Mountains: A Very Short Introduction

Mountains cover one-quarter of the Earth’s land surface and are home to about 12% of the global population. They are the sources of the world’s major rivers, affect regional weather patterns, provide centres of biological and cultural diversity, hold deposits of minerals, and are major centres of tourism. Mountains: A Very Short Introduction outlines why mountains matter globally, addressing the impacts of climate change on hydrological and ecological systems. Considering the risks associated with the increasing frequency of extreme events and ‘natural hazards’ caused by climate change, it discusses the implications for both mountain societies and wider populations, and the need for greater cooperation in adapting to climate change.