Scaling up International Mountain Day preparations
30.03.2020
The Mountain Partnership is getting a head start on International Mountain Day 2020 preparations this year, planning an international campaign to draw attention to mountains. This year’s International Mountain Day plans include new collaborations and enhanced resources based on Mountain Partnership members’ needs, as identified by a survey of Mountain Partnership members and friends about International Mountain Day.
The International Mountain Day survey revealed that engaging infographics are the most useful tools for spreading awareness of sustainable mountain development. The survey also confirmed a strong preference for online resources and materials rather than printed copies of infographics or posters – 77 percent of respondents prefer digital content.
Many survey-takers contributed helpful suggestions for the future of International Mountain Day resources. For example, it was suggested to create a network of International Mountain Day event organizers as a way to share experiences and ideas. To facilitate these discussions, the Mountain Partnership Secretariat has created a new Facebook group for International Mountain Day event coordinators to learn from each other and build solidarity. For those interested in taking part, click here to join the Facebook group.
Other survey findings confirmed an appreciation for a social media pack for International Mountain Day. Like in the past, this will include an online resource of prepared tweets and Facebook posts that are simple to understand and easy to repost.
Other popular survey suggestions included more videos and materials for children. Many respondents relayed that they would like infographics and materials that are region or country specific.
This year’s theme is protecting mountain biodiversity. IMD is a day to celebrate the rich biodiversity in mountains and understand the threats they currently face, and address the way to move forward within the post-2020 CBD programme. To share the global picture of mountain biodiversity, the Mountain Partnership Secretariat will be gathering stories from all mountains in the world to create a publication that showcases how biodiversity is linked to mountain life. The call for stories, to be posted in the near future, will ask participants to explain their mountain environment and why biodiversity matters to them.
It is never too early to start preparing for this year’s celebrations. We encourage all members and friends to begin International Mountain Day 2020 planning, such as by organizing hands-on activities, presentations, hosting students’ debates, photo and art competitions, hikes and events targeted especially to youth.
In the coming months, we will prepare communication materials in six languages, which will be made available on our website and distributed as hard copies to those who request them.
Meanwhile, join the conversation on social media using the #MountainsMatter. Pass on some of the key messages or post a photo of your favourite mountain moment and share it with us and your friends.
Write to [email protected] with news of the celebrations you are planning, so we can post them on our website.
Photo from Ruel Perez - Baslay Farmers Association
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