2024 Mid-Latitude Region and 3rd Pole Experts Group Meeting

The escalating impacts of climate change, driven by human activities, continue to threaten lives, devastate ecosystems, and contribute to rising sea levels. In response, the Mid-Latitude Region and Third Pole Experts Group Meeting (EGM) convened from 18 to 23 December 2024 to explore sustainable solutions, address policy gaps, and foster community engagement in adaptation and mitigation strategies.

Dr. Bernhard Seliger, Representative of HSF Korea, and Dr. Hyun-Ah Choi, Senior Researcher at HSF Korea, participated in the EGM to strengthen collaborative efforts. On the first day, Dr Seliger met with Her Majesty Queen Mother Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuk, Founding President of the Tarayana Foundation, introduced HSF Korea's activity and exchanged insights with the delegation from Nepal, Mongolia, RO Korea, and Bhutan.

During the Mid-Latitude Region and 3rd Pole Experts Group Metting, the participants tried to explore sustainable solutions, address policy gaps, and engage communities in adapting to and mitigating these challenges. Adapting to climate change, the experts discussed harnessing the power of ecosystem services to help valuable and vulnerable mountain regions adapt effectively to the impacts of climate change. They also discussed building resilience by promoting robust research methods and formulating effective policies. They agreed to expand partnerships to include new stakeholders, fostering collaboration and innovative solutions.

Dr. Seliger highlighted the critical need for international collaboration to protect migratory bird species, emphasising the importance of addressing this often-overlooked conservation aspect. Meanwhile, Dr Choi presented partnership opportunities, encouraging countries to explore collective strategies and shared resources to achieve mutual benefits in conservation efforts during the environmental and climate change crisis session on 19 December.