Ecosystems are the areas of the landscape which consist of biologically integrated communities of plants, animals, and microbes, dominated by trees together with the local soils (substrates) and atmospheres (climates) with which they interact. Ecosystems are dynamic and are in a constant state of change.
Mountain ecosystems have ecological, aesthetic, and socioeconomic significance, not only for people living there, but for those living beyond—especially those in the lowlands who benefit from the ecological services mountains provide. Mountains represent unique areas for detecting climate change and assessing climate change impacts. Increasing awareness on climate change impacts the mountains, mountain ecosystems, and mountain communities.