New MRD platform article presents GLOMOS’s systemic approach to mountain resilience

A new article by GLOMOS has been published in Mountain Research and Development (MRD), presenting the programme’s systemic approach to understanding and reducing risks in mountain regions. The paper appears in MRD’s MountainPlatform section and reflects on six years of transdisciplinary research and practice carried out by the Global Mountain Safeguard Research programme.

Titled “GLOMOS’s Systemic Approach Toward Resilient Global Mountain Social–Ecological–Technological Systems”, the article explores how mountain regions are shaped by complex interactions between climatic, environmental, social, technological, and cultural factors. These dynamics often produce cascading risks that extend beyond local scales, highlighting the need for approaches that go beyond sector‑specific or hazard‑based perspectives.

The paper discusses how GLOMOS applies a systemic lens to climate adaptation and disaster risk reduction (DRR), drawing on concepts such as social–ecological–technological systems, impact chains, and risk storylines. Particular attention is given to upland–lowland interdependencies and the role of mountain regions as providers of critical ecosystem services, especially water, under increasing pressure from climate change, glacier retreat, and socio‑economic change.

The article presents GLOMOS’s work across three interconnected research lines: climate and disaster risk assessment and adaptation planning (CLAAP); the integration of diverse knowledge systems for preparedness and adaptation (KNOW‑DAP); and sustainable catchment and water management (SCATCH). Across these areas, the programme emphasizes participatory and transdisciplinary methods, integrating Indigenous and local knowledge and working closely with communities, decision‑makers, and international partners.

By linking research, policy, and practice, the article highlights GLOMOS’ contribution to advancing holistic, context‑sensitive approaches for resilience in mountain regions. It concludes that addressing mountain risks requires embracing complexity, equity, and collaboration across spatial, sectoral, and knowledge boundaries.

Read the article The full open‑access article is available in Mountain Research and Development: 🔗 Fontanella Pisa, P., Esmail, B. A., Chapagain, D., Cotti, D., Martínez, A. R., Rodriguez, L., Romagnoli, F., & Schneiderbauer, S. (2026). GLOMOS’s Systemic Approach Toward Resilient Global Mountain Social–Ecological–Technological Systems. Mountain Research and Development, 46(2), P5–P9. https://doi.org/10.1659/mrd.2026.00009