Believing that mountains can serve as inspiration, conscience, and model for community-based conservation in the next millennium, The Mountain Institute, a non-profit scientific and educational organization, is committed to preserving mountain environments and advancing mountain cultures throughout the world. The mandate of Agenda 21, Chapter 13 defines in large part the work of The Mountain Institute. The Mountain Institute brings nearly a quarter of a century of scientific, field-based experience to address challenges and opportunities facing mountain cultures, communities, and conservation. The Mountain Institute promotes sustainable economic development, and natural heritage resource management by mountain communities in the Himalayas, the Andes, and the Appalachians–the highest, longest and oldest mountain ranges in the world. These focused field programs are proving effective models whereby environmental conservation is served through community-based economic development and promotion of cultural heritage. The programs work in partnership with governments, agencies, organizations, and communities, striving to enhance people's ability to move toward their own image of a sustainable future. Most staff members are native to the mountain ranges where they work, with the Institute promoting exchanges of people, ideas and information from region to region. All programs have an ongoing monitoring and evaluation process that feeds into the mountain research agenda. Programs are place centered and most easily understood in light of work in integrated mountain protected area management.
