IISUMOD works across various initiatives to support the sustainable development of mountain regions, focusing on research, capacity building, knowledge sharing, and networking. Our efforts aim to conserve mountain ecosystems, enhance livelihoods, and promote global collaboration.

Research Lab

We design and implement projects aimed at preserving biodiversity, particularly products at risk of extinction, ensuring their survival for future generations.

Networking

We promote local, regional, national, and international networking by supporting initiatives and collaborations among individuals, organizations, and non-governmental entities working on mountain research and development. This includes fostering the exchange of information and experiences to strengthen collective efforts.

Strengthen Capacity

We are committed to empowering mountain communities and stakeholders through targeted capacity-building activities, including workshops, seminars, and training courses in collaboration with local municipalities and provincial governments, universities and research centers. These initiatives are designed to address sustainable development issues equipping participants with the knowledge and skills needed to drive meaningful change in their communities and beyond.

By prioritizing education and skill development, IISUMOD ensures that mountain populations are well-prepared to tackle ecological, social, and economic challenges while fostering sustainable development.

Share Knowledge

In collaboration with national and international universities, we organize academic tours and research initiatives. These programs connect professionals, researchers, and students to foster the exchange of innovative ideas and expertise between regions like the Alps and the Himalayas. We also promote the publication and dissemination of scientific and cultural works to advance knowledge.

Our working areas

IISUMOD focuses on key areas critical to the sustainable development of mountain regions. These initiatives are designed to address pressing global and local challenges while promoting long-term solutions for mountain communities and ecosystems.

Mountain Organic Agriculture (MOA)

In response to increasing challenges at both local and global levels, IISUMOD has developed the concept of Mountain Organic Agriculture (MOA).
This initiative envisions mountains as unified ecosystems where society and sustainability are intrinsically connected. MOA promotes alternative solutions to modern unsustainable agricultural practices by addressing issues of livelihood, food, health, ecology, environment, and economics within the framework of organic agriculture principles.

Utilizing tools, techniques, and practices suited for mountain development, IISUMOD also champions food sovereignty, the right of people and sovereign states to democratically determine their own agricultural and food policies.

Agrobiodiversity 

As biodiversity hotspots, mountain regions are integral to global ecological balance. IISUMOD supports the goals of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and its Program of Work on Mountain Biodiversity.
By promoting biodiversity conservation and Nature-based Solutions (NbS), IISUMOD integrates climate change resilience, food security, and indigenous varieties, often neglected and underutilized, with associated traditional knowledge into broader conservation and management strategies.

Mountain Medicine

IISUMOD emphasizes the sustainable utilization and management of medicinal plants.
These efforts, based on traditional knowledge, aim to enhance human health, bolster local livelihoods, and generate income opportunities while preserving cultural heritage.

Socio-economic Development

Socio-economic development is a cornerstone of IISUMOD’s mission. The organization addresses public concerns by advocating for social policies and economic initiatives that uplift mountain communities.
This includes indicators such as GDP, life expectancy, employment levels, personal dignity, safety, and civil participation.

IISUMOD actively supports advancements in technology, legislative changes, and responses to environmental and ecological shifts to promote sustainable mountain development.

Gender Equality

Recognizing the importance of gender equality, IISUMOD fosters women’s empowerment as a critical aspect of sustainable mountain development.
By promoting health, education, and social and economic opportunities for mountain women and men, particularly those from marginalized groups, IISUMOD works to create transformative change.

Capacity building and equal opportunity initiatives ensure inclusive progress toward environmental sustainability and community resilience.