Session 2.3 Examining the Effects of Elevation Dependent Warming on Mountain Ecosystems

Abstract

With current climate change trends, high elevation areas are being impacted by elevation dependent warming at increasing rates. Differential warming in mountain ecosystems has impacted biodiversity, animal behaviors and migrational patterns, fundamentally changing high elevation ecosystems and their ecosystem services. Due to difficulties accessing mountain ecosystems, research has been limited throughout the world, indicating the need for further investigation. We use data and findings from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, United Nations and other independent organizations to examine the changing functions of mountain ecosystems due to elevation dependent warming through the lens of UN Sustainable Development goal 15.4. SDG Theme: SDG 15- Life on land Type: Short talk (e.g. PowerPoint, Google Slides)