International Mountain Conference

Mountain ecosystems pose specific challenges for disaster risk reduction (DRR).  They are often prone to multiple disaster risks, may be difficult to access, while harboring a wealth of biodiversity, economic development but also extreme poverty. Mountain ecosystems provide prime examples of systemic risk and are at center stage in bearing the impacts of global warming. As the Sendai Framework for DRR 2015-2030 reaches its mid-term mark, this talk takes stock of challenges and opportunities for DRR in mountains.  We examine the Sendai Framework’s four priorities, the Sendai Monitor, and outcomes of the 2022 Global Platform for DRR from the standpoint of mountains.  We anchor the talk in examples from mountain communities in the Himalayas and the important role of science in turning challenges into opportunities for improved DRR. Recommendations are offered on how science can be more effective in answering policy questions relevant to DRR in mountains.