DECEMBER 11 - WORLD MOUNTAIN DAY

December 11 was established in 2003 as International Mountain Day by the United Nations to highlight the vital role that the mountain plays in people's lives and to remind the international community of its responsibility to preserve it. A mountain or mountain is a geological height on the surface of the earth, which exceeds 300 m and usually has a recognizable peak.

Mountains cover more than 25% of the earth's surface, provide basic food crops and most of the world's freshwater while 10% of the Earth's population lives in mountainous areas. Most of the world's rivers are fed by mountain springs and more than half of the world's population depends on mountains for water resources. However, they are increasingly threatened by the climate crisis.

The mountains are a refuge for many animals, rare plants and herbs, but also a constant bet of explorers and climbers everywhere, who want to conquer their peaks. The value and beauty of mountains is enormous, as in addition to their vital role, they promote a natural and alternative way of life. All of these are opportunities to be close to nature, to exercise, to relax from any negative thoughts and to fill our lungs with fresh air. We must maintain them so that they can continue to play an important role in the health of the planet and humans.

The highest mountains of Greece are Olympus, Smolikas, Voras, Grammos and Giona.