Mountains are the water towers of the world. However, they are not only an
important source of water but also a source of key resources such as energy,
minerals, and forest and agricultural products. They offer a multitude of recreational
opportunities, and probably most importantly, serve as storehouses for biological
diversity. Mountains provide the living space for about 10% of the world’s population.
A much larger percentage of the population profits from the various services of
mountains, most of which depend on water.