By Pradip Rayamajhi, Senior Environment Journalist
Introduction
Nepal, nestled in the Himalayas, is blessed with unparalleled natural beauty and biodiversity.
However, the country faces growing environmental challenges, exacerbated by the impacts of
climate change. From melting glaciers to erratic weather patterns, Nepal’s fragile ecosystems and
dependent communities are increasingly vulnerable. This article explores the environmental
issues confronting Nepal and examines recent government data and strategies aimed at
addressing climate change.
Climate Change: A Real Threat to Nepal
Nepal is one of the most vulnerable countries to climate change, despite contributing only
0.027% of global greenhouse gas emissions. According to the Ministry of Forests and
Environment (MOFE), temperatures in Nepal have been increasing at a rate of 0.06°C per year,
and projections suggest a further rise by 1.5-2.5°C by 2050. This warming has a devastating
effect on Himalayan glaciers, which feed rivers essential to millions of people across South Asia.
The government’s National Climate Change Policy 2019 highlights that over 30% of Nepal’s
population is directly affected by climate-induced disasters. These include floods, landslides,
droughts, and glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs). Recent data reveals that since 2015, more
than 5,000 people have lost their lives to climate-induced disasters, with economic losses
running into billions.
Melting Glaciers and Water Insecurity
Nepal’s glaciers are melting at an alarming rate. A report by the International Centre for
Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) estimates that the country’s glaciers have shrunk
by 24% since 1977. The meltwater feeds into major rivers like the Ganga, Brahmaputra, and
Mekong, providing water to millions. However, as these glaciers retreat, water insecurity looms
for both Nepal and the broader South Asian region.
The government, in its latest Water Resource Strategy, is focusing on enhancing watershed
management, building more reservoirs, and improving irrigation practices to combat the looming
water crisis. However, experts warn that without substantial international cooperation and
adaptation measures, water scarcity will become a major geopolitical issue.
Biodiversity Under Threat
Nepal is home to 3.2% of the world’s known flora and 1.1% of its fauna. The government’s
recent National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (2014-2020) highlights the rich
biodiversity that supports livelihoods through agriculture, tourism, and forestry. However,
habitat loss, poaching, deforestation, and climate change are threatening many species.
The Nepal Red List indicates that 55 species of mammals, 226 species of birds, and 24 species of
reptiles are endangered. The government has been actively involved in conservation efforts, with
national parks like Chitwan and Sagarmatha playing crucial roles. However, there is still a long
way to go in reversing the declining trends in biodiversity.
Air Quality: A Growing Health Concern
Air pollution in Nepal, especially in urban areas like Kathmandu, has become a pressing public
health issue. The Air Quality Index (AQI) regularly exceeds safe limits, with PM2.5 and PM10
levels contributing to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Data from the Ministry of Health
and Population (MoHP) suggests that air pollution leads to 35,000 premature deaths annually in
Nepal.
The government is focusing on promoting electric vehicles (EVs), transitioning to cleaner fuels,
and controlling emissions from brick kilns and other industries. Despite these efforts, the annual
cost of air pollution, according to the World Bank’s 2023 Report, stands at approximately 4.5%
of Nepal’s GDP.
Government Initiatives and Climate Finance
Nepal’s commitment to combating climate change is reflected in its updated Nationally
Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement. The government aims to achieve
net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. Some key targets include increasing forest cover by 45%,
promoting 15% of energy from renewable sources by 2030, and enhancing the resilience of 10
million people.
However, financing these initiatives remains a significant challenge. Nepal needs an estimated
USD 46 billion by 2050 for climate adaptation and mitigation efforts, according to the Nepal
Climate Change Financing Framework. The government is actively seeking international aid,
technical expertise, and partnerships with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and the
private sector to bridge this gap.
Adaptation Measures at the Local Level
At the grassroots level, community-based adaptation (CBA) programs are gaining traction. These
initiatives focus on empowering local communities to take ownership of adaptation strategies.
The Local Adaptation Plans of Action (LAPA) framework has been implemented in over 100
vulnerable districts, helping communities to manage water resources, adopt climate-resilient
farming practices, and develop early warning systems for disasters.
Women, who are often the most vulnerable to climate impacts, have been placed at the center of
many adaptation programs. Government data shows that involving women in decision-making
processes has improved the effectiveness of local climate adaptation strategies.
Conclusion: Urgency for Action
The data paints a clear picture: Nepal’s environment and its people are facing a multitude of
challenges due to climate change. While the government is making strides in policy-making and
international advocacy, the urgency for large-scale, impactful action cannot be overstated.
The path to a sustainable future will require more robust financing, deeper international
cooperation, and the collective efforts of communities, government bodies, and global partners.
As the world’s attention increasingly turns to the Himalayas and South Asia, Nepal must
continue to champion climate action and environmental sustainability to protect its unique
ecosystems and the millions of lives that depend on them.