Mountains of the World

Mountains of the World focuses on the human dimension of mountain development and on the science of mountain ecosystems, resources, and development. It begins by introducing the mountain cultures and peoples, the sacredness of mountains, and the economics and politics of sustainable development in mountain areas. Then the book deals with mountain water and energy resources, mining, biodiversity, conservation, tourism, forestry, farming, watershed management and erosion control, risk and disasters in mountain lands, and climate change. Finally, it offers much-needed agendas for scientific research and sustainable development in the world's mountains.