Who we are
The International Institute for Sustainable Mountain Development (IISUMOD) is a committed voluntary association, focused on improving the lives of mountain communities while protecting and preserving mountain ecosystems globally.
Founded on November 15, 2017, in Rome, Italy, IISUMOD was established in response to the increasing need to raise awareness about the critical importance of mountains.
These majestic landscapes play an essential role in supporting global ecosystems, yet they face unique challenges that directly impact the people who call them home and the environment as a whole.
Our Vision
IISUMOD envisions a future where Mountain Organic Agriculture (MOA) and Nature-based Solutions (NbS) become a global model for sustainable food and agricultural systems.
This vision is driven by a commitment to advancing evidence-based research and development tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities of diverse mountain regions worldwide.
Our Mission
We are dedicated to advancing sustainable solutions by fostering research and development in Mountain Organic Agriculture.
Our goal is to secure a brighter future for mountain communities by enhancing livelihoods, ensuring food and ecological security, and protecting the environment and its resources.
Through these efforts, we aim to promote human rights, dignity, and security within a framework of sustainable mountain development that benefits people and ecosystems worldwide.
Our guiding principles (LIFE)
At IISUMOD, our mission is driven by the core principles of LIFE, reflecting our dedication to creating a sustainable and equitable future for mountain communities and ecosystems:
LIvelihood security: We prioritize the social and economic well-being of mountain communities, striving to create meaningful opportunities, especially for the most vulnerable populations, to improve their quality of life.
Food security: We are committed to ensuring access to safe, nutritious food, reducing poverty and hunger, and addressing challenges such as forced migration by fostering resilient food systems.
Ecological security: We emphasize the conservation, health, and stewardship of mountain ecosystems, valuing their inherent worth and ensuring their vitality for the benefit of both mountain communities and the planet.
Our Team
At IISUMOD, our dedicated team works collaboratively to achieve our mission of enhancing the lives of mountain communities and preserving mountain ecosystems.
Executive Board
The Executive Board provides strategic direction and leadership for IISUMOD.
Vittoria Pinca – President
Ram Bahadur Bhandari – Vice President
Livia Bartolomei – General Secretary
Scientific Board
Prof. Alfredo Di Filippo – Associate Professor, Botany, Department of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Tuscia University, Italy
Prof. Fabio Recanatesi – Associate Professor, Rural Land Planning and Geomatics, Department of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Tuscia University, Italy
Prof. Saverio Senni – Associate Professor, Agricultural Economics, Department of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Tuscia University, Italy
Prof. Simone Severini – Director, Department of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Tuscia University, Italy
Dr. Kunwar K. Singh – Senior Geospatial Scientist and Affiliate Faculty, AidData, Global Research Institute, William & Mary, Virginia, USA
Prof. Jagadish Timsina – Senior Advisor, Agricultural Research and Development, Sydney, and Senior Fellow, Global Evergreening Alliance, Melbourne, Australia