Where We Work
The Andes and Beyond
The Instituto de Montaña works hand-in-hand with remote mountain communities to address their most critical challenges. Our work revolves around three central themes: conserving mountain ecosystems, sustainable economic development and supporting unique mountain cultures. Since our founding in Peru in 1996, we have listened to the people who know mountains best — those who live there — and have worked closely with them to identify and implement solutions to improve their livelihoods and the health of their environments. We work with academic and technical experts while also partnering with government and development agencies. Innovative approaches developed by Instituto de Montaña have spread to mountainous countries around the world.
Andes
Since 1996 the Instituto de Montaña has worked in the world’s longest mountain range. Our inclusive approach bridges sustainable development, modern science and traditional knowledge. We help Andean communities become more resilient as they adapt to climate change. As partners, we create more sustainable mountain economies while protecting ancient cultures and fragile ecosystems.
Mountain EbA
The Mountain Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA) Program is expanding EbA work started in flagship sites in the Andes (Peru), Himalayas (Nepal), and Mount Elgon (Uganda). We seek to support the EbA approach being adopted in neighboring Bhutan, Kenya and Colombia. This EbAprogram will benefit local people directly, as well as the millions downstream who depend on the water and other benefits that come from mountains.
Global Initiatives
Not enough is being done on a global scale to protect mountain environments and support mountain communities. Perhaps due to their remoteness and seemingly immutable nature, mountains do not receive the attention they deserve given their essential role in providing water for billions and regulating the world’s climate. The Instituto de Montaña is playing an active role to ensure that mountain peoples, cultures and ecosystems are recognized in the global sustainable development policy agenda.