Nepal's Climate Crisis: Can Community Action Save the Himalayas?!

Nepal's Himalayas are breathtaking, but like many regions around the globe, they're facing increasing challenges from Climate change. Luckily, some dedicated individuals are stepping up to empower communities with the knowledge they need to adapt and protect their environment. One such person is Anil Adhikari, a conservationist who believes that education, especially for young people, is key.

Nepal's Climate Crisis: Can Community Action Save ...

Adhikari, founder of Teka Samuha Nepal and a former editor of *The Snow Leopard Magazine*, has dedicated his career to conservation. He's also the driving force behind the Community-Based Snow Leopard Conservation Program (CBSLCP) in the Himalayas. Recently, he was honored with the 2024 World Wildlife Fund (WWF) Nepal Conservation Award, highlighting his significant contributions. But perhaps even more important than the accolades is his work crafting conservation education books that link climate resilience to community action.

In a recent interview with Sangita Swechcha, Adhikari discussed how his conservation education efforts contribute to real-world climate solutions at the community level. Nepal, sadly, is becoming increasingly vulnerable to the shifting climate, and finding local answers is crucial. His approach is surprisingly simple: empower the kids, and they'll influence their families.

Adhikari explained that his team collaborates with schools and local partners to promote conservation education among students in both the mountainous regions and the lowlands. "Through extracurricular activities," he said, "we teach the causes and impacts of Climate change, preparedness, and practical adaptation measures." The secret sauce? His conservation education books. He hopes these will act as a catalyst, sparking conversations within families and ultimately fostering community-wide climate solutions. He admits that ensuring this knowledge transfer remains a challenge, but it's a challenge worth tackling.

Why focus on children? "Engaging young people early is important because they are part of the community today and the future caretakers of biodiversity," Adhikari emphasized. "When they understand the link between nature, climate, and their daily lives, they begin to value coexistence and responsible behavior." It's a long-term investment, but one that promises significant returns.

The educational approach is designed to be engaging and memorable. Adhikari's books utilize storytelling, critical thinking exercises, group work, and even games to teach climate awareness and resilience. It's not just about lectures; it's about hands-on learning. For example, students learn to practice rainwater harvesting during the monsoon season, ensuring a water supply for drier periods. They also participate in planting activities through school clubs, contributing directly to local ecosystems. It's a holistic approach that combines education with practical action, fostering a new generation of environmentally conscious citizens. And that, in my view, is exactly what the world needs.

*This post is part of Global Voices’ May 2026 Spotlight series, “Global crisis, local solutions,” which explores stories of resistance, successful climate action, and insights into how communities in the Global South are fighting back against the crisis.*