Balsiger, JörgZimmermann, Anne B.Azevedo, João C.Schmidt-Vogt, Dietrich2026-03-112026-03-112025Balsiger, Jorg; Zimmermann, Anne B.; Azevedo, João Carlos; Schmidt-Vogt, Dietrich (2025) Focus Issue: Innovation Pathways to Sustainability in Mountains. Mountain Research and Development. ISSN 0276-4741. 45:3, 1-30276-4741http://hdl.handle.net/10198/36024This editorial examines the role of innovation in promoting sustainable development in mountainous regions. It critiques simplistic narratives that frame mountains primarily as sources of renewable energy or as areas needing to be relocated due to climate risks, arguing that such perspectives neglect regional diversity and the capacity for action of local actors. The authors propose a multidimensional understanding of innovation that includes technological, social, institutional, and knowledge-based practices rooted in local contexts. The issue brings together studies illustrating how community practices, circular economy strategies, participatory governance, and knowledge co-production can address environmental and socioeconomic challenges. Overall, mountainous regions are presented as important locations for experimentation and learning in transitions towards sustainability.engInnovationMountain regionsSustainable developmentSocial innovationClimate change adaptationeditorial10.1659/mrd.4503