Himalaya

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A groundbreaking exploration of the Himalaya reveals how climate change is reshaping this unique region, which encompasses Tibet and six of the world's eight major mountain ranges, housing nearly all of its highest peaks. With around 50,000 glaciers and the most extensive permafrost outside the polar regions, the Himalaya is vital for 35% of the global population, providing freshwater for agriculture, protein, and hydro-power. The vast area, comparable to Europe, has a sparse, often nomadic population that speaks numerous languages—many unwritten—and holds diverse religious beliefs. Politically fragmented, the region's borders span multiple nations, complicating efforts to address environmental risks, including extreme temperature fluctuations. Historically, the Himalaya has captivated explorers, botanists, and mountaineers alike. Today, it faces seismic instability as tectonic plates shift, amid a global dialogue on climate change. The author presents a compelling case for the Himalaya as one of the planet's most essential wonders, emphasizing the urgent need for an ethos of respect and understanding to preserve its extraordinary features before they vanish.