Nepal, often called the “Roof of the World,” is a land where nature’s magnificence and human resilience meet. Nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, Nepal is home to eight of the world’s 14 highest peaks, including the iconic Mount Everest (8,848.86m), Kanchenjunga (8,586m), Lhotse (8,516m), and Annapurna (8,091m).
These majestic mountains have long been symbols of adventure, resilience, and beauty. For centuries, they have inspired climbers, adventurers, and spiritual seekers from all over the world. Yet, these towering giants now face an unprecedented challenge: climate change, which threatens both their beauty and the lives of millions who depend on them.
Risk of GLOFs
The impact of global warming on the Himalayas is already clear. Glaciers that once blanketed the mountains in thick ice are now retreating at an alarming rate. The Khumbu Glacier near Mount Everest, one of the most iconic glaciers in the world, has lost a significant portion of its mass.
Glacial lakes, such as Tsho Rolpa in the Rolwaling Valley, have grown in size, increasing the risk of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs). These floods, if they occur, can devastate downstream communities, destroy infrastructure, and cause widespread loss of life.
This is not just a future concern but a present-day reality, as Nepal has already experienced destructive floods linked to GLOFs in the Annapurna Sanctuary and other areas.
This retreating ice and shifting weather patterns are also affecting Nepal’s rivers, which supply water to millions in South Asia. These rivers are fed by the glaciers, and as the glaciers shrink, the flow of water has become more unpredictable.
The irregularity in water flow has severe consequences for agriculture, drinking water supply, and hydropower generation—industries that many Nepalis rely on for their livelihoods. For the broader region, the Himalayas are crucial to sustaining life, making the impact of climate change even more widespread and urgent.
The effects of climate change on Nepal’s mountains also extend to the tourism sector, which is a critical part of the national economy. Nepal has long been a premier destination for trekkers, mountaineers, and nature lovers, drawn by the stunning views of snow-capped peaks and the challenge of climbing some of the world’s tallest mountains. However, these iconic mountains are slowly losing their snow and ice.
In recent years, trekkers have reported less consistent snowfall and warmer temperatures in high-altitude regions. As the landscape changes, the appeal of trekking and mountaineering in Nepal, risks diminishing.
Challenges ahead
Furthermore, Nepal’s tourism industry faces additional challenges due to over-tourism and environmental degradation. Mount Everest, once known for its pristine beauty, has become a symbol of the environmental toll of mass tourism. It is now often referred to as the “world’s highest garbage dump,” with waste left behind by climbers and trekkers piling up over the decades.
In addition, the demand for firewood in trekking areas has led to widespread deforestation. The loss of forests not only contributes to carbon emissions but also weakens the natural buffers that help mitigate the effects of climate change.
Despite these dire challenges, Nepal has not been idle. The country has taken significant steps to combat the effects of climate change and protect its mountains. As the chair of the Climate Vulnerable Forum in 2021, Nepal led efforts to call for a global commitment to limiting warming to 1.5°C, which would help protect vulnerable ecosystems like the Himalayas.
Domestically, Nepal has launched initiatives like the Everest Cleanup Campaign, which has successfully removed tons of waste from the mountain, and has introduced policies requiring climbers to bring their waste back with them. Nepal has also made strides in protecting its forests by promoting renewable energy, such as solar and hydropower, which reduce the country’s reliance on firewood.
In addition, early warning systems for GLOFs and monitoring of glacial lakes are being put in place to minimize the damage from potential flooding. The government is also working on sustainable water management projects and increasing disaster preparedness in vulnerable communities. These steps are important, but they are not enough.
More action is needed to protect Nepal’s mountains, which are more than just a national treasure—they are a global asset, crucial to the survival of millions of people across South Asia.
Comprehensive actions to protect natural heritage
The government of Nepal must take stronger, more comprehensive actions to protect its natural heritage. One of the most important steps is to enforce stricter regulations on tourism. Limiting the number of trekkers and climbers allowed on popular peaks like Everest each year will help preserve the environment and ensure that tourism remains sustainable.
Nepal should also work to encourage eco-friendly trekking practices, such as using renewable energy in trekking lodges, reducing waste, and promoting low-impact trekking routes that will help alleviate the pressure on well-known areas like the Annapurna Circuit.
More investment is needed in local, community-based conservation programs that empower locals to take ownership of their environment. These programs can help protect natural resources while providing sustainable income opportunities for communities.
With deforestation and land degradation being significant problems, there should be greater emphasis on afforestation and reforestation initiatives. Planting trees not only helps to restore habitats but also contributes to carbon sequestration, playing a crucial role in mitigating the effects of climate change.
On the regional level, Nepal must work closely with neighboring countries like India, Bhutan, and China to address the shared challenges of climate change. The Himalayas are the water source for millions across the region, and their protection must be a collective effort. Collaborative strategies for transboundary water management, joint conservation efforts, and climate adaptation strategies are essential for the long-term health of the Himalayas and the people who depend on them.
Finally, the global community must play a key role in helping Nepal protect its mountains. Nepal contributes very little to global carbon emissions, yet it faces some of the most severe consequences of climate change. Developed nations must fulfill their promises to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and provide financial and technical support to countries like Nepal, which bear the brunt of the climate crisis. Climate financing should be directed towards helping Nepal adapt to climate change, strengthen disaster resilience, and protect its natural resources.
Nepal’s mountains are not just geographical features; they are vital lifelines, sacred symbols, and sources of inspiration for people around the world. Protecting the Himalayas is not only about preserving their beauty—it’s about ensuring the survival of ecosystems, communities, and future generations.
Nepal has shown leadership in the fight against climate change, but the challenges it faces require collective action from governments, organisations, and individuals around the world. By promoting sustainable tourism, investing in local conservation, and fostering regional and global cooperation, we can help ensure that the Himalayas remain a beacon of natural wonder and a symbol of human perseverance. The time to act is now, and together, we can protect these awe-inspiring mountains for future generations.
