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Embargo 11am 23 October 2002

Mountain Watch, a new report from United Nations Environment Programme World Conservation Monitoring Centre reveals that perceptions of mountains as ever-lasting and immutable are unfounded and they in fact support fragile ecosystems that are vulnerable to impacts such as climate change, armed conflict, fire, seismic hazards and infrastructure development.

Mountain Watch provides the first map-based overview of environmental change in the mountains and its implications for sustainable development. A new analysis of global data is complemented with case studies drawn from around the world. Illustrated throughout with photographs and maps.

Mountain Watch has been compiled by UNEP-WCMC and the UNEP Mountain Programme to provide input into the Bishkek Global Mountain Summit (29th October- 1 November) which will be the culmination of the International Year of Mountains

Mountain Watch explores the complex relationships between upper and lower watersheds, mountain forests and alpine grasslands, mountain people and lowland urban dwellers. This report pioneers 'Mountain Science' and is the first global assessment of these valuable and vulnerable ecosystems.

Mountain gorillas in central East Africa, spectacled bears in the Andes and resplendent Quetzals in Central America are all clinging to ever shrinking patches of cloud forest. Mountain Watch supports decision making for sustainable development. (Case studies, maps and photographs available on request)

The report is produced by UNEP-WCMC and UNEP Mountain Programme in collaboration with the GEF, UNEP Regional offices, UNEP GRID Centres.

For further information, and a press pass please contact

Editors notes

The Bishkek Global Mountain Summit will be the final global event of the 2002 United Nations International Year of Mountains. It will draw together the ideas and recommendations generated throughout the year, from all levels and sectors of society.

On the agenda are new international and regional agreements and co-operation. As well as topics like tourism, biological and cultural diversity, and conflicts in mountain areas.

The 6-700 plus participants will include heads of state from the Central Asia region, as well as ministers and senior government officials from around the world. Other attendees will include the Aga Khan, the executive heads and senior directors from a number of UN organisations, and representatives of non-governmental organisations and indigenous mountain communities.

The Summit is being organised by the Government of the Republic of Kyrgyzstan with the assistance of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and other partner organisations, including FAO, the UN agency responsible for the International Year of the Mountains.

The Summit will run from 29 October to 1 November 2002 in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.

Representatives of the media are invited to attend. If possible, registration (via the web site) should be done by 21 October. Late registration might result in delays.
Please bring a letter of assignment from your editor and if you have one a valid press card.

Further information about travel, visas and hotels are on the web

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