Despite their mighty appearance mountains are real softies -when it comes to the effects of climate change. Host to a variety of climates and weather conditions they are real biodiversity hotspots. But mountains and the life they sustain – human and animal – are particularly sensitive to climatic changes. Today, on International Mountain Day, The UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) reminds us of just how important mountains are when it comes to protecting our climate.

For his shoot on location at Monte Rosa Hut in the Swiss Alps our reporter Sascha Quaiser took a short cut and ascended to the mountain shelter via helicopter. Here are a couple of scenes from his approach to the shelter, showing glaciers and stunning panoramic views of the mountainscape including the Matterhorn – one of the highest peaks in the Alps.

To watch his report and read more about the Monte Rosa sustainable mountain shelter, click here.

Medillin is the 2nd largest city in Colombia and, like many big urban centers, traffic and congestion–and chaos–often rules the streets. On top of that, many Colombians who live in suburbs on the steep slopes surrounding the city have long had a tough time getting to work and back every day. But local authorities have come up with an innovative and eco-friendly way to bring commuters in and out of the city: the Medillin Metrocable. Check out this report!