A Group Photo of UVU Students and Orem-Lindon Rotarians After Observation of the International Mountain Day
On December 12, 2024, Utah Valley University students observed International Mountain Day by taking final examination for the Sustainable Mountain Development Class. Our Fall Semester 2024 POLS3630 class on Sustainable Mountain Development (SMD) included service-learning activities for enrolled students with a Utah Valley University Sustainability Committee and Orem-Lindon Rotary Club. Many of them students implemented through a Utah International Mountain Forum (UIMF), a coalition of student clubs at UVU by using a student-engaged learning (SEL) model. SEL encourages students to work together on solving practical problem with focus on SMD with the teacher Dr. Baktybek Abdrisaev providing an advice when they will need it. Curriculum also included writing a research paper on certain aspects of SMD in the State of Utah or in one of the mountain states around the world. As a highlight of the class the final exam included a presentation by students results of their research paper with joint discussion of its results with their peers. The final examination was scheduled for the International Mountain Day, established by the United Nations for December 11th.
Students and Orem-Lindon Rotarians in the Audience during the Final Examination
At the start of the semester, I really appreciated the opportunity to focus my research on a single country, Greece. This approach not only allowed me to delve into a specific context but also opened my eyes to the importance of focused and thorough research. By concentrating on Greece, I was able to examine its unique environmental and cultural challenges in detail, particularly in the context of sustainable tourism and sustainable mountain development and its implications for the mountain ecosystem. The preparations for this Final assignment began with a comprehensive review of Greece’s geography, history, and current tourism practices. Understanding the broader picture helped me to frame the challenges that Greece is facing today in mountain regions and connect them to global issues of sustainability. I dedicated time to reading academic articles and news articles every week, including works by experts like Dimitrios Buhalis and Vasiliki Galani-Moutafi, which provided insights into the structural and cultural backgrounds of tourism in Greece. These resources helped me to understand how tourism impacts not just the environment but also the livelihoods and cultural identity of local communities.
Ana Caballero Ferreyro Presents her Research Paper
This research was incredible in shaping my perspective on the very complex issue between tourism and sustainability. One of the most important aspects of this project was learning about the environmental degradation caused by over-tourism, particularly in fragile mountain areas. For example, I discovered how the development of tourism infrastructure can lead to deforestation, soil erosion, and biodiversity loss in regions like the Pindus Mountains. These findings made me more aware of the delicate balances required to maintain the ecological integrity of such areas while supporting economic growth. The role of water management also emerged as a critical issue, with mountain villages struggling to meet the demands of tourism during peak seasons. This highlighted the importance of sustainable resource use and the need for innovative solutions, such as rainwater harvesting and eco-friendly accommodations.
During the final examinations each student made a presentation of their research by highlighting main focus of the research, used methodology, and main results of their study. Examination was administered in addition to Dr. Baktybek Abdrisaev, who teaches this class also by Mike Rich, Cathy Ambrose, and Cholpon Akmatalieva, Orem-Lindon Rotary Club members and Tanicca Armstrong, Administrative Assistant III, History and Political Science Department. The event also included a ceremony of presentation of special certificates from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations for contribution to SMD implementation in 2024 to students and local community representatives.
Dr. Baktybek Abdrisaev Presents Ana Caballero Ferreyro Special Certificate with Recognition of Contribution to SMD Advocacy during 2024
Contributing to the International Mountain Day observation further deepened my understanding of how academic research can have a real impact on the world. This assignment underscores the global significance of mountain regions as vital ecosystems and cultural heritage sites. By presenting my findings, I felt a sense of responsibility for advocating for more sustainable practices that could preserve these landscapes for future generations. It also reinforces the importance of education for a more aware driving change. Sharing the challenges and potential solutions for Greece’s mountain regions not only informed others but also inspired me to think critically about my own role in prompting sustainability. One of the key learning outcomes from this assignment was the realization that sustainable tourism is not just about environmental conservation but also about fostering social equity and cultural preservation. I learned how community-based tourism initiatives can empower local populations, ensuring that they benefit directly from tourism revenues. This approach aligns with the principles of fairness and inclusivity, which are essential for long-term sustainability. Additionally, exploring Greece’s efforts to diversify its tourism offerings, such as promoting lesser-known destinations, gave me a sense of how strategic planning can alleviate the pressures of over-tourism in iconic locations.
Overall, this project was a transformative experience that enriched my understanding of sustainability, research, and advocacy. It taught me the value of research and exploration of critical analysis, skills that are applicable not only in academic settings but also in addressing real-world challenges. By contributing to the International Mountain Day observation, I felt I was part of a broader effort to highlight the importance of protecting mountain regions globally. This assignment has inspired me to continue exploring ways to balance development and conservation, ensuring that natural and cultural treasures are preserved for future generations
Ana Caballero Ferreyro, Vice President, Utah International Mountain Forum, a coalition of student clubs at Utah Valley University
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STUDENT PRESENTATIONS
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Bloomer Cade Cabadas Ismael Caballero Ferreyro Ana
Ellison Glory Forsgren Audrey Jones McKay
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STUDENT REFLECTIVE ESSAYS
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24-12-12-Audrey Forsgren Norway’s International Inspiration
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24-12-13-Mckay-Jones-15th International Mountain Day Observation at Utah Valley University
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24-12-13-Cade-Bloomer-Learning about Sustainable Mountain Development
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24-12-13-Glory Ellison Taking Final Examination by Hosting International Mountain Day
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