Contemporary human impacts on alpine ecosystems: the direct and indirect effects of human-induced climate change and land use

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Abstract

Alpine ecosystems account for ca. 3 % of terrestrial habitats yet, along with adjacent mountain systems, provide water resources to nearly half of the world’s human population. Approximately 20 % of humans live in or near mountain areas, making it inherently important to understand current impacts on these systems. Here, I review literature regarding current and projected human impacts on alpine ecosystems, including the direct and indirect impacts of human-induced climate change on alpine plant, animal, and soil communities. I also discuss the influence of recreation and tourism, grazing, and other land use changes including the introduction of non-native and invasive species in alpine systems. I conclude with management implications as well as future areas of research needed to better understand changes to these systems.
Publication type Book chapter
Publication Subtype Book Chapter
Title Contemporary human impacts on alpine ecosystems: the direct and indirect effects of human-induced climate change and land use
DOI 10.1016/B978-0-12-409548-9.11879-2
Year Published 2019
Language English
Publisher Elsevier
Contributing office(s) Southwest Biological Science Center
Larger Work Type Book
Larger Work Subtype Monograph
Larger Work Title Reference Module in Earth Systems and Environmental Sciences
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