A golden sunset illuminates Table Mountain. Picture: Unsplash
On December 11, the world will observe International Mountain Day, with a particular focus on the people of mountainous regions and their innovative solutions for a sustainable future.
Under the theme “Mountain solutions for a sustainable future – innovation, adaptation and youth”, this year's celebration will spotlight the critical role mountains play in sustaining human life, preserving biodiversity and combating climate change.
Since its inception in 2003, International Mountain Day has endeavoured to raise awareness about the vital importance of mountains, not only as stunning landscapes but as essential ecological habitats and community lifelines.
Montane regions host approximately 15% of the global population and are home to about half of the world's biodiversity hotspots.
According to Selma Hercules, Executive Director for the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway Company (TMACC), Mountains are natural jewels we should treasure.
“They are home to 15% of the world´s population and host about half of the world's biodiversity hotspots. They provide freshwater for everyday life to half of humanity, helping to sustain agriculture, and supply clean energy and medicines,” she said.
Hercules also added that closer to home in Cape Town, South Africa has its very own Table Mountain that is host to over 2000 (mostly endemic) plant species and a variety of wildlife.
“International Mountain Day is the perfect opportunity to recommit ourselves to protecting Table Mountain for generations to come. Every single resident and visitor can make a difference,” she said.
Hercules said that TMACC has earned a global reputation for its commitment to responsible tourism, and its contributions to protecting the historic mountain on which it operates.
She added that the breathtaking journey by cable car offers panoramic views of the region’s stunning environment and natural habitat.
The Cape Floral Kingdom is the smallest of the world's six floral kingdoms but is home to over 9 000 plant species, 69% of which are endemic to the region.
“Visitors to Table Mountain play a crucial role in safeguarding this botanical wonder for generations to come. A key element of our approach is to involve every visitor and every member of staff in the process, and to help them embrace their role as co-stewards of the mountain and its rich heritage,” said Hercules.
She also added that with the summer season in full swing, it is important to remember the role that flames and fires play in the survival of our mountain.
The region experiences a yearly fire season that spans much of spring, summer, and autumn. Many plants, trees and shrubs are adapted to depend on these fires for their survival. Some fynbos species rely on fire to stimulate seed germination.
These periodic fires are thereby a natural feature of the mountainous landscape and help to rejuvenate the biome by clearing old growth and making way for new life.
“Visitors can help prevent unplanned fires by not lighting any fires on the mountain and raising the alarm immediately if they see smoke or a fire,” said Hercules.
TMACC recently held its annual Take a Hike Day, which combined a clean-up initiative with an emphasis on connecting with nature.
“It was more than just a clean-up. It was about creating a shared sense of purpose and knowing we are all playing a part in preserving this extraordinary landmark. We thank the 223 participants who helped us collect 58.78kg of rubbish from our mountain,” Hercules highlighted.
On International Mountain Day, both residents and visitors are invited to immerse themselves in the beauty of Table Mountain while becoming proactive stewards of this natural wonder.
“When you visit Table Mountain this summer, take a moment to acknowledge the beauty and splendour of this New7Wonders of Nature jewel and help us to protect it for future generations,” said Hercules.