: Agricultural and non-agricultural jobs in rural communities and attractiveness of mountain areas

FS 3.512: Turbulent Exchange over varying terrain and ecosystem characteristics

FS 3.237

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