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Plastic waste has long been an issue in Nepal, with plastic litter found everywhere—from the world’s highest peak, Sagarmatha, to the rivers of the Tarai plains. But who is responsible for managing this waste?

The Local Government Operation Act of 2015 mandates local governments to manage waste effectively. However, the lack of adequate budget, resources, and awareness at the local level hampers these efforts.

While the distribution of royalties from natural resources is clearly outlined, with 50 percent allocated to the federal government and 25 percent each to the provincial and local governments (as per Section 7 of the Intergovernmental Fiscal Management Act, 2017), local governments in domestic tourist destinations often miss out. They struggle to benefit from the center or the National Natural Resources and Fiscal Commission (NNRFC).

The Constitution of Nepal (2015) grants the NNRFC the authority to recommend how investments and returns from natural resources should be shared among the three tiers of government. However, local governments in tourist hotspots do not receive sufficient budget or attention from the authorities.

Many local bodies lack essential infrastructure, such as landfills and garbage trucks. A 2019/20 survey by the Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS) of 271 municipalities found that while 85.6 percent of municipalities reported having waste transportation services, rural municipalities have made minimal efforts to manage plastic waste, often citing budget constraints.

Ramhari Gyawali, spokesperson for the NNRFC, explained that all 753 local levels in Nepal receive a share of royalties based on their contribution to royalty collection. This means that localities with thriving local tourism—especially those benefiting from rivers and forests—often receive a smaller share due to their lower contribution to royalties.

Local levels lack updated data on plastic waste, hindering systematic solutions

Take Sailung, located 3,146 meters above sea level in Dolakha district, as an example. It has recently become a popular hiking destination for domestic tourists, but the sight of scattered plastic waste detracts from its natural beauty. This issue is not confined to Sailung; it is prevalent across many tourist destinations and hiking trails in the country, including popular spots like Shivapuri, Jamacho, and Phulchowki, as well as along rivers in tourist areas.

What happens to the plastic waste? Often, it is either left behind or burned—both of which contribute to environmental degradation and climate change. Burning plastic releases harmful toxins, severely affecting air quality. Environmental expert Ujjwal Upadhyay, project team leader for the Collaborative Approach for Preventing Plastic Leakages in Rivers of Nepal (CAP), warns that burning plastic is a dangerous practice, as it directly harms the air and public health, even increasing the risk of cancer.

Nepal, famous for its majestic mountains and cultural heritage, now faces a hidden menace: plastic pollution. Despite existing laws aimed at reducing plastic use, single-use plastics continue to accumulate along the nation’s rivers and trails, burdening local communities and tourism. The question remains: what is the true cost of plastic pollution?

Kalapani, located in Sailung Rural Municipality-8, serves as the gateway for visitors heading to Sailung. The area is home to several hotels catering to tourists, but it is also burdened with significant plastic waste.

The ‘Tourism Master Plan of Kalapani and Sailung Area (2022-2032)’, prepared by Sailung Rural Municipality, highlights the importance of agriculture as the primary occupation of local villagers. The report notes that 38 percent of the total land area in Sailung is arable, though it is increasingly affected by changing climate patterns.

As noted by Bishnu Maya Shrestha, a local resident of Kalapani, snowfall—once reliable from mid-October—is now sparse, occurring only around February. This shift has a detrimental impact on local agriculture, with crops like cauliflower, corn, wheat, and potatoes showing decreasing yields.

Yet, the same report does not address one of the most immediate challenges: plastic waste generated by tourism. The lack of waste management initiatives exacerbates the problem.

Rimal Babu Shrestha, chair of Sailung Rural Municipality, acknowledges the issue but says they have not yet considered waste management for Sailung. “We sometimes collect plastic waste from the area and burn it,” he told ApEx. “Banning plastic is not an option, as implementation would be difficult,” he added. 

According to Shrestha, the rural municipality has no data on waste production, nor are there dustbins for tourists along the hiking trail. This lack of infrastructure highlights the broader challenge faced by local governments: a lack of resources, awareness, and effective policies to address plastic pollution.

Similarly, Khadichaur, located in Balephi Rural Municipality-7 of Sindhupalchowk district, is another popular spot for local tourists, where visitors enjoy the Sunkoshi River and local fish. However, like many other areas, the riverbanks are littered with plastic waste. Hotels along the riverbank dispose of their plastic waste directly into the river. When this journalist asked one hotel owner why they were discarding waste into the river, he simply replied, “Everyone does it.”

A similar situation exists in Balephi Rural Municipality. The local body does not collect waste. Ganga Bahadur Tamang, chairperson of Balephi Rural Municipality, explains that they lack a landfill site, which is why waste collection is not feasible. “We’ve asked hotel owners not to dump waste in the river, as the area is a tourist site, but they don’t listen,” he says. “We also don’t have a policy to impose fines.”

While tourism has undoubtedly contributed to Nepal’s economy, it has also exacerbated plastic consumption and waste. This growing problem not only threatens the environment but also tarnishes Nepal’s reputation as a pristine tourist destination. In fact, reports and social media posts from tourists reflect concerns over the visible plastic waste, a negative image that could impact Nepal's tourism industry.

Beyond tourism, plastic pollution imposes hidden costs on local communities. Local governments near popular tourist trails and urban areas face the burden of waste management, yet they lack the resources and infrastructure to cope with the volume of waste. Consequently, waste is often dumped in rivers or open spaces, exacerbating the problem.

Madhav Karki, an environmentalist and chief advisor to the Minister for Forests and Environment, highlights the additional dangers of plastic waste, such as its ability to block river flows and drainage systems, which can lead to floods. “Plastic waste also infiltrates agricultural fields, harming soil quality and crop yields,” he adds. “Communities that rely on local rivers for irrigation and drinking water face the risk of contamination as plastic waste degrades and releases toxins.”

In addition, inadequate waste disposal methods mean that plastic litter is often burned in open pits, releasing harmful toxins that pollute the air and threaten public health. Local residents near trekking routes are particularly vulnerable to the health and economic impacts of plastic pollution.

In many municipalities across Nepal, waste is disposed of improperly, with some even using forest land for disposal. Even cities like Bhaktapur and Kirtipur dump waste on riverbanks and in public areas. A 2020 study by the UNDP Accelerator Lab Nepal revealed that urban areas generate over 350 tons of plastic waste daily, with nearly a third of this waste ending up in rivers.

Upadhyay explains that the presence of plastics in rivers ultimately impacts human health. Microplastics from contaminated river water enter the food chain, affecting crops and aquatic animals, which humans then consume. A study reported by ‘The Guardian’ in Aug 2024 found that brain samples collected earlier that year contained, on average, approximately 0.5 percent plastic by weight. This discovery raises concerns about the potential health implications of microplastics accumulating in human tissues. Previous research has shown that microplastics can enter the human body through ingestion, inhalation, and dermal contact, potentially leading to inflammation, oxidative stress, and other adverse health effects.

This issue extends to wildlife as well. A recent study found that rhinos in Chitwan National Park ingest plastic items of various sizes and shapes, posing serious risks to their health and survival. Published in the journal ‘Global Ecology and Conservation’, the study analyzed 258 dung samples from the park, revealing that 10.1 percent contained visible plastic.

In response to the crisis, the government has implemented the Solid Waste Management Act (2011) and Solid Waste Management Rules (2013), though enforcement remains weak. One major challenge is the lack of waste segregation at the source, which complicates recycling efforts.

The Intergovernmental Fiscal Management Act (2017) unevenly allocates royalties, leaving domestic tourist hubs like Sailung underfunded for waste management. Despite the Local Government Operation Act (2015) mandate, local governments face critical shortages in budgets, resources, and essential infrastructure like landfills and garbage trucks

Nepal has a long history of attempts to ban plastic bags. The first initiative came in 1998 when Hetauda Municipality introduced a ban, though its effectiveness gradually faded over time. By 2010, other municipalities began implementing similar restrictions. In 2013, Kathmandu Metropolitan City took a significant step by enforcing its own ban on plastic bags. On 1 April 2015, the Nepal government introduced the ban on plastic bags, for the first time, following a directive from the Parliament Environment Committee. However, due to the massive earthquake, the ban could not be enforced properly.

In May 2022, the government introduced the ‘Action Plan for the Ban on Plastic Bags’, which included four key strategies: preventing the import of plastic bags thinner than 40 microns, banning single-use plastic bags thinner than 40 microns, providing grants to businesses for eco-friendly bag production, and encouraging individuals to use reusable bags while shopping.

In July 2023, the government introduced the ban on plastic bags and products that are less than 40 microns thick. This includes the production, import, sale, distribution, and use of these products.

In Oct 2024, the Department of Tourism announced a ban on the use of plastic bottles in four-star, five-star, and luxury hotels as part of a broader push toward environmental sustainability. This directive requires these establishments to use glass bottles or metal vessels for serving drinking water in hotel rooms and restaurants.

However, despite these legal reforms, enforcement remains weak.

“Political will is necessary for the strict implementation of these rules,” says Karki. “All three tiers of government, along with other agencies like the security forces, should unite and coordinate to enforce these rules.” He also adds that having similar rules nationwide would make implementation easier.

According to Upadhyay, reducing plastic use requires not only legal reforms but also a shift in people’s behavior. He also points out that Nepal lacks adequate research and data on this issue. 

Nepal’s iconic trekking trails and rivers, such as the Annapurna Circuit and Everest Base Camp, are increasingly burdened by plastic waste left behind by trekkers. Meanwhile, popular rivers like the Bagmati, Koshi, and Gandaki are heavily polluted by discarded plastic.

In response, the government launched the Sagarmatha Clean-Up Campaign in 2019 to raise awareness about plastic pollution in the mountains. Through the campaign, the Nepali Army has since collected around 119 tons of waste, with most of it being plastic.

Ang Babu Sherpa, leader of the Sherpa team for the ‘Mountain Clean-Up Campaign’, stated that up to 40-50 tons of garbage may still remain at South Col, the final camp before climbers attempts the summit, according to the Associated Press. “The waste there consists mainly of old tents, food packaging, gas canisters, oxygen bottles, tent packs, and climbing ropes,” he explained, noting that the garbage is layered and frozen at the 8,000-meter altitude of the South Col camp.

In recent years, a government mandate requiring climbers to return their trash or forfeit their deposits, combined with increased environmental awareness among climbers, has greatly reduced the amount of waste left behind. However, this was not the case in past decades.

According to Nepali Army spokesperson Brigadier General Gaurav Kumar KC, the Army’s role in national parks is limited to providing security, not collecting waste from hiking and trekking trails. He stresses the need for collaboration among the national park office, the Army, and other relevant departments and government agencies for effective waste control and management. “There should be strict rules and awareness initiatives for visitors at checkpoints. However, these rules won’t be practical if we don’t have sufficient dustbins in the area,” he explains. “Frequent signage indicating dustbin locations is also necessary to encourage proper waste disposal.”

Since waste collection falls outside the Nepali Army’s responsibilities, they do not have data on it. ApEx reached out to the information officer of Chitwan National Park for data on waste collection in the area, but they also lack any related records.

A survey conducted in 58 municipalities of Nepal in 2012 found that the average municipal solid waste generation was 317 grams per capita per day, amounting to 1,435 tons daily or 524,000 tons annually. 

A 2019/20 baseline survey by the CBS of 271 municipalities revealed that only 12 (4.4 percent) used transfer stations for waste processing.

Additionally, 99 municipalities (36.5 percent) had waste management plans, while 57.2 percent did not. Among the surveyed municipalities, 114 (42.1 percent) used landfill sites, 117 (43.2 percent) did not, and 14.8 percent did not report about their landfill site status.

And this is the latest data CBS has.

“Plastic waste management is not only Nepal’s problem, but a global crisis. However, many other nations and cities have banned it and enforced rules to properly address this issue,” Karki says, emphasizing that it is not an impossible task. “We should learn from international practices and implement them here as well.”

While international examples like Bhutan’s ban on plastic and Kenya’s policy against plastic bags offer hope, Nepal’s success in tackling plastic waste will depend on effective local solutions, such as waste segregation at source, recycling programs, and raising awareness about plastic’s environmental impact.

“Many countries have started producing electricity, bricks, cement, bitumen, and other products from plastic waste,” says Karki. “We should follow the 3Rs—reduce, reuse, and recycle,” he suggests.

This story has been produced with the support of the Internews Earth Journalism Network through the Media for Inclusive Green Growth project

By the third day of the 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) in Baku, Nepal had engaged in a couple of events. President Ramchandra Paudel addressed the World Leaders Climate Action Summit and also addressed a high-level session organized by Kyrgyzstan on ‘Advancing Mountain Agenda’. Nepal also hosted a high-level session titled “Addressing Climate-Induced Loss and Damage in Mountainous Regions,” and unveiled two projects—Managing Watersheds for Enhanced Resilience of Communities to Climate Change in Nepal (MaWRiN) and Building National Capacities of Nepal to Meet Requirements of the Enhanced Transparency Framework of the Paris Agreement (CBIT)—funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF).

In his summit address, President Paudel urged that vast resources currently allocated for arms be redirected toward adaptation and mitigation to safeguard humanity and ensure a habitable planet for future generations. “Not only have pledges for climate funding been insufficient from the outset, but the funds remain largely unmet,” he noted, pointing out that complicated procedures prevent targeted communities from accessing these funds. He called for immediate implementation of the “polluter pays and compensates” principle.

President Paudel also called for the rapid operationalization of the Loss and Damage Fund to assist vulnerable developing countries. He argued that climate finance should account for contributions from nations like Nepal, which preserve biodiversity, protect the Himalayan cryosphere and supply freshwater. Such countries, he asserted, should be adequately compensated for climate-related loss and damage.

Highlighting Nepal’s dedication to sustainable resource use, he pointed to increased forest cover and expanded clean energy production, which aligns with Nepal’s ambitious emission reduction goals under its second NDC, benefiting global environmental efforts. However, he cautioned, “The challenges of global warming and climate change far exceed our capacity and resources.” He also emphasized the need for technology transfer and adequate capacity-building grants under the Paris Agreement, insisting that climate finance be provided as grants, channeled through national treasuries for effectiveness.

President Paudel expressed hope that COP29 would make concrete progress on setting a clear NCQG (New Collective Quantified Goal) aligned with climate justice, equity and capacity to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius and advance sustainable development in least-developed and Himalayan nations.

In a session organized by Kyrgyzstan, Nepal pointed out that “due to the effects of climate change, young people from mountainous regions are forced to migrate, leaving the poor, women, children and the elderly to suffer the most.” President Paudel emphasized the need for integrated programs that simultaneously address poverty and climate change.

With climate indicators breaking records each year, people in mountain regions are facing increasingly harsh conditions. He cited the displacement of over 35 families from Thame village in Solukhumbu, Nepal, following a glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) last August, as well as the tragic loss of over 500 lives due to floods and landslides during the monsoon season. “The suffering and trauma from these disasters are long-lasting. Thorough assessment and increased preparedness are crucial to reducing future loss and damage,” he added.

Additionally, the launch of the MaWRiN and CBIT projects underscores Nepal’s commitment to enhancing community climate resilience and strengthening national reporting capabilities under the Paris Agreement. This event, organized in collaboration with Nepal’s Ministry of Forests and Environment (MoFE) and GEF, gathered stakeholders from Nepal’s Ministry of Finance, MoFE’s Climate Change Management Division, and global climate organizations.

The MaWRiN project, funded with $9m, aims to build climate resilience for Indigenous people and local communities in the Marin watershed. Through nature-based solutions and diversified livelihood support, MaWRiN is designed to empower vulnerable communities to adapt to climate impacts.

The CBIT project, funded at $1.65m, focuses on building Nepal’s institutional capacity to meet the Enhanced Transparency Framework (ETF) requirements of the Paris Agreement. By tracking progress on Nepal’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), CBIT will bolster Nepal’s climate reporting and accountability, targeting the submission of Nepal’s first Biennial Transparency Report (BTR).

Sindhu Prasad Dhungana, head of MoFE’s Climate Change Management Division, remarked on the importance of these projects for Nepal’s international climate commitments. “With MaWRiN and CBIT, Nepal is advancing its climate resilience and transparency, empowering communities while aligning national goals with global standards,” he said.

Esteban Bermudez, representing GEF, emphasized the projects’ importance in ensuring Nepal’s timely compliance with the Paris Agreement. Although he acknowledged some procedural delays, he praised Nepal’s ministries for their commitment and affirmed GEF’s continued support for Nepal’s climate objectives.

Dhaniram Sharma, joint-secretary of the Ministry of Finance, underscored the CBIT project’s critical role in enhancing transparency and accountability in Nepal’s climate action, highlighting MaWRiN’s focus on watershed management and community-centered sustainability. “While Nepal has received some climate financing, the escalating impact of climate change requires stronger financial backing,” Sharma stated.

Deepak Kumar Kharal, secretary of MoFE, closed the event by reaffirming the ministry’s commitment to supporting WWF Nepal in implementing these projects. He expressed optimism for increased international funding to scale climate resilience and mitigate the adverse impacts of climate change in Nepal. “These projects are not just a response to present challenges but a step toward a sustainable, resilient future,” Kharal concluded.

President Ram Chandra Paudel has drawn the world's attention to address the problems of climate change and poverty.

Addressing the high-level session organized by Kyrgyzstan in the course of ongoing COP29 in Baku, today, President Paudel viewed that climate change sufferers should be ensured justice, an integrated approach is essential.

"The youths from mountainous countries have migrated elsewhere due to climate change impact, while the poor, women, children and elderly ones are suffering worse. The programs to alleviate poverty and climate change would be launched together to address these twin issues."

He further reminded that the climate change is largely caused by the activities of carbon emissions by the developed countries, but the poor people from mountainous countries are bearing the brunt. "I hope the COP29 will be successful to guarantee justice to the victims," President Paudel mentioned in the session.

As the climate change indicators are breaking records every year, the people in the mountain countries are bound to live in the harshest condition, he said, adding that more than 35, 000 households of mountainous Thame village of Solukhumbu district were displaced due to GLOF (glacial lake outburst floods) in Nepal last August. Similarly, the floods and landslides that occurred in the monsoon took the lives of over 500.

"The suffering and trauma the disasters caused in enduring. Proper evaluation and further preparedness are imperative to minimize the loss and damage," he said.

According to him, as both Nepal and Kyrgyzstan are mountainous countries, they both share similar plights when it comes to climate change.

The event was also addressed by the President of Kyrgyzstan, President of Mongolia and Foreign Minister of Azerbaijan, among others.

Earlier, President Paudel had addressed the COP29 on Monday.

The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and UN Climate Change released urgent reports on the escalating levels of greenhouse gasses and the inadequacy of current emissions targets. Both reports underscore the dire need for rapid and aggressive climate policies ahead of COP29, which is set to take place in Baku from Nov 11 to 22.

The WMO reported on Monday that greenhouse gas concentrations reached unprecedented levels in 2023, driving global temperatures higher and committing the planet to years of warming. The UN agency’s annual Greenhouse Gas Bulletin highlighted that carbon dioxide (CO2), methane and nitrous oxide concentrations are all at record highs, with CO2 levels climbing at an alarming rate—up more than 10 percent in just two decades.

CO2 concentrations rose by 11.4 percent in the past 20 years, reaching 420 ppm in 2023. Methane and nitrous oxide levels were also significantly elevated, reaching 1,934 ppb and 336.9 ppb, respectively. These values represent 151 percent, 265 percent, and 125 percent increases from pre-industrial levels, according to the WMO’s Global Atmosphere Watch network of monitoring stations.

“These aren’t just statistics; every part per million and every fraction of a degree of temperature increase brings real impacts on our lives and ecosystems,” said WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo. The 2023 CO2 increase was 2.3 ppm—the 12th consecutive year with an increase above two ppm—driven by persistent fossil fuel emissions and aggravated by large-scale vegetation fires and the effects of El Niño.

The report underscores the difficulty in meeting the Paris Agreement goals to limit warming below 2°C, with an aspirational target of 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. “We are clearly off track,” said Saulo. She stressed that warming feedbacks—where rising temperatures reduce the ability of ecosystems to absorb CO2—pose an even greater risk.

Due to the long atmospheric lifespan of CO2, the current levels of global warming will likely persist for decades, even with rapid emission cuts. “The warming effects of CO2 will not dissipate quickly, locking in temperature increases for generations,” noted Saulo. Radiative forcing—or the warming impact from greenhouse gasses—has increased by 51.5 percent since 1990, with CO2 accounting for 81 percent of this rise.

The WMO report highlighted concerns over the durability of natural carbon sinks. Currently, oceans and land ecosystems absorb nearly half of CO2 emissions, with oceans accounting for a quarter and land ecosystems nearly 30 percent. However, as Deputy Secretary-General Ko Barrett noted, climate change could reduce these natural carbon sinks’ efficiency. “Warming oceans may absorb less CO2, while wildfires could release more carbon into the atmosphere,” Barrett warned, adding that climate feedback could intensify warming further.

The WMO pointed out that current CO2 levels mirror those of 3m-5m years ago, a period when global temperatures were 2-3°C higher and sea levels were 10-20 meters above today’s levels. With the WMO warning that ecosystems themselves might soon become net emitters of greenhouse gasses, Barrett stressed the urgency of addressing these “vicious cycles” that could exacerbate the crisis and have profound impacts on human society.

These findings align with the UN Environment Program’s recent Emissions Gap Report, which assesses the growing disparity between current emissions and levels needed to meet climate targets.

On Monday, UN Climate Change released its 2024 Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) Synthesis Report. The report evaluates the collective impact of current national climate plans on anticipated global emissions by 2030, underscoring the critical changes required to avert severe climate impacts. 

UN Climate Change Executive Secretary Simon Stiell emphasizes that this report “must mark a turning point, ending the era of inadequacy and sparking a new age of acceleration” with much bolder climate plans needed from all nations in the coming year. 

The report finds that combined global NDCs would lead to a mere 2.6 percent reduction in emissions by 2030 from 2019 levels, only marginally improving on last year’s two percent projection. This falls far short of the 43 percent reduction by 2030 needed to limit global warming to 1.5°C, as advised by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).

Stiell states, “Current national climate plans fall miles short of what’s needed to stop global heating from crippling every economy and wrecking billions of lives and livelihoods across every country.” He emphasizes that “much bolder new national climate plans can not only avert climate chaos—done well, they can be transformational for people and prosperity in every nation.”

The report serves as a wake-up call, highlighting that “emissions of 51.5 gigatonnes of CO2 equivalent in 2030—only 2.6 percent lower than in 2019—will guarantee a human and economic train wreck for every country.” 

Stiell urges nations to adopt “ambitious new emissions targets that are economy-wide” and ensure they are backed by “substantive regulations, laws, and funding to ensure goals are met and plans implemented.” He also emphasizes the need for new NDCs to detail adaptation priorities and investments to protect vulnerable sectors and populations.

With COP29 in Baku on the horizon, Stiell stresses the importance of converting commitments from COP28, such as transitioning from fossil fuels and tripling renewables, into concrete policies. He concludes that new NDCs will be among “the most important policy documents” of the century, setting a clear path for renewable energy scaling, strengthened adaptation, and accelerated low-carbon transitions globally.

Both reports aim to inform COP29 discussions, where decision-makers are urged to treat the surging greenhouse gas levels as a “wakeup call” and to adopt more aggressive climate policies.

UN Climate Change Executive Secretary Simon Stiell has called for an urgent and substantial increase in global climate finance to address the escalating climate crisis. Speaking at a Brookings Institution virtual event on Thursday, Stiell emphasized that while recent progress in climate finance is notable, it falls significantly short of the necessary scale required to protect the global economy and vulnerable communities from worsening climate impacts.

Stiell pointed to the fact that over a trillion dollars was invested in climate action globally last year, a major leap from just a few hundred billion a decade ago. Additionally, developed countries provided and mobilized over $100bn in climate finance to developing nations in 2022, according to Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) estimates. However, he warned that despite these advances, much more is needed to meet the global climate challenge, especially as countries around the world face mounting damages from extreme weather events and economic disruptions linked to the climate crisis.

“We’ve seen hundreds of billions of dollars of damage to countries, rich and poor, this year alone,” Stiell remarked. “We simply can’t afford a world of clean energy haves and have-nots. In a two-speed global transition, pretty soon everyone loses.”

Stiell stressed that trillions of dollars more in investment are needed to enable all nations to cut greenhouse gas emissions and bolster their resilience to climate impacts. Without decisive action, he warned, economies will suffer more severely in the years to come. He urged the international community to seize the opportunity of the upcoming World Bank and International Monetary Fund (IMF) Annual Meetings, where multilateral development banks (MDBs) will play a critical role in driving the climate transition.

While welcoming recent moves by the World Bank to increase concessional lending for climate action, Stiell noted that incremental changes will not suffice. “On climate finance, we have a need for speed,” he said, emphasizing that developing countries must have access to more funds, fiscal space, and debt relief to enable effective climate action.

He called on the G20, as the largest shareholders of the MDBs, to properly fund these institutions and support reforms to the international financial system. Stiell highlighted Brazil’s G20 leadership, noting its efforts to bring together climate and finance ministers—a collaboration that he hopes will lead to more concrete outcomes.

Looking ahead to COP29 in Baku, Stiell emphasized that a new international climate finance goal must be established, one that aligns with the needs of developing countries. “COP29 must be the stand-and-deliver COP,” he said, underscoring that climate finance is central to saving the global economy and protecting billions of lives from rampaging climate impacts.

Stiell also stressed the importance of public finance, calling for more grant-based and concessional funding, and underscoring the need to leverage private finance to scale up climate investments. Additionally, he called for mechanisms to ensure that promised funds are delivered, more support for adaptation, and the effective operation of the Loss and Damage Fund, established at COP28.

“We must fund a new generation of national climate plans,” Stiell said, urging governments to convert pledges made at COP28 into real-world results, such as tripling renewable energy, doubling energy efficiency, and phasing out fossil fuels.

In closing, Stiell warned against isolationist tendencies in a time of global fractures. “If we go down this path, it will soon be game over in the world’s climate fight,” he said, urging leaders to recognize that climate finance is in every nation’s interest and that boulder climate action offers a pathway to stronger growth, more jobs, and better health for all.

Nepal is highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, ranking as the 10th most affected country globally according to the Climate Risk Index 2021. The Global Vulnerability Index 2019 also indicates that Nepal ranks fourth globally, experiencing rapid glacier retreat, landslides, and flooding. 

Despite this, Nepal contributes minimally to global climate change. As noted in Nepal’s first Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) report in 2011, the country’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions are only about 0.027 percent of total global emissions.

This highlights the importance of climate justice. The principles of climate justice emphasize that those who contributed the least to climate change should not bear its costs disproportionately, ensuring that climate actions are equitable and just, especially for those most affected yet least responsible for climate change. According to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) framework, climate justice involves equity and common but differentiated responsibilities, recognizing the varying capabilities and responsibilities of different countries.

In Nepal, climate justice is a relatively new concept within climate change policy. The focus has mainly been on adaptation and mitigation, with climate justice issues often limited to campaign slogans about compensation from developed nations and the polluter pays principle.

To achieve climate justice and address these challenges, Nepal needs robust legal frameworks. However, Nepal has not even a Climate Change Act yet. Experts suggest that a dedicated climate change act is essential to ensure proper support for vulnerable communities and their representation in policy processes.

Without a dedicated Act, how is Nepal addressing climate change? Here is an explainer of Nepal’s major climate change-related acts, policies, and regulations.

Supreme Court order

On 25 Dec 2018, the Supreme Court directed the government to enact a new climate change law to address the effects of climate change, reduce fossil fuel consumption, and promote low carbon technologies. The court determined that a new law was necessary for Nepal to fulfill its international obligations under the Paris Agreement and its domestic responsibilities. It deemed the Environmental Protection Act of 1997 inadequate for addressing the need for climate change mitigation and adaptation measures. Despite this directive, the government has not yet made an integrated climate change Act. Although the Nepal Law Commission drafted a climate change Act, it has not been enacted.

Nevertheless, after the Court’s order, the government passed the Environment Protection Act of 2019 and the Forests Act of 2019, both aimed at addressing climate mitigation and adaptation measures.

The Environment Protection Act of 2019 includes provisions for Climate Change Adaptation (CCA) and mitigation planning. It stipulates that adaptation plans must prioritize vulnerable groups such as women, persons with disabilities, children, senior citizens, economically disadvantaged communities, and those in vulnerable geographical areas. The Act also establishes an environmental protection fund to manage climate change and other environmental issues.

Meanwhile, the Forest Act of 2019 was formulated to manage and utilize various types of forests in Nepal, including state-managed forests, community forests, collaborative forests, leasehold forests, religious forests, and private forests. Its provisions encompass benefits from carbon sequestration, emission reduction, and climate change adaptation as determined by the government.

Local government and risk reduction

The Local Government Operation Act, 2017 includes provisions for disaster management, environment conservation and protection, land management, and natural resource management as a joint responsibility of the federal and provincial governments. However, the Act overlooks special attention to climate change risks and necessary adaptation measures. Local governments have an environment and disaster management unit, but due to poor capacity, providing timely and effective responses for vulnerable communities (such as the poor, Dalit, marginalized, and indigenous people) during disasters is challenging.

Similarly, the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act, 2017 provides a legislative framework for managing disaster risks, including those exacerbated by climate change. It emphasizes preparedness, response, and recovery strategies. The Act establishes the District Disaster Management Committee and the Local Disaster Management Committee, which have functions and powers related to relief, recovery, rehabilitation, and resettlement. However, the Act is silent on issues of tenure security and tenure rights. Additionally, it includes provisions for a disaster and emergency fund to support disaster relief and response activities.

Climate change and environment policy

The National Climate Change Policy, 2019, is Nepal’s primary document on climate change, replacing the National Climate Change Policy, 2011. It aims to incorporate climate change considerations into all government policies, strategies, plans, and programs across various levels and sectors to promote low-carbon development and a green economy. The policy outlines agriculture-based adaptation programs targeting poor, marginalized, landless, indigenous people, vulnerable households, women, and persons with disabilities. However, it does not recognize women and marginalized groups as agents of change. It mandates that at least 80 percent of the climate finance received from international mechanisms should be used for local-level climate change projects.

The National Environment Policy, 2019, focuses primarily on addressing pollution and other environmental issues. It emphasizes environmental justice by applying penalties to environmental polluters (following the principle that polluters must pay) and compensating affected individuals and communities.

Net zero emission strategy

Nepal's Long-term Strategy for Net Zero Emission, 2021, aims for the country to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2045. The strategy emphasizes maximizing clean energy sources such as hydropower, solar energy, and biogas; decarbonizing the transportation sector; promoting sustainable agriculture; increasing and maintaining forest cover; and enhancing international cooperation on climate change mitigation and adaptation. It reaffirms the principles of Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI) and Leave No One Behind (LNOB) during the implementation phase.

NDC and adaptation plan

The Second Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), 2020, explicitly targets gender sensitivity in both mitigation and adaptation components, identifying Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI) as a crosscutting area. It mandates “equal access to women, children, youth, indigenous people, and marginalized groups during participation, decision-making, and benefit-sharing.” By 2030, it requires all local governments to prepare and implement climate adaptation plans focusing on women, differently-abled individuals, children, senior citizens, youth, and indigenous people.

The National Adaptation Plan 2021-2050 outlines short-term priority actions until 2025, medium-term priority programs until 2030, and long-term adaptation strategic goals until 2050. These aim to help Nepal better integrate actions and strategies to address climate risk and vulnerability. The plan recognizes women, indigenous people, and persons with disabilities as “vulnerable to current and projected climate hazards.”

L&D framework

In response to the Paris Agreement and the increase in extreme events within the country, the government developed the National Framework on Climate Induced Loss and Damage (L&D) in 2021. This framework presents a comprehensive strategy to address the impacts of climate change on the nation. It provides financial support, including insurance and compensation schemes, as well as technical and institutional assistance to communities adversely affected by climate change. The framework demonstrates Nepal’s commitment to tackling climate change challenges and protecting its people and environment from the adverse effects of climate-induced loss and damage.

A research paper published by ActionAid Nepal and conducted by the Environment and Engineering Research Center (EERC) indicates that key elements of climate justice are either missing or not clearly integrated into Nepal’s current climate-related laws and policies. The paper highlights the prevalent belief that poor, vulnerable, and marginalized communities should receive disaster preparedness training and support for rescue, relief, rehabilitation, and resettlement. However, these groups are often seen merely as recipients of support rather than as individuals or communities with rights to protection from climate-induced disasters.

The research paper highlights several challenges in implementing and enforcing climate-related laws and policies. One major issue is the presence of competing legal provisions, with overlapping jurisdictions among federal, provincial, and local governments, especially in areas like disaster management. Additionally, inadequate inter-ministry coordination at both horizontal levels (such as between conservation and development ministries at the federal level) and vertical levels (federal, provincial, and local) hinders progress. The complex nature of carbon emission mitigation and climate adaptation demands synchronized efforts, which are often lacking.

Capacity gaps at subnational levels further complicate the situation, as provincial and local governments frequently lack the necessary understanding and resources to address climate vulnerability and its impacts on agriculture, food security, public health, infrastructure, livelihoods, and forests. The issue is compounded by data deficiency, with Nepal suffering from a lack of updated and aggregated data on climate-induced hazards, loss, and damage. Overlapping jurisdictions can lead to scattered data across different levels of government, impeding comprehensive national-level data collection and analysis.

Inadequate budget allocation and climate finance management also pose significant challenges. Competing national priorities result in insufficient funding for climate initiatives, with a heavy reliance on international sources. The late climate budget tagging exercise and a lack of prioritization based on climate impact evaluation further weaken climate finance management.

Climate finance

Addressing climate change effectively requires legislative frameworks that facilitate adequate financing mechanisms for climate justice, particularly in adaptation and mitigation activities. However, several legislative gaps hinder the mobilization, allocation, and utilization of climate finance. The current legislative framework often lacks clarity on funding priorities and the distribution of climate funds, and it does not clearly define funding for priority areas and vulnerable populations.

Key financial funds and mechanisms established by law include the Environmental Protection Fund, created under the Environment Protection Act, 2019, and the Disaster and Emergency Fund, provisioned by the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act, 2017. Additional sources of climate finance come from national budget allocations, international climate finance through UNFCCC mechanisms, and climate-related budgets secured through bilateral relations and multilateral organizations, such as the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank (ADB).

The COP28 UN Climate Change Conference in Dubai concluded with a historic agreement on the operationalization of funding arrangements to address loss and damage. Commitments to address loss and damage started pouring in immediately after the decision was finalized, accumulating over $661m to date. But can Nepal benefit from these funds?

Lawmaker Madhav Sapkota notes that Nepal still lacks about nine essential Acts, which complicates the process of securing loss and damage (L&D) funds. He suggests establishing informal forums such as a ‘Climate Parliament’, an international cross-party network of legislators focused on combating climate change and promoting renewable energy. He points out that neighboring countries like India, Bangladesh, and Bhutan are already part of the Climate Parliament.

Development of climate change legislation in Nepal

• 1992: UNFCCC conference in Brazil
• 2005: Kyoto Protocol
• 2010: Readiness preparation proposal for REED
• 2010: National Adaptation Programme of Action (NAPA)
• 2011: Local Adaptation Plans for Action (LAPA) framework
• 2011: Climate change policy
• 2012: Rio+ 20
• 2015: Paris Agreement
• 2016: Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC)
• 2018: National REED+ strategy
• 2019: Climate change policy 2019
• 2019: Revised LAPA framework
• 2019: Climate change budget code
• 2020: Second NDC
• 2021: National Adaptation Plan (NAP)
• 2022: National framework on climate induced L&D
• 2022: Strategy for net-zero emission
• 2022: Assessment of climate financing allocation
• 2023: NAP 2021-2050

Pokhara: Dil Bahadur Gurung (67) of Tangting in Madi Rural Municipality of Kaski, which falls within the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), recounts his experience of increasing water scarcity in areas that once had abundant water even during winter.

Gurung, who operated a sheep farm for 30 years in  Kori, now a popular tourist attraction in the Annapurna Conservation Area, said that areas that previously had water sources in abundance during winter are now becoming dry. Gurung noticed a significant change in water availability when he led a team to study trekking trails to Kori in 2021.

The team, which started the trek from Krapu Hill in Jan 2021, faced water scarcity for both drinking and cooking on their first night at Chamro. Gurung recalled seeing previously abundant spring sources dry up for the first time that year. The team managed to provide water for the 20-member team with difficulty, he added.

Upon reaching the Kori Hill (3,800 meters), Gurung found that all known water sources had dried up. The team had to spend the night without food due to the lack of water. They later found a gallon of water in a locked shed which they used sparingly to quench their thirst. Gurung said he never experienced such water scarcity during his years of moving sheep farms across high alpine regions

The districts of Manang and Mustang, beyond the Himalayas, are known as rain shadow zones. However, these areas within the Annapurna Conservation Area have recently been experiencing heavy rainfall. The cold desert regions of Mustang and Manang are now facing increased incidents of flooding, resulting in loss of life and property.

Conservation expert Dr Hum Bahadur Gurung suggests constructing ponds to manage water resources, as the increasing dryness in high alpine regions during winter affects not only trekkers but also wildlife. Stating that the drying up of water sources could impact the biodiversity of high-altitude areas, he urged concerned authorities to address the issue. Since traditionally rain shadow areas have started receiving rainfall during the monsoon season, he urged authorities for new structures and development approaches to adapt to these changing conditions.

Rivers dry up as water is diverted into hydropower tunnel

Studies show that the rate of snow melting in the Himalayas is increasing. Recent research also indicates a growing problem of water sources drying up in high Himalayan and hilly regions.

Locals of Madi Rural Municipality in Kaski report an additional problem arising from human behavior causing streams to dry up. Bhupal Gurung, a resident of Sabi in Madi-7, said that temperatures have been rising during winter in recent years, and heavy floods during the rainy season sometimes force them to abandon their settlements. “As if it were not enough, hydropower projects divert all the water from rivers into tunnels during winter, causing the rivers to dry up and increasing temperatures in nearby settlements,” he said. “The river used to bring cool air when it was flowing. Now, the power projects have taken all the water into tunnels. The river is dry, and it’s getting hotter,” he said.

The drying up of rivers not only increases temperatures but also destroys biodiversity, according to Gurung. He said floods can force people to flee their settlements during the rainy season, while in winter, the dry streams affect those who rely on fishing for their livelihood. He has also observed fish populations disappearing, and aquatic animals and wildlife dependent on water are no longer seen.

Before the construction of hydropower projects, various species of water birds used to visit the local rivers. These birds are no longer seen these days. There used to be plenty of otters that feed on fish. With the streams no longer flowing, various fish species have disappeared, and the otters and water birds that came to feed on them are no longer seen, locals say.

Rivers and streams naturally have less water in winter. The situation becomes chronic when hydropower projects divert all available water into tunnels to maintain operations during this low-flow period. Devi Jung Gurung, chairperson of Madi Rural Municipality, said that the drying up of rivers affects not only the locals but also the environment, aquatic life and wildlife. He said that the disappearance of streams has led to the extinction of aquatic species and impacted the environment.

Locals say the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation (DNPWC) should monitor whether hydropower projects are releasing the mandated 10 percent of water flow into the streams as per their agreements. Dr Rabin Kadariya, chief of the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), said that they have been monitoring water release within their jurisdiction and sending letters to non-compliant projects urging them to adhere to the agreement. “We also respond to public complaints by contacting the relevant hydropower projects to ensure compliance,” he added. “So far, we have only been issuing reminders through letters and phone calls to non-compliant hydropower projects. From this  year, we plan to take legal action if the situation persists.”

Dr Kadariya remains hopeful that projects will comply with the water release agreements to avoid facing legal consequences. He also noted that water scarcity issues in streams are most critical during the months of Chaitra and Baisakh (mid-March to mid-May).

Local representatives say hydropower projects are being built within the Annapurna Conservation Area without proper consideration of the local environment and biodiversity.

The chairpersons of Annapurna Rural Municipality in Myagdi and Madi Rural Municipality in Kaski state that hydropower projects are being built in these biodiversity-rich Himalayan areas without any coordination with local governments. Projects receive construction permits directly from the federal government without discussing the status of local wildlife, aquatic life, or the appropriate elevation limits for construction with the rural municipalities, they added.

Bharat Kumar Pun, chairperson of Annapurna Rural Municipality, said that a hydropower project is being constructed up to Hum Khola at an elevation of 2,883 meters on the Northern Annapurna Base Camp trekking route. “Roads built for hydropower projects have shortened the North Annapurna Base Camp trek from 9-10 days to just 3-4 days. This has impacted the local environment and tourism,” Pun added.

Although environmental impact assessments are conducted, Pun said that the numerous hydropower projects along the rivers are affecting biodiversity by drying up streams during winter as they divert water into tunnels. Local representatives claim that while environmental impact assessment reports are prepared before project initiation, they often prove impractical.

Madi Rural Municipality Chairperson Gurung said hydropower projects in Himalayan regions are initiated with direct approval from the federal government, without coordination with local governments regarding potential impacts. This lack of attention to local biodiversity conservation is affecting the environment, he added.

Hydropower project work is ongoing near Kapuche Glacier Lake, Nepal’s lowest glacier lake, up to Hugu Goth, according to Gurung. 

Raju Acharya, director of Friends of Nature, an organization working in the conservation area for three decades, said hydropower projects at the foot of the Annapurna range are affecting the habitats and grazing areas of rare wildlife such as Himalayan black bears and snow leopards. He added that when projects fail to release the agreed amount of water into streams, it directly impacts aquatic life, plants and wildlife.

As many as 23 small and large hydropower projects are currently operational within the Annapurna Conservation Area, generating 312 MW of electricity. Eleven projects under construction will produce an additional 1,018 MW.

ACAP Chief Dr Kadariya said 69 more areas within the conservation area are under study for potential hydropower projects.

Unauthorized hotels, restaurants on the rise

The Annapurna Conservation Area has seen an increase in unauthorized construction of hotels and restaurants on government land. This trend has been growing since 2017, with many structures built during the Covid-19 pandemic. These establishments have been constructed by clearing forests within the conservation area by using locally sourced timber and construction materials.

The lack of coordination between local rural municipalities and the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) during the pandemic period allowed for the proliferation of these unauthorized structures, locals say. Some of these constructions reportedly involve investments from local representatives.

In 2010, the ACAP Liaison Office in Pokhara decided to confiscate houses and sheds built by encroaching on government and forest land within the Annapurna Conservation Area and slapped a fine of Rs 50,000 per person, as per Section 28 of the National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act, 1972.

The hotel operators challenged the decision in Kaski District Court. The district court, however, upheld the decision taken by ACAP Liaison Office in 2022. Recently, the Kaski District Court also upheld ACAP’s decision on five additional hotels. Rabin Chaudhary of ACAP Liaison Office in Pokhara, reported that two more cases involving structures on government land within the conservation area are still pending.

Out of 115 illegally constructed hotels, restaurants, and other structures on the Mardi trekking trail, the district court has now upheld ACAP’s decision on 16 hotels.

Previously, ACAP had the authority to investigate and decide on illegal activities within the conservation area. However, recent legal amendments require such cases to be handled through the district court.

With the increasing popularity of new trekking routes like Mardi Himal, Khumai, Krapu Hill, Kapuche Lake and Kori Hill, there has been a rush to build hotels and restaurants. ACAP data shows that 314 businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and tea shops, are operating on government land within the conservation area.

About 200 hotels and restaurants were registered before 2016. After the election of local representatives in 2017, rural municipalities demanded the authority to register and approve hotels. This has led to a situation where previously registered establishments haven’t renewed their licenses, and newly built structures have no legal basis for taxation. As a result, the government is not receiving any revenue from these 314 hotels built on land in conservation areas.

Conservation activists say that while local communities were once actively involved in forest and wildlife conservation, recent trends show locals building tourist infrastructure on government land without permission, focusing more on exploitation than conservation.

Record tourist numbers boost revenue

The Annapurna Conservation Area has reported unprecedented tourist numbers and revenue for the 2023/24 fiscal year. According to the ACAP, 222,180 tourists visited the Annapurna Region during the review year, generating a record fee of Rs 383.68m.

This year’s figures represent a significant increase from the previous year, which saw 172,510 visitors and Rs 306.6m in revenue. The current numbers also surpass the pre-covid peak of 181,000 tourists recorded in 2018/19. Of the total visitors this year, 117,845 were from SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) countries, while 104,296 came from other nations.

ACAP applies different fee structures based on visitors' origin. SAARC country nationals pay Rs 2,000 per person, while other international visitors are charged Rs 3,000. A nominal fee of Rs 100 is set for domestic tourists, although this is often not collected.

The substantial revenue from tourist entry fees has attracted attention from various stakeholders. However, conservation activists say the three tiers of government have not paid adequate attention to sustainable tourism development and biodiversity conservation in the region.

Revenue and ownership disputes

The management of the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) has been a subject of controversy. On 19 Jan 2024, the Council of Ministers decided to hand over the management responsibility of both the Annapurna and Manaslu conservation areas to the National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC) for four years. The management contract of the Annapurna Conservation Area had not been renewed since 16 Jan 2021.

While this decision resolved the uncertainty about who would manage ACAP for the next four years, the Gandaki Province Government and local bodies have been consistently demanding that the Annapurna Conservation Area, which generates the highest revenue among all conservation areas in the country, should come under provincial jurisdiction.

Surendra Raj Pandey, the Chief Minister of Gandaki Province, has been advocating for both ACAP and MCAP (Manaslu Conservation Area Project) to come under provincial control. He has been discussing this issue with local representatives from the rural municipalities within these conservation areas.

Chiranjivi Sharma Poudel, the Chief Attorney of Gandaki Province, stated that the provincial government is clear that conservation areas within Gandaki Province should be under provincial control. He argued that it is not legally sound for the federal government to entrust these areas to an NGO-model organization. Poudel explained that the government’s decision to hand over forest management of the two conservation areas to the NTNC was based on a law from 1972, which is outdated given Nepal’s transition to a federal system.

“Article 304 of the Constitution of Nepal, 2015, invalidates any laws that are inconsistent with federal principles,” he said, arguing that while the constitution gives management authority to the provinces, the federal government’s decision to give this authority to an NGO goes against the spirit of the constitution. He has advised the Chief Minister that this decision could be overturned if challenged in the Supreme Court.

The National Natural Resources and Fiscal Commission is a constitutional body responsible for distributing national revenue. It collects revenue from across the country and distributes it according to constitutional guidelines. There is a legal provision to distribute funds to provinces, the federal government, and local bodies on a proportional basis.

“Provinces should receive their share through the commission. However, no money is being deposited with the Commission as an NGO-model organization has taken over the forest management,” Poudel said. “This raises questions about financial transparency. The Gandaki province government, therefore, must insist that conservation areas within the province should be under provincial control.”

Juddha Bahadur Gurung, a member of the commission, revealed that they had recommended two years ago that royalties from ACAP should be distributed. The commission, according to Gurung, has suggested allocating 25 percent each to rural municipalities and the province, and 50 percent to the federal government. He noted that 16 rural municipalities in Gandaki Province that fall within the Annapurna Conservation Area, along with Ward-19 of Pokhara, would receive a share of 25 percent.

However, this recommendation is reportedly stalled at the Ministry of Finance. It has been suggested that the 50 percent allocated to the federal government would be given to ACAP and NTNC as management expenses. Gurung added that the commission recommended that the royalties received by provinces and rural municipalities should be spent within the designated conservation areas.

Roads shortening trekking trails

The world-renowned Annapurna trekking region is facing challenges due to road expansion, even in uninhabited areas. This development is disappointing tourists who come to enjoy trekking in the Himalayan region.

Sheshkant Sharma, former president of the Nepal Mountaineering Association’s Gandaki chapter, said while overall tourist numbers in the Annapurna trekking area are at an all-time high, there has been a decline in trekkers from Europe, the US and the UK who prefer longer treks.

“Road expansion has occurred in conservation areas without human settlements”, Sharma said. “Provincial and local governments haven't paid attention to the potential negative impacts. For instance, roads have been extended to uninhabited areas like Kruphu and Hugu Gotha near Kaphuche Lake in the Annapurna Conservation Area,” he added.

In Kruphu, the road was built with federal government funds. In Kapuche, despite requests to consider the sensitivity of the Himalayan region and biodiversity, a hydroelectric project has been constructed up to the base of the mountain.

Sharma said roads are being built to Nar-Phu region (4,200 meters), Dharmashala (4,650 meters) above Muktinath Temple on the way from Manang via Thorong Pass, Aalubaari (3,900 meters) on the Dhaulagiri trekking route, and Yak Kharka (3,860 meters) on the trail to Tilicho Lake from Jomsom.

As a result of road constructions, the Annapurna Circuit trek, which used to take 21 days, can now be completed in just one week. This has led to a decrease in tourists who prefer longer treks.

Conservation expert Dr Hum Bahadur Gurung warns that road network development in uninhabited high Himalayan areas could impact wildlife grazing areas and habitats, and increase the risk of landslides, among other problems.

Annapurna Conservation Area, spanning 7,629 square kilometers in five districts of Gandaki Province, was declared in 1992. The area is home to a population of 92,675 and serves as a vital source of clean water for Pokhara city.

The area is rich in biodiversity, home to over 1,800 plant species, 128 mammal species, 518 bird species, and hundreds of reptiles, amphibians and butterflies. It is the only conservation area in Nepal where all six native pheasant species can be found. The region also boasts cultural significance with sites like Muktinath attracting both Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims.

This story has been produced with the support of the Internews Earth Journalism Network through the Media for Inclusive Green Growth project

Stakeholders have expressed their concerns over the growing adverse effects of climate change on the Himalayas and called for urgent action to mitigate these impacts. Drawing the international community’s attention to this issue, they emphasized the need to reduce the effects of climate change on the region. They were speaking at the ‘International Dialogue on Mountains, People and Climate’, which began on Wednesday in Kathmandu.

In the opening ceremony of the dialogue hosted by Nepal, Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal emphasized the urgent need for a unified mountain voice to address the escalating concerns about climate change. “I firmly believe that a unified mountain voice is urgently needed to address the growing concern about the effects of climate change on mountain communities and the ecosystem,” he said.

Dahal also highlighted the necessity of economic and technical cooperation for countries most affected by climate change. He noted that the impact of climate change on mountains is unprecedented and that mountainous countries, being on the front lines of the global climate crisis, are disproportionately burdened by its adverse effects. He called for collective resolve to address this pressing issue.

Chief Secretary of the Government of Nepal, Dr Baikuntha Aryal, pointed out that climate change is causing snow and glaciers in the mountains to melt rapidly, transforming snow-capped peaks into bare rocks. He stressed the need for awareness of these adverse effects. “Last year’s international conference on climate change, COP28, also discussed the impact of climate change on the Himalayan region. We have succeeded in having this dialogue,” he said.

Aryal added that the mountains provide clean drinking water to 80 percent of the people living in these regions, emphasizing the necessity of protecting these vital water sources.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Narayan Kaji Shrestha, advocated for the protection of the earth by addressing the issues caused by climate change. He noted that the Himalayas are particularly affected, with melting snow posing significant problems, and emphasized the need for joint efforts to mitigate these challenges.

Shrestha said that climate change will continue to negatively impact mountainous countries like Nepal. He stressed the importance of awareness about these adverse effects and the necessity of limiting the global temperature increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius to prevent the rapid escalation of climate-related problems.

Secretary of the Ministry of Forests and Environment, Govinda Prasad Sharma, pointed out the risks faced by people in mountainous regions due to climate change. “Climate change is having an adverse effect on mountainous areas. Problems such as forest fires, melting snow, glacial lake outburst floods, and rising sea levels are increasing due to temperature rise,” he said. “The mountains and mountainous areas are at high risk due to the effects of climate change. It is necessary for everyone to pay attention in time to save the mountainous region from this crisis.”

Karen Welch, director of USAID, mentioned their ongoing partnership in biodiversity conservation and environmental protection in Nepal, and assured the continuation of this collaboration in the future.

Rosalaura Romeo of the Mountain Partnership Secretariat of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) stated that experience exchange programs are crucial for addressing the challenges faced by mountain countries. She noted that scientific data on the impact of climate change in the Himalayan region has been established.

The special representative of Kyrgyzstan, Dinara Kemelova, highlighted that the world’s mountains are home to 30 percent of the global population and called for collective efforts to protect them. She emphasized the global importance of mountains as sources of clean drinking water and hydroelectric power.

Hanna Singer Hamdy, the resident coordinator of the United Nations in Nepal, underscored the adverse impact of climate change on the Himalayas and its inhabitants. She stressed the need for cooperation to protect the Himalayas.

Bangladesh’s Minister for Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, Saber Hossain Chowdhury, expressed concern that Bangladesh’s very existence might be threatened by the melting of snow in the Nepal Himalayas due to climate change. He explained that rapid snow melting in the Himalayas could lead to flooding and other problems in Bangladesh. The minister emphasized the urgency of adopting timely measures and maintaining alertness to mitigate the impact of climate change. He also stressed the importance of minimizing climate change impacts and enhancing adaptation efforts to secure climate resilience.

Chair of the UN Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA), Harry Vireau, highlighted that disasters such as floods and landslides are increasingly occurring due to the effects of climate change. He emphasized the need for collective solutions to address these impacts.

Experts from 25 countries are participating in the Global Dialogue. More than 200 representatives from mountainous and small island nations, including Nepal, as well as members of the international community, development partners, INGOs, the private sector, and civil society are attending the program.

The experts will deliberate on topics such as coordination, prioritizing, and strengthening climate-resilient activities based on mountain ecosystems.

On the eve of the International Expert Dialogue on Mountains, People, and Climate Change, the Ministry of Forest and Environment (MoFE) held a consultation meeting with a media group to provide updates about the event. Nepal will host the event on May 22 and 23 in Chandragiri, Kathmandu, aiming to bring international attention to this critical issue under its leadership.

The two-day event will feature experts from 25 countries, focusing on enhancing coordination and prioritizing mountain-centric initiatives within the broader climate change agenda.

The dialogue aims to foster collaboration among mountainous countries and stakeholders involved in the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) programs. It also seeks to develop concrete roadmaps and strategies for mountain regions in preparation for the 60th session of the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) and beyond. The SBSTA meeting, scheduled for June, will include an expert dialogue on mountains, humans, and climate change.

The event will bring together over 200 representatives from mountainous countries, island nations, international organizations, development partners, NGOs, the private sector, and civil society groups. The chairpersons of the UNFCCC Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) and SBSTA, as well as representatives from the UNFCCC Secretariat, UN agencies, the World Bank, and the Asian Development Bank will also attend the discussions. 

The dialogue aims to facilitate collective insights and conclusions, which will be incorporated into the SBSTA expert dialogue, including Nepal’s initiative on Sagarmatha Sambad.

Maheshwar Dhakal, joint secretary at MoFE, told the media that the objective of this dialogue is to prioritize and strengthen efforts related to mountain ecosystem-based climate resilience in a coordinated manner. He emphasized that the dialogue aims to enhance the negotiating capacity of mountainous countries on climate change issues and to pressure the international community to mobilize necessary resources for climate adaptation and mitigation.

“The frequency of climate change incidents is increasing day by day, particularly in mountainous and hilly regions. Therefore, this dialogue will also be instrumental in raising a stronger institutional voice,” he said.

Buddi Sagar Poudel, joint secretary and chief of the Climate Change Management Division at MoFE, said the event will enhance the understanding of climate change impacts in the Himalayan region and their solutions. 

“Our conclusion is that this Dialogue will integrate expertise and experiences on the topic and develop a mountain climate resilience strategy along with a common resolve,” he told ApEx.

He added that Nepal is committed to including the mountain agenda in every aspect of the SBSTA dialogue to increase visibility for its climate initiatives. “In areas such as loss and damage, climate justice, climate finance, and climate technology, we will incorporate the mountain agenda,” he added.

Mountains are invaluable natural assets, supporting 25 percent of the world’s terrestrial biodiversity and encompassing nearly half of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. However, mountain glaciers are rapidly melting due to rising temperatures associated with climate change. This melting contributes to glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs) and sea-level rise, and threatens freshwater supplies for millions who depend on glacier-fed rivers. With gradual changes in temperature and rainfall patterns, extreme and slow-onset climate-related hazards such as GLOFs, landslides, and flash floods are increasing. Approximately 40 percent of the world’s population indirectly relies on mountain resources for drinking water, agriculture, biodiversity, and hydroelectricity.

Govinda Prasad Sharma, Secretary at MoFE says the presence of the SBSTA chair in the dialogue shows the commitment of mountain issues at the global climate negotiations.

Despite their significance and the threats they face, mountains still do not receive adequate attention and recognition in global forums. The global community has severely neglected the value of the vital ecosystem services provided by mountains. It is now critical to prioritize mountain areas in all global action plans. A unified mountain voice is urgently needed to address the growing concerns about the effects of climate change on mountain communities and the essential ecosystem services they provide.

Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal is scheduled to inaugurate the dialogue, which will feature opening and closing plenary sessions, along with thematic discussions focused on three main areas. These will include 10 sessions. First, climate science and mountain evidence, second, mountain solutions: common grounds and common understanding, third, mountain prospective: resources and opportunities. Each session will have the keynote speaker, presentation and the panel discussion and over 50+ global speakers will be making the deliberation.

The themes will examine the evidence of climate change impacts, vulnerabilities, and risks in mountainous regions, as well as emerging threats and the need for action both within and beyond mountain environments. It will also explore community-driven adaptation, sustainable policy frameworks, and the importance of climate justice and local perspectives. Also, it will highlight the potential for economic growth in mountain regions through transitions to cleaner energy sources, the mobilization of climate finance, and the promotion of global cooperation and regional partnerships.

The event also aims to minimize the loss caused by climate change in mountain communities’ lives and livelihoods by promoting adaptation measures, clean energy, innovation, and research. It will emphasize capacity enhancement for mountain communities and the promotion of multi-party cooperation and partnership on climate change finance.

Mountain regions support over 15 percent of the world’s population by providing essential resources such as food, shelter, and clothing, and serve as habitats for over 15 percent of wildlife, including various plant species. However, mountain countries have not reaped the expected benefits because they either have not effectively raised their issues and concerns in international forums or have not received adequate international recognition.

As a mountainous nation, Nepal has long advocated in international forums about the impacts of climate change on the Himalayas. Due to these efforts, the UN Conference on Climate Change (COP28) last year included, for the first time, the impact of climate change on the Himalayas in its decision-making and has since emphasized effective measures to mitigate this impact. It was a crucial milestone in recognizing the impacts of climate change on mountainous regions worldwide and laying the groundwork for further action.

Ever since the 2009 Copenhagen Climate Conference (COP15), the impact of climate change on the Himalayan ecosystem has increasingly drawn global attention. Despite Nepal’s persistent efforts to prioritize this issue in subsequent conferences, relatively little progress has been achieved.

The government have been highlighting the impacts of climate change on the mountains and their communities through various initiatives, including cabinet meetings in Kalapathar in 2009, the 10-point Everest Declaration, calls for an alliance of mountain countries in 2009, the Mountain Initiative, the Mountain Advocacy Summit in 2022, as well as numerous conferences, policy dialogues, and declarations focused on mountain actions.

Ahead of and during the COP 28 in Dubai, high-level government officials, including Prime Minister Dahal, emphasized that developed countries' pledges and actions do not align and called for them to raise their ambitions and urgently fulfill their commitments. They urged developed countries to increase climate finance to address the $100bn shortfall, double adaptation finance by 2025, and ensure fair financial arrangements without conditions, constraints, and compliances.

As the chair of the Least Developed Countries (LDCs) group, Nepal also demanded that the loss and damage fund be predictable, simplified, and adequate for LDCs and mountainous countries. One of the major achievements of the Dubai climate summit was the launch of the loss and damage fund, which aims to provide crucial support to vulnerable nations facing the brunt of climate-related challenges.

The government is set to host the International Expert Dialogue on Mountain, People and Climate Change starting May 22. 

The Ministry of Forest and Environment (MoFE) announced that the two-day event will convene experts from relevant sectors in Kathmandu with the aim of fostering consensus among mountain nations, stakeholders, and partners on shared challenges, particularly focusing on mountain-based solutions for addressing climate change concerns.

“This dialogue aims to facilitate a deeper understanding of mountain-climate issues and solutions among governments and stakeholders in mountainous regions and their allies. It seeks to foster the exchange of expertise and experiences, as well as to promote synergies,” said MoFE. 

The areas of collaboration include initiatives such as those outlined in the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) mountain work programs and mandates. The dialogue also intends to generate concrete roadmaps and strategies for mountain regions ahead of the 60th session of the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) and beyond. The SBSTA meeting is due to take place in June. 

According to Buddi Sagar Poudel, Joint-secretary and chief of Climate Change Management Division at the MoFE, around 10 participants including Harry Vreuls, chair of the SBSTA, have already confirmed their presence in the dialogue. “We have invited delegates from four fronts—ministers from neighboring and regional countries, officials from UNFCCC and mountain partnership focal point which include 63 countries, officials from 15 organizations including Climate Investment Fund and researchers, scientists and university professors,” he said.

Deepak Kumar Kharal, secretary of MoFE, expressed gratitude for the support extended by various development partners, civil society groups, and Nepali experts in the run up to the dialogue. He also urged all stakeholders, including the media, to contribute significantly to ensure the success of the event.

Mountains are invaluable natural resources, being home to 15 percent of the global population and nearly half of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. They provide essential ecosystem goods and services, such as freshwater and clean air, to communities worldwide, particularly those downstream. However, mountains face significant pressures from exploitation, degradation, and the impacts of climate change. 

Despite their importance, mountains often lack adequate recognition and representation in global discussions. The government is hosting the international expert dialogue to underscore the urgency of addressing the challenges and issues of mountain nations. 

Nepal has prioritized promoting the mountain agenda on the global stage lately. The COP28, held from 30 Nov to 13 Dec 2023 in Dubai, served as a crucial milestone in recognizing the impacts of climate change on mountainous regions worldwide, laying the groundwork for further action. 

In several platforms of the climate summit, high-level government officials, including Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal stated that developed countries’ pledges and actions do not correspond with each other and they must raise their ambitions and urgently fulfill their commitments. They also urged the developed countries to scale up climate finance to make up for the $100bn shortfall and double the adaptation finance by 2025, and ensure fair financial arrangements without conditions, constraints, and compliances. 

As the chair of Least Developed Countries (LDCs), Nepal also demanded that the loss and damage fund must be predictable, simplified, and adequate for LDCs and mountainous countries. One of the major achievements of the Dubai climate summit was the launch of the loss and damage fund to provide crucial support to vulnerable nations facing the brunt of climate-related challenges. 

The international dialogue to be held in Kathmandu will feature opening and closing plenary sessions, along with thematic discussions centered around three main areas, encompassing two plenary sessions and seven dialogues addressing various aspects of climate change adaptation and mitigation.

The first theme will delve into topics such as evidence of climate change impact, vulnerability, and risks in mountainous regions, as well as emerging threats and the imperative for action within and beyond mountain environments. The second will explore areas such as community-driven adaptation, policy frameworks for sustainability, and the importance of climate justice and local perspectives. And the third theme will focus on the perspective of mountains, emphasizing the potential for economic growth through transitions to cleaner energy sources, the mobilization of climate finance, and the fostering of global cooperation and regional partnerships.

With an expected participation of over 200 representatives from mountainous countries, international organizations, development partners, NGOs, private sectors, and civil society groups, the dialogue aims to facilitate collective insights and conclusions. These outcomes will then be integrated into the SBSTA expert dialogue, including Nepal’s initiative on Sagarmatha Sambad.

Poudel, the chief of Climate Change Management Division at the MoFE, said   that concepts are being developed for the promotion of the event.  “We are also approaching our ambassadors and heads of missions abroad for the promotion, as well as inviting foreign ambassadors to Nepal.”

Poudel said that Nepal is focusing on including the mountain agenda from every front in the SBSTA dialogue to give more visibility for Nepal’s climate agenda. 

“In loss and damage, climate justice, climate finance and climate technology, we will incorporate mountain agenda,” he added.

Climate change expert Madhukar Upadhya said while incorporating the mountain agenda is a good initiative, it would be far better for Nepal to come up with a common regional voice. 

He suggested agriculture as an entry point for a common regional agenda. 

“Every country has faced a crisis in agriculture due to climate change and hence they will be more willing to take ownership of this agenda and make it a strong regional voice.”

Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal has underlined the need of a comprehensive strategy to address complex challenges of climate change, health and social justice.

In his address to an inaugural session of the South and Southeast Asia Regional Conference on Connecting the Dots between Climate Change, Health, and Equity here today, the Prime Minister highlighted the need for a unified and comprehensive approach to addressing these pressing issues.

"While acknowledging the significance of this monumental event, the Government of Nepal sees it as a crucial step forward in our journey towards a future characterized by justice, sustainability, and fairness," he said.

He further added that the challenges posed by climate change are immense, touching every corner of our planet, impacting our societies, health systems, and the natural environment.

"The trumpet call from climate scientists is clear and urgent: we must significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions to avoid surpassing the critical threshold of 1.5° Celsius. This is especially vital for nations like ours, with our beautiful yet vulnerable mountainous landscapes and as a Least Developed Country (LDC), where the consequences of climate change are not just abstract statistics but harsh realities,'' he said.

"The scientists have explicitly said that the emission of greenhouse gasses should be significantly reduced to maintain the temperature limit of 1.5 degree Celsius. Not only the harsh reality of climate change, but also its consequences are significant especially for least developed and mountainous countries like ours," he said.

Noting that landslides, floods, wildfires, glacial lake outburst and drought are becoming more frequent and deadlier, PM Dahal said, "Such disasters have impacted the most vulnerable populations. The poor, women, children and indigenous nationalities have been impacted of all."

The Prime Minister, referring to the latest reports, said that one-third of the global natural resources, including in the Himalayan range, have been lost and these loss and damage have not only put at risk the biodiversity but also the livelihood of billions of people living in the coastal areas.

Recalling that he has voiced in the international forums from the COP-28 held in Dubai to the 78th General Assembly of the United Nations on various challenges the least developed nations are facing due to climate change, he called on the developed economies to support the least developed and vulnerable countries by means of the urgently needed resources and technologies.

In the heart of the United Arab Emirates, the COP28 outcomes echoed a resounding message of progress and inclusivity in the fight against climate change. COP28 Outcomes Briefing event organized by Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy held in Abu Dhabi on March 6 was a pivotal event as the UAE demonstrated leadership and commitment to the principles of the Paris Agreement.

The event aimed to delve into the historic outcomes of COP28, providing a comprehensive update on global climate diplomacy, along with an exploration of the agreements and initiatives that resulted from the conference.

For the first time in COP history, crucial decisions were made on the inaugural day, underlining the UAE’s proactive approach to addressing the pressing challenges of climate change. Despite initial skepticism about the role of oil-producing nations, the UAE proved that sustainable development can coexist with responsible resource management.

At the core of COP28 was a clear recognition of the outcomes, achieved through inclusivity and dialogue. By ensuring that all voices, especially those of developing nations, were heard, the UAE fostered a sense of collective ownership and accountability.

One of the most significant achievements of COP28 was the launch of the Global Decarburization Accelerator and the Oil and Gas Charter. Leading oil companies such as ADNOC, NOC, and ARAMCO and many pledged to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, signaling a transformative shift towards renewable energy.

Furthermore, COP28 saw unprecedented collaboration with developing countries, as evidenced by the Global Cooling Pledge signed by 69 nations. The UAE’s commitment to financing climate action was underscored by contributions from oil companies, with each pledging $25m, complemented by a $100m commitment from the UAE itself.

Crucially, COP28 emphasized the importance of translating financial promises into tangible action on the ground. Developing countries were urged to grab the opportunities presented by the UAE’s initiatives, including the establishment of a Youth Champion for Climate.

COP28 also reaffirmed the significance of trade and negotiations in shaping global climate policy. Major decisions were mandated during the conference, highlighting the UAE’s pivotal role in driving consensus and collaboration among nations.

COP28 stands as a testament to the UAE’s unwavering dedication to climate action and sustainability. By championing inclusivity, innovation, and responsible resource management, the UAE has set a new standard for global climate leadership. As the world looks towards a more sustainable future, the outcomes of COP28 serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for generations to come.

World Social Forum 2024 Kathmandu

The 16th edition of the World Social Forum (WSF), under the theme “Another World is Possible,” concluded in Kathmandu last week. The WSF served as a platform to vocalize opposition and confront the longstanding issues of neoliberalism and hegemonic globalization, which have historically perpetuated poverty, inequality, and injustice. The forum provided a vital space for the exchange of ideas, sharing experiences, and discussing alternative practices that stand in contrast to hegemonic globalization, neoliberal capitalism, corporatization, market fundamentalism, and political authoritarianism. 

The event opened with a solidarity march where thousands of people from 98 countries came and joined together, carrying banners and placards with slogans stating to seek justice, peace, equality, and an urge to end any form of discrimination. Throughout the forum, participants engaged in meaningful discourse and collaborative efforts.

Climate crisis is political

Climate change is an urgent global challenge and took center stage at the World Social Forum. Hundreds of movement leaders, civil society organizations, activists, people living in poverty and marginalization across the globe came together to demand climate justice. Climate crisis is political; the greed of being wealthy, particularly by the global north has disproportionately affected the global south in more than one way. Every year climate induced disasters hit the poor, vulnerable, and underprivileged communities. Recently global leaders met at COP28 and agreed on transitioning away from fossil fuels, but there is no fair share of finance. As The ongoing discourse centers on the possibility of limiting the global temperature rise to 1.5°C, Global discourse on ‘Navigating the Path to Climate Justice’ highlighted the major three issues: climate justice, climate finance, and impacts of climate change in mountains and islands. Climate justice cannot be served to the poor, vulnerable, and underprivileged communities, and countries, especially in the global south, until and unless today’s extractive economic model is transformed into a regenerative one. In the WSF, a session shed light on these disparities, where the speakers and participants highlighted the urgent need for concrete climate actions. Countries in the global south cannot bear the disproportionate impacts of climate change while the global north continues to profit.

Global South demanding climate justice

At the WSF, climate activists from different parts of the world such as Australia, Bangladesh, Brazil, Denmark, Jordan, Kenya, India, Italy, Nepal, Uganda, and Vanuatu came together to deliberate on various climate justice issues. The activists representing diverse movements from island nations to mountain regions, underscored a crucial message: the climate crisis is inherently gender-biased, disproportionately affecting women compared to men. Emphasizing the need for a gender-sensitive approach, they stressed that women bear unique and heightened burdens in the face of climate change. Their united call at the WSF sought to elevate awareness and foster collaborative efforts to address the gender-specific impacts of the climate crisis, promoting a more inclusive and equitable response to global environmental challenges.

The impact of climate change in mountain areas is a sad reality. The hydrological cycle is changing, glaciers are melting at an alarming rate, and extreme events have become more frequent and severe, causing the mountain’s population to shrink. Similarly, mountains that provide freshwater to the land are slowly turning into barren rocks. Those communities in mountain regions face an uncertain future. Climate change affects multiple dimensions of well-being. Temperature rise, sea level rise, shifts in precipitation patterns, ocean acidification, and an increasing number of extreme weather events have an impact on how and where we produce our food. Our food system is broken, and vulnerable people are losing their faith and trust in it. And the discussion highlighted the interconnectedness between mountain regions and islands like Vanuatu. Glacial and snow melting have a linkage with sea level rise. No parts of the world remain untouched by the impacts of climate change, while the impacts and scale may vary. Undoubtedly climate change is the root cause but what’s exacerbating the crisis? It’s ‘flows of finance in the wrong direction’. A solution can indeed be found through the divestment of investment. 

Exposing private sector investments’ role in climate change

Fossil fuels and industrial agriculture are the two major sectors contributing to climate change.  A recent study report by ActionAid shows that the global private sector, especially banks, is investing in fossil fuels and industrial agriculture which the report claims is flowing in the wrong direction. Banks have provided an annual average of 20 times more financing to fossil fuels and industrial agriculture in the Global South than Global North governments have provided as climate finance to countries on the front lines of the climate crisis. The combined average annual bank financing for fossil fuels and industrial agriculture in the Global South between 2016 and 2022 was $513bn, while only $22.25bn was received as financial support for climate action in the Global South in 2020. Despite banks’ pledges to address climate change, the banks have financed $3.2trn for fossil fuels and $370bn for industrial agriculture in the Global South over the past seven years since the Paris Agreement in 2015.

Global climate financial infrastructure 

The global financial infrastructure under UNFCCC, mandates developed countries to provide $100bn of climate finance annually for climate action to developing countries by 2020.  However, reaching the pledged amount has proven challenging. During the discussion on climate finance in WSF, the speakers highlighted how the richest five billionaires have doubled their fortune since 2020, after Covid-19, whereas five billion people across the world have been poorer. Climate change escalates the economic gap between these two classes in the community. Countries in the global south are dealing with debt crises and employing widespread austerity measures worsen the challenge of addressing climate change.

Public financing has the potential to significantly contribute to climate change solutions. However, it remains a part of the problem when financial sectors fail to consider climate in their investment decisions. $400m a year, which developed countries should be delivering at times, but $10.5bn is going directly to fossil fuel subsidies. This shows how unjust and hoodwinked the global north has been to the global south. Money is there, but it is flowing in the wrong direction. Banks and private sectors are fueling the climate crisis in the global south, and the funding is directed more towards climate-harming businesses and industries.

Climate finance is channeled from developed to developing countries. But looking at the trend of today’s world’s economy, even the developing countries are economically stable. Maybe it’s time to look deeply into the issue and restructure financial flows not only from developed countries to developing countries but also from developing countries to developing countries. The roles of the biggest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, like China and India, need to be recognized. And how they can contribute to the solution depending on their capacity to address the issue. However, it remains crucial to stick with the polluters’ pay principle, looking at their historical responsibility of reparation.

Way forward 

Finally, the WSF came up with the statement that to facilitate the process to transform towards the real solutions. Governments, especially from the global north, must effectively regulate the banking and financial sectors, to stop fossil fuels and industrial agriculture expansion. The statement highlighted an urgent need to scale up support and planning for just transitions to real solutions such as renewable energy and agroecology. Furthermore, redirecting harmful fossil fuel and industrial agricultural subsidies and finance is emphasized. There is an urgent need for transitions through scaled up climate finance, tax justice and debt relief.  Banks and private sectors need to work to bring emissions down to real zero and must stop financing fossil fuel, deforestation, and other harmful industrial agriculture activities, to protect the rights of communities.

Badal is Livelihood and Natural Resources Specialist and Poudel is Trainee (Climate Justice Campaign) at ActionAid International Nepal

Manju Devi suffered in pain for two months last year as she worked on a farm near Delhi, unable to break away from duties that sometimes had her standing for hours in the waist-deep water of a rice paddy, lifting heavy loads in intense heat and spraying pesticides and insecticides. When that pain finally became too much to bear, she was rushed to a hospital.

Climate change, an existential threat to humanity, demands immediate action from all segments of society. With each passing day, the impact of global warming becomes more evident, leaving future generations vulnerable to its devastating consequences. In this critical juncture, today’s youth play a pivotal role in shaping a sustainable future. By actively engaging in climate activism and getting involved in politics, young people can spearhead positive changes for society and the environment.

The urgency of the climate crisis requires a united effort from all generations, but the youth holds a unique position in driving a transformative change. As the inheritors of the planet, they possess a vested interest in safeguarding its future. Harnessing youthful energy, passion, and determination can ignite a wave of action against climate change.

The power of youth lies in their potential to mobilize and amplify their voices, both locally and globally. Through grassroots movements and digital platforms, they can raise awareness, disseminate information, and influence public opinion on climate issues. By leveraging social media, they can reach a wide audience, sparking conversations that inspire collective action.

Young climate activists have already demonstrated their efficacy in raising awareness about climate change’s urgency. Initiatives like the Global Climate Strikes, led by youth activists like Greta Thunberg, have drawn global attention to the climate crisis and compelled leaders to address climate issues in policy-making.

While youth-led activism is vital, it must be complemented by active participation in politics. Engaging with the political system allows young people to have a direct impact on climate policies and decisions. By running for political office or actively supporting candidates with strong climate agendas, they can shape the direction of climate policy at local, national, and international levels.

Political involvement empowers young people to bring fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to climate-related challenges. It ensures that climate change remains a top priority in legislative agendas, fostering the implementation of sustainable practices and green initiatives. Young politicians can be catalysts for progressive climate policies, advocating for renewable energy, conservation measures, and carbon reduction strategies.

Furthermore, youth representation in politics is crucial for fostering intergenerational dialogue. It bridges the gap between decision-makers and future generations. Such a dialogue is essential for crafting inclusive and long-term policies that protect the environment, promoting a harmonious coexistence between nature and society.

Inclusion of youth voices in political decision-making processes is also a fundamental aspect of democratic governance. It strengthens democracy by promoting diversity of thought and ensuring that the concerns of all citizens, especially those inheriting the planet, are heard and addressed.

To encourage more youth involvement in politics, educational institutions and community organizations must prioritize civic education and engagement. Equipping young individuals with the necessary knowledge and skills for active citizenship will empower them to advocate for change effectively. Furthermore, mentorship programs and internships can offer firsthand experiences in the political arena, nurturing a generation of informed and inspired leaders.

Young people need to seize every opportunity to influence policy-making, from participating in local town hall meetings to joining youth councils and community boards. By making their voices heard in decision-making processes, they can push for policies that prioritize sustainability and climate action.

Climate change presents a formidable challenge that demands a collective response from all of society. Today’s youth are the torchbearers of this response, armed with the passion and determination to create positive changes for society. By actively engaging in climate activism and politics, young people can effectively take a stand against climate change and drive transformative action for a sustainable future. Their involvement is essential to ensure that climate concerns remain at the forefront of policy agendas, fostering a harmonious relationship between society and the environment for generations to come.

Fiction centered on climate change is an emerging genre in the literary world. Arguably, there are only a handful of novelists who have incorporated climate change issues as a major theme in their works. After discovering Amitav Ghosh’s 'The Hungry Tide', I became acquainted with his work 'Gun Island'. Gun Island is also the first English book to receive the prestigious Jnanpith Award. I was mesmerized by the way Ghosh blends folklore with serious issues of climate change and a hotter planet. His writing style made me realize that climate change, often considered a research-based, scientific, and rational subject, can also be interpreted and narrated through ancient myths and fables.

We are accustomed to hearing and reading catastrophic news caused by climate change, ranging from floods to landslides, tsunamis to hurricanes, sandy storms, and more. These events have become so common in our daily dose of social media and news browsing that we are hardly moved by the significant loss of lives, habitats, and property. We have taken them for granted. But, Ghosh’s storytelling is unique. He draws on the Bengali fable of ‘Banduki Sadagar’, or the gun merchant, and transports us to the Sundarbans, the mangrove region of Bangladesh, where he intertwines the folklore of Manasa Devi, the goddess of snakes.

Deen, the narrator and protagonist of the novel, accompanies marine biologist Piya in her research work. Deen, a rare books dealer, is captivated by Bengali legends of the gun merchant and befriends Piya, who is studying the rare Irrawaddy dolphins. They travel to distant and remote places where human settlements are sparse, such as the Sundarbans, where they find villages that have disappeared in recent years. They are startled by the rising sea levels and the villagers' struggles due to lack of fresh water. The salt levels have increased to the extent that aquatic animals exhibited abnormalities.

Through the journeys of Piya, Deen, and Tipu, Ghosh reminds us of the threats posed by climate change. Deen and Piya discuss oceanic dead zones - the vast stretches of water with very low oxygen content, too low for fish to survive. These dead zones are rapidly expanding due to the runoff from chemical fertilizers. This runoff triggers a chain reaction that depletes most of the oxygen in the water. The phenomenon of oceanic dead zones is vividly illustrated in the novel, enabling general readers to comprehend the harsh realities of the climate crisis resulting from human actions.

The novel also discusses environmental degradation caused by refineries. During a conversation with Deen, Piya discusses refineries, which may be responsible for creating 'dead zones'. She reveals that she has been fighting against refineries through an alliance of environmental groups, but she exposes the dark truth that these refineries are run by giant conglomerates that line the pockets of greedy politicians. In Nepal as well, the exploitation of the Chure region has been a topic of discussion for various reasons, but it has been forgotten as the exploiters enjoy the support of politicians.

The novel delves into serious issues of dolphin beaching. The underlying cause of beaching is explored, where man-made sounds from submarines, sonar equipment, and similar sources can be potential triggers. Piya explains that marine mammals use echolocation to navigate, and disruptions to this navigation can cause them to become disoriented and stranded. It seems that the character of Piya, portrayed as a marine biologist, is intentionally crafted as an expert who discusses and shares the crises and scenarios caused by climate change. Deen appears as a curious learner, while Piya stands out as a profound expert.

In addition to portraying geographies and habitats devastated by climate change, the novel also shares instances of migration and the pivotal role climate change plays in the migration of humans and other animals. Characters like Tipu risk their lives crossing seas and islands to reach Italy. They face obstacles from state authorities, the seas, and foreign individuals who are involved in human trafficking. The stories in 'Gun Island' exhibit elements of magical realism, presenting folklores in a way that mirrors the real world, including chance encounters.

The novel also presents irony about the indifference towards climate change in a satirical manner. An international conference is hosted by a museum to celebrate their acquisition of a special edition of a popular Shakespearean book. However, the city where the conference takes place is engulfed in a wildfire for several days. Airlines, local transportation services, and conference organizers display indifference towards the wildfire, treating it as a natural occurrence. Eventually, due to the relentless wildfire, the organizers are forced to relocate the conference venue at the last minute to the place where the narrator is staying.

The increasing number of bark beetles is also discussed in the novel. Findings suggest that these beetles are expanding their range as the mountains warm up. They invade forests by tunneling inside tree bark. The novel draws connections between bark beetles, forests, and wildfires. The stories of the suffering of Bangladeshi people due to climate crises, such as cyclones and floods, are also presented. Strong winds capable of tearing roofs off houses and rising water levels are evident in various parts of Bangladesh. These personal stories of suffering resonate with the natural calamities faced in our own world.

The novel consistently carries the theme of the climate crisis from beginning to end. Through Bengali folktales and fables, it warns us about the potential apocalyptic world. The novel is, in fact, an alarm, reminding us of our role in exploiting and devastating the planet for short-term gains and vested interests. Rather than being prescriptive about our actions, it vividly portrays and envisions the consequences of the climate crisis escalating at an unstoppable pace.