Founded in 1989 from the meeting between Professor Ardito Desio and Agostino Da Polenza, EvK2CNR is a recognized association that, for 35 years, has been dedicated to scientific and technological research at high and extreme altitudes, with a focus on the areas belonging to the so-called Third Pole (Himalayas and Karakorum). Over the years, EvK2CNR has redefined the world of mountain research through its constant presence in the mountainous regions of the Hindu Kush, Karakorum, Himalayas, in Nepal, Pakistan, Tibet, as well as in Africa, South America, and the Alps. It also established and manages the Pyramid Laboratory-Observatory, located at 5,050 meters on the Nepalese side of Mount Everest. This invaluable expertise provides crucial data and insights to address the increasingly evident climate crisis.
The scientific research conducted over the years has led to groundbreaking discoveries in the fields of earth sciences, environmental sciences, medicine and physiology, anthropological sciences, eco-efficient technologies, and environmental management systems. Through an interdisciplinary approach, EvK2CNR has developed projects aimed at enhancing scientific knowledge on climate variability and the impacts of climate change, providing high-quality long-term data that have been recognized in over 600 international scientific publications, including Nature.
In particular, with the SHARE project (Stations at High Altitude for Research on the Environment), developed in direct cooperation with UNEP (United Nations Environment Programme), WMO (World Meteorological Organization), and a dozen Italian and international universities and research institutions, EvK2CNR has made significant contributions.
Active in the field of ecology and international cooperation, EvK2CNR has also undertaken several projects, in collaboration with the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Italian Development Agency, to protect ecosystems, preserve biodiversity, and promote sustainable development for local populations. Notably, it collaborated with Pakistani authorities in establishing the Central Karakorum National Park, home to K2, fulfilling a long-standing dream of Ardito Desio. It has also created management plans for other national parks, such as Deosai National Park in Pakistan, and other protected environmental areas, helping to establish one of the largest protected mountain zones in Asia.
Recently, in collaboration with UNDP and with contributions from the Universities of Milan, Cagliari, and Gilgit-Baltistan, EvK2CNR completed the inventory of Pakistan’s 13,200 glaciers, the largest freshwater reserve in Asia. Similarly, it has launched training projects for porters and high-altitude guides aimed at developing sustainable tourism in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan. For the past 20 years, EvK2CNR has organized campaigns to clean the Baltoro Glacier and K2, removing over 80 tons of waste from the mountains, in collaboration with the Moncler brand.
The core principles guiding EvK2CNR’s work have always been the protection of natural resources, the preservation of cultural heritage, and the promotion of scientific research to support the sustainable development of local populations and mountain regions.
EvK2CNR MILESTONES
Launch of RATEAP project for the study of particulate air pollution at the Pyramid Completion of the network of meteorological stations “Pyramid Meteo Network” in the Khumbu Valley.
Installation of a permanent GPS station at the Pyramid.
Participation in the World Summit on Sustainable Development (WSSD), Johannesburg.
Launch of the DSS-HKKH Partnership Project, an outcome of WSSD.
Launch of the Snow Leopard Project in Nepal.
Launch of “Up Project”.
Karakorum Trust intervention for emergency earthquake aid in Pakistan.
SHARE-Asia becomes SHARE with installation of weather station on Mt. Ruwenzori, Uganda.
EARTH unit patented.
The ABC Pyramid station becomes part of the GAW net of teh WMO.
Launch of the GEMM Project.
EvK2CNR accredited with Observer Status to the UNEP Governing Council / Global Ministerial Environment Forum (GC/GMEF).
EvK2CNR accreditation as NGO with Consultative Status by ECOSOC.
Admission at Unfccc - Conference of the Parties as Observer Organization.
Launch of SEED Project.
SHARE stations included in teh WCRP - GEWEX programme.
KEEP K2 Clean expedition.
Birth of CHILE Project.
Birth of NextData Project.
Launch of I-Amica Project.
EvK2CNR 25th Anniversary.
High Summit COP26, International Conference on Mountain, Climate Change, and Sustainable Development.
The Pyramid in Lombardy Region in occasion of Milano Design Week.
The first Italian and Pakistan female expedition on K2 to celebrate the Platinum Jubilee of the first K2 ascent.
Launch of the Water for Development Project.
OUR VISION
Become recognized for contributions made to the resolution of complex global problems concerning the environment, health and socio-economic development.
OUR GOAL
The EvK2CNR specialization lies in our capacity to work systemically using knowledge generated within a multidisciplinary framework while promoting the dissemination of science. EvK2CNR combines lessons learned through science with innovation to promote sustainable strategies for safeguarding the environment and improving the quality of life with a special focus on one of the world's most vulnerable and most valuable resources: mountains.
The EvK2CNR applies skills, tools, knowledge and methodology to sustainable development within a system of excellence that benefits from strong ties to mountain landscapes and populations, scientific competence and a thorough understanding of local needs.
OUR MISSION
Provide specialized scientific support for sustainable development in high altitude areas, promoting environmental conservation and a better quality of life for local populations.
OUR PRIORITIES
EvK2CNR IN FIGURES