News

A review of the Respect the Mountains series

12.10.2016

Several mountain areas across Europe are a little greener, more vibrant and significantly less polluted following a successful International Mountaineering and Climbing Federation (UIAA) Respect the Mountains series held throughout the summer of 2016 across nine events in eight European countries. The series – partnered by KEEN – was created as a two-fold project. On a practical level lies the clean-up operation that witnessed the removal of five tonnes of waste across European slopes. The other, more significant, aspect is its legacy. Through dedicated workshops, practical field explanations from expert guides and following the project’s seven ways to Respect the Mountains, several hundred mountain volunteers were empowered to become ambassadors for the future.

The three-month series provided a showcase for the beauty and rich diversity of Europe’s mountain regions while, in parallel, highlighting the issues caused by tourist waste and the perennial threat posed by climate change.

Each event was a unique experience, embracing local culture and values and presenting their own geographical challenges. What united all nine gatherings was a common desire among volunteers to make a difference and foster a community under the slogan ‘Respect the Mountains’.

From Tenerife to the Carpathians

“We are delighted with the response to this new venture for our federation,” explained UIAA President Frits Vrijlandt. “We extend our thanks to our partner KEEN and to all of the volunteers and organizers who gave up their time and energy to ensure these events were both a success in achieving their objectives and in uniting mountain lovers across Europe. There is still a lot of work to be done in raising awareness about the environmental challenges the mountain regions face and educating more people to become active players in implementing change.”

“We are proud and happy that our combined efforts made it possible to organize such important events,” said Maren Tönnies, Marketing Events and Sponsorship Coordinator KEEN Europe. “We strive to reduce our impact on the environment, protect the places where we play and through events like these, we’re able to give back. It’s great to see so many people and volunteers share this value and that we take care of our environment together.”

News and photo by UIAA

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