Seyed Hossein Rasaei, Graduate Student, KSR Faculty, University of Alberta

Endorsement:  My research and practical experiences in environmental conservation, coupled with a deep understanding of the impact of climate change on mountain ecosystems, align with the goals of the CAUA's initiative. This plan's emphasis on actionable, research-based strategies for mitigating climate change resonates with my commitment to sustainable practices and conservation efforts.

Endorsed 2 April 2024

Detailed Bio: Cradled by Iran's most extensive mountain range since childhood, my early years were deeply influenced by the surrounding natural majesty, sparking a lifelong curiosity and commitment to the preservation of these formidable landscapes. My pursuit of knowledge through comprehensive workshops and courses on mountain tourism, sports, navigation, and environmental conservation, culminated in earning the qualifications to guide enthusiasts through the heart of these terrains. Among these, guiding international climbers up Mount Damavand, Iran's pinnacle at 5,600 meters and the highest volcano in Asia, was not only an honor but a profound educational journey. Interacting with climbers from diverse backgrounds, I witnessed firsthand the grave implications of climate change, notably in the diminishing icefalls and glaciers of this storied mountain, such as the once majestic Damavand Icefall, now a poignant symbol of environmental degradation. This experience at Damavand is a microcosm of the global environmental crisis afflicting mountains worldwide, threatening the very essence of communities reliant on them for tourism and livelihood. Witnessing similar challenges globally, like the shifting Khumbu Icefall on Everest, underscores the urgency for collective action. The fading glaciers across our planet, from the Alps to the Rockies, demand immediate and decisive steps to safeguard these irreplaceable gems for posterity. In my capacity as a scholar and steward of the mountains, I advocate for sustainable climbing practices and the implementation of principles such as "Clean Climbing" and "Leave No Trace," urging for a harmonious balance between human engagement and environmental conservation. As we stand at a critical juncture in the fight against climate change, it is our shared duty to champion the cause for mountain conservation. My journey from the verdant valleys of Iran to the academic halls of the University of Alberta, studying the nexus between mountain climbing and climate change, is a testament to the power of informed advocacy and action. Together, through education, awareness, and sustainable practices, we can turn the tide, ensuring that the majestic mountains that have long captivated our imagination and nurtured our spirits endure for generations to come, a legacy of our commitment to the planet and its future.