Nepal, a Himalayan landlocked country known for its magnificent landscapes and rich biodiversity, is facing danger from climate change, according to a new National Statistics Office survey, underscoring its vulnerability and the urgent need for immediate action.
Take this little quiz to find out how much you know about climate change and its effects on Nepal!
➤ What is the primary source of income for over half of Nepal’s population?
A) Tourism
B) Agriculture
C) Manufacturing
D) Information Technology
Answer: B) Agriculture
This response shows an important point. Agriculture is the foundation of Nepal’s economy, yet it is strongly dependent on rainfall, making it very vulnerable to climate change.
The National Climate Change Survey 2022 reveals a disturbing trend.
- Alarming Rise in Crop Diseases and Pests: Over the last 25 years, families in Nepal have reported an increase in new crop diseases (about 50%) and pests (over 53%). This problem is especially significant in rural regions (more than 55%) and higher altitudes (almost 69%).
➤ Can you guess the effects of these agricultural threats?
A) Increased food production
B) Lower crop yields and economic losses for farmers
Answer: B) Lower crop yields and economic losses for farmers
These issues not only jeopardize food security but also discourage farmers, undermining Agenda 2030’s poverty reduction targets.
Water Scarcity Looms Large: A Nationwide Challenge
The report also shows a nationwide decrease in water availability.
- Drying Streams and Rivers: Nearly 80% of households reported a decline in streams and rivulets, indicating a concerning nationwide water shortage.
- Insufficient Rainfall and Increased Drought: These factors are highlighted as the key causes of the drying water sources.
Water shortages not only challenge populations’ fundamental needs, but they also have an influence on hydropower generation, which Nepal is actively pursuing as a renewable energy source.
Biodiversity Loss: A Silent Threat
Climate change poses a danger to Nepal’s unique biodiversity, which includes Himalayan ecosystems, tropical forests, and wetlands.
- Shifts in Flowering and Fruiting Patterns: Around 10% of households reported changes in these patterns, impacting production and taste of plants.
Climate change may cause habitat loss, affect animal migration patterns, and introduce invasive species, all of which pose significant challenges to biodiversity conservation.
Limited Awareness and Uneven Access to Information
The survey finds a significant gap in climate change awareness, particularly in rural areas, with more than 70% unaware in mountainous regions. Even individuals who are aware have limited awareness of the effects of climate change, and access to early warning information is uneven, with urban areas having better outcomes.
What can be done? Take action now!
The National Climate Change Survey 2022 is a wake-up call for Nepal. Here are several ways you may contribute to the solution:
- Spread awareness: Share this blog and trustworthy information regarding climate change’s impact on Nepal with your family, friends, and community members.
- Support sustainable practices: Advocate for government policies that promote rainwater harvesting, water conservation techniques, and the development of drought-resistant crops.
- Reduce your own carbon footprint: Making small changes in your daily routine, such as using energy-efficient appliances and utilizing public transport, can significantly improve your environmental impact.
Nepal can strengthen its resilience to climate change by acknowledging its significance and adopting urgent action to protect its natural resources, agricultural output, and biodiversity.
Let us work together to conserve Nepal’s stunning landscapes and secure a long-term future for generations.
Also Read: https://whatthenepal.com/2024/05/17/world-peace-flame-lumbini-to-light-inauguration-of-everest-marathon/
