DR. BED MANI DAHAL, Professor, Department
of Environmental Science and Engineering, Kathmandu
University, Nepal.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Nepal is inherently stunning, boasting diverse climates, geological formations, and abundant natural resources. As a mountainous nation, it is home to the world’s tallest peak, Sagarmatha (Mt. Everest), alongside eight of the planet’s ten highest mountain summits, all towering above 8000 meters. Remarkably, despite occupying just 0.03% of Earth’s total land area, Nepal ranks 25th globally in terms of species richness.

The primary environmental challenges in Nepal can be categorized into two main groups: natural challenges and human-induced challenges. In terms of natural challenges, natural disasters pose significant problems. Nepal faces disasters like floods, landslides, avalanches, and lightning strikes due to its climatic conditions and monsoon rains every year. For instance, last year alone, there were more than 700 incidents related to monsoon disasters, resulting in 63 fatalities and affecting over six thousand families. Additionally, there were 983 other disaster incidents during the same period, causing 85 deaths and affecting 1572 families. Nepal is also in a seismic zone, experiencing over 50 earthquake incidents last year due to its tectonic belt.

As for human-induced environmental problems in Nepal, land degradation, water pollution, sanitation issues, and air pollution are major concerns. Let’s delve briefly into these human-associated environmental problems. The current forest coverage stands at about 45% of the total land area. However, deforestation rates were over 2% before 2000 and around 1.5% during 2000-2010. Although the deforestation rate has decreased, it remains a significant issue due to factors such as agricultural land expansion, infrastructural development, and urban settlements, contributing to deforestation and land degradation.

The significant cause of land degradation is also attributed to haphazard waste disposal practices. Nepal comprises a total of 753 municipalities, ranging from metropolises to rural areas, with 293 classified as urban municipalities and 460 as rural municipalities. Unfortunately, solid waste collection is primarily limited to urban municipalities. According to the Central Bureau of Statistics of Nepal’s 2020 report, urban municipalities collect approximately 6.1 metric tons of solid waste per day. However, only 13 municipalities utilize sanitary landfills for waste disposal. The remaining municipalities resort to either landfill dumping, burning, or disposing of waste along riverbanks. Rural municipalities face a severe lack of solid waste collection and management systems. The report also indicates that only 45% of municipalities have sewerage services, with a mere 9.4% of households connected to underground drainage systems. This data underscores the limited sanitation facilities, even in Nepal’s municipalities. Rural areas suffer from inadequate solid waste management and sanitation infrastructure.

Another major environmental concern in Nepal is air pollution, primarily stemming from dust, forest fires, and fossil fuel combustion. Dust, particularly PM2.5, poses a significant health risk to the public. The main sources of dust include road construction and maintenance, building activities, and vehicular traffic. With approximately 66,000 kilometers of road networks, of which 30% are unpaved, soil and dust from these earthen roads contribute to dust pollution in urban and road areas. Inadequate road cleaning exacerbates this issue, especially along highways and urban centers. In the year 2021/22, Nepal imported 736,276 cubic meters of petrol, 1,723,557 cubic meters of diesel, 17,340 cubic meters of kerosene, 157,128 cubic meters of aviation fuel, and 536,028 metric tons of LPG. The combustion of these fossil fuels in industrial sectors, vehicles, and households releases harmful pollutants like carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide, and particulate matter. Furthermore, solid waste burning by rural municipalities adds to air pollution. The transport of pollutants from neighboring countries, including industrial and agricultural waste burning and vehicle emissions, also significantly contributes to air pollution in Nepal. Approximately 3 million vehicles burn imported fossil fuels, further exacerbating air pollutants and particulate matter. Additionally, Nepal faces annual forest fire events during dry seasons, which also degrade air quality.

There are currently only 27 Air Quality Monitoring Stations in Nepal, primarily focusing on monitoring Particulate Matter (PM10, PM2.5), and total suspended particles. The Department of Environment, Government of Nepal, shares real-time data through its online portal and reports. However, there is limited real-time monitoring for other air pollutants such as carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide, ozone, etc. Due to the absence of comprehensive data beyond particulate matter, the air quality status in the country is often reported based on the Air Quality Index (AQI), with a specific focus on PM2.5. For instance, in April 2024, Kathmandu, the capital city, recorded PM2.5 levels ranging from 150-175 µg/m³. On May 4, 2024, the 24-hour average spiked to 176 µg/m³, indicating an 'unhealthy’ air quality level based on AQI. However, this approach can lead to a misrepresentation of the overall air quality situation. It’s crucial to note that the AQI is calculated based solely on PM2.5 levels, neglecting other important parameters in Nepal.

This year (January-April, 2024) has already witnessed over 1653 incidents of fire outbreaks and forest fires, resulting in significant losses of forested areas, wildlife habitats, and human lives. On a single day (March 16, 2024), as many as 850 forest fire incidents were recorded. As of May 2, 2024, data indicates that thirty-nine out of seventy-seven districts in Nepal are grappling with forest fires. In 2023, Nepal ranked 8th out of 134 countries in terms of air quality index ranking. However, due to a combination of factors including fossil fuel combustion, vehicular emissions, industrial pollutants, transboundary pollution, and forest fires, the air quality has been steadily deteriorating. Presently, the entire country and major cities are shrouded in thick haze, known as 'smog’. This haze has led to visibility issues, causing delays or cancellations of air flights. The government recently issued a public alert regarding the current air quality and its potential health implications. In absence of continuous or specific monitoring of emissions such as unburnt hydrocarbons, nitrogen, sulfur, and carbon oxides, the haze developing during dry seasons has not been officially declared as 'smog’ but it exhibits characteristics of smog -brownish color; density that advances with sunlight; eye, nose, and throat irritation; low visibility -thus, resembling smog-like properties.

Nepal boasts abundant freshwater resources, with a total availability of 224 cubic kilometers per year. However, over 50% of the population lacks access to tap water distribution systems. This shortage of water supply, coupled with inadequate sanitation facilities, significantly contributes to water pollution. The common practice of disposing household sewage and industrial effluents directly into nearby water bodies such as rivers, lakes, and ponds exacerbates this issue. In the capital city of Kathmandu, there exists a wastewater treatment system, but it falls short of adequately addressing the city’s wastewater production. Consequently, many urban rivers in Nepal effectively function as open sewers. While some industries treat their effluents for specific parameters, a majority of them discharge effluents without meeting national standards. Furthermore, improper solid waste disposal practices prevail in many municipalities, with waste often being discarded into rivers or along their banks. The resulting wastewater contains a range of pollutants, including organic matter (human and animal waste), pathogenic organisms, trace metals, plastics, leachate from waste, and cleaning solvents.

 

Actions taken by the Government of Nepal to protect the environment.

While the Nepal government emphasizes environmental concerns as a priority sector, its practical focus remains centered on food security, healthcare, education, and economic and infrastructural development. Since 1995, the government has initiated the formulation of specific policies, acts, laws, and regulations aimed at environmental protection. The Department of Environment, operating under the Ministry of Forests and Environment, oversees these environmental protection efforts. However, challenges such as limited human resources, constrained budget allocations, and the shifting priorities of political administrations impede the effective implementation of environmental rules and regulations. Moreover, the absence of baseline environmental data, regular monitoring of environmental parameters, and dedicated research and development initiatives further complicates the enforcement of environmental standards.

Nepal’s cooperation with other countries in the field of environmental protection.

Nepal has established mutual partnerships with numerous countries across economic, social, and environmental development sectors. As a signatory to numerous conventions, treaties, and agreements related to environmental protection, Nepal benefits from collaborative efforts and support from partner nations. Various development organizations from Europe, America, Asia, and Australia are actively engaged in these initiatives. For instance, Germany has contributed to introduce solid waste management systems in Kathmandu through GTZ, the US has assisted in the installation of air quality monitoring systems, Italy has played a role in establishing the EVK2 research center at an altitude of 5050 meters (at the base of Mt. Everest), and Australia has been instrumental in promoting community forestry programs. Many organizations collaborate on research, provide research funding, conduct awareness campaigns, and offer environmental education programs. Additionally, UN agencies, international and national NGOs, as well as private sectors, contribute significantly to various environmental sectors.

The role of the University of Kathmandu in educating staff in the field of environmental protection.

Kathmandu University, as an esteemed academic institution, has taken the lead in developing and launching academic programs, both at the undergraduate and graduate levels, focused on environmental science and engineering. It offers comprehensive education, training, and consultancy services to the nation. The university actively conducts environmental research and publishes scientific papers in this field. Moreover, Kathmandu University has set up demonstration units for waste management systems, ecological wastewater treatment systems, and research laboratories focusing on renewable energies. These facilities play a crucial role in educating students and faculty members interested in environmental protection. The university’s graduates are increasingly assuming roles and responsibilities in government offices related to environmental conservation, a role that was previously undertaken by professionals from other disciplines. Additionally, university professors contribute their expertise to various environmental documents and initiatives within the country.

Possibilities of cooperation between Nepal and Poland in the field of environmental protection.

The European Union is extending support to Nepal in multiple sectors through various programs. Given that Poland is an EU member, it has the potential to allocate funds specifically to Nepal for environmental protection initiatives. Additionally, Poland’s assistance in securing climate funds or exploring carbon trading opportunities with Nepal could further enhance cooperation. There are opportunities for institutional collaboration as well. Academic and research institutions from both countries can engage in joint environmental studies, collaborative research projects, and facilitate student and faculty exchanges. Considering the diverse environmental conditions and pollution levels in Nepal, researchers from Poland can delve into new avenues of research within Nepal. Furthermore, technologies developed in Poland can be transferred to Nepal to help minimize pollutants and enhance environmental sustainability.

Smog and air pollution:

  • What are the main causes of smog in Nepal?

As mentioned earlier, the combined impact of activities such as fossil fuel combustion, vehicular traffic, industrial emissions, pollutants originating from other countries (like the Asian brown cloud), and forest fires constitute the primary sources of unburnt hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides, sulphur oxides, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, ozone, and particulate matter in Nepal. These pollutants contribute to the formation of smog. Additionally, the practice of openly burning agricultural residues or waste, along with urban solid waste burning, further exacerbates this process.
What are the health effects of smog on the inhabitants of Nepal?
The health effects on residents have not been directly considered due to smog in Nepal until now. However, as deteriorating air quality is synonymous with air pollution, there is ample evidence linking air pollution to the health conditions of people. The increasing number of patients in hospitals, along with higher Air Quality Index (AQI) values, demonstrates the correlation between air pollution and health impacts. A study conducted by the Health Research Council and Ministry of Health in 2020 highlighted a rise in cases of pulmonary and cardiovascular diseases, chronic respiratory illnesses, and instances of cancer across the country. In 2019 alone, there were over 42 thousand deaths attributed to respiratory-related diseases, with approximately 6 thousand occurring in Kathmandu. Additionally, there have been reports indicating a 4.1% reduction in the average life expectancy of Nepalese individuals due to air pollution.

  • What actions are being taken by the Government of Nepal to combat smog?

The Nepal government emphasizes the reduction of pollution in general but has taken minimal specific actions to address air pollution or smog. However, initiatives are being implemented through policies and indirect measures. For instance, the government is attempting to phase out public vehicles older than 20 years due to their higher emissions, imposing fines for open fires or waste burning, promoting cleaner technology in brick kilns, mandating pollution checks for vehicles, encouraging the use of electric vehicles, and advocating for electricity usage over fossil fuels. The government is incentivizing the import of electric vehicles through taxation measures, resulting in a significant increase in their import share, reaching 50-60% this year. Additionally, plans are underway to implement Euro 4 vehicle standards, establish five vehicle fitness centers, and set up electric vehicle charging stations nationwide to mitigate air pollution.

  • What technologies can help reduce air pollution in Nepal?

The technologies associated with polluters have the potential to significantly reduce air pollution if properly implemented. Industries, for instance, should have clean fuel, air filters or scrubbers in their systems that must be installed and operated effectively. It’s crucial for all industries to comply with the emission standards set by the government. In cases where these standards are not met, the government should take prompt and decisive action. Nepal lacks a quality testing laboratory for fossil fuels like petrol and diesel, which are major contributors to air pollution. Since particulate matter is a significant air pollutant in Nepal, simple steps such as managing forest fires, keeping roads clean, paving roads with blacktop, maintaining engines properly, disposing of waste responsibly, planning roads and infrastructure with safety measures, transitioning to cleaner technologies (such as shifting from fossil fuels to electricity or renewable energy sources), promoting greenery especially in urban areas, and improving public or mass transportation systems can all contribute to reducing air pollution levels. Timely completion of road and construction projects could also help mitigate air pollution.

  • What are examples of social initiatives for clean air in Nepal?

Some organizations and individuals are launching various initiatives such as environmental campaigns, awareness events, eco-fairs, public transport quality surveys, and promoting cycling or walking. There’s a growing trend in both public and private sectors towards using electric vehicles. Carrier trucks for goods like cement, sand, soil, gravel, waste, and wood dust are now need to equip to minimize dispersal during transport. In the past, people were reluctant to report polluters, but now there are reports and even legal cases filed against individuals or organizations involved in pollution.

Plastic:

  • What are the main sources of plastic pollution in Nepal?

The primary sources of plastic pollution are packaging materials along with plastic bags, water bottles, and disposable glass or plates. It is estimated that Nepal generates 2.7 tons of plastic waste daily. Plastics make up 12% of household waste and more than 20% of institutional waste. Plastic waste is ubiquitous, found in open spaces, water bodies, and landfill sites. Microplastics, a component of plastics with the size of 5mm to 1µm, have been discovered in mountain snow, water, soil, and even people’s food, highlighting the extensive pollution caused by plastics in Nepal. Nepal imported 380 thousand tons of plastic in the year 2021/22 and produced about 165 thousand tons domestically. Whether imported or locally produced, plastic materials and goods contribute significantly to pollution due to inadequate management practices.
What are the effects of plastic pollution on the natural environment of Nepal?
The primary concern is the visual or scenic impact for touristic countries like Nepal. Plastics can be found everywhere, from homes to offices, roads to rivers, gardens to parks, hills to mountains, plains to hills, and even in places like temples and graveyards. Empty plastic water bottles often clog drainages along roads and highways. A significant portion of the solid waste generated consists of various types of plastics. When waste is disposed of in open land or rivers, plastics persist for a long time (other materials degrade over time). Burning solid waste is a common method used to reduce waste, but it leads to the emission of toxic gases that pose health hazards.

  • What actions are being taken by the Government of Nepal to combat plastic pollution?

The government implemented a ban on plastic materials thinner than 40 microns starting in 2021. Additionally, various organizations have issued notices prohibiting the use of plastics on their premises. Apart from banning plastic bags, the government has not implemented any specific measures. However, it promotes the reduction of plastic usage by encouraging individuals to bring their own bags and to recycle plastics. Since plastics are often disposed of together with other waste due to a lack of strict waste segregation rules, this practice hampers the recycling process. Although plastics can be recycled, only one-third of the total plastic waste generated is actually recycled. Most plastic recycling is carried out by informal sectors, typically involving the conversion of plastic waste into pellets, which are then used to manufacture plastic goods.

  • What are examples of social initiatives to reduce plastic in Nepal?

Social initiatives are primarily focused on raising awareness through campaigns such as „Carry my own bag or Bring your own bag”, encouraging the separation of higher-grade plastics from solid waste, and selling them to recycling vendors. Some organizations have introduced cloth bags for sale in departmental stores as an alternative to distributing plastic bags to customers. Furthermore, campaigns to collect plastics from public spaces and water bodies are being organized, although they have not made significant strides in mitigating plastic pollution.

  • What are the alternatives to plastic that can be used in Nepal?

Plastic materials are capable of being reused and recycled multiple times. The trend of single-use items must transition to products designed for repeated use. Plastics, especially as packaging materials, can be minimized by utilizing textiles or plant-based alternatives. Traditionally, many Nepalese people used leaf plates during festivals and on special occasions, and cherished items like metal cups, plates, water jars, and storage vessels. Bringing attention to these traditional practices could reduce the reliance on one-time use plastics such as water bottles, cups, plates, and utensils. In the past, wooden vessels were also used for storing milk, curd, and ghee instead of plastics. While these old practices may not be suitable for every situation, effective and efficient waste management practices should be implemented across the board.

ESG:

  • What are the main ESG challenges in Nepal?

As highlighted in the preceding text („Main Environmental Challenges of Nepal”), the primary ESG challenges encompass deforestation and land degradation, driven by factors such as agricultural expansion, infrastructure development, illegal logging, and the demand for fuel wood. Additionally, water pollution is a significant concern, particularly in urban areas, along with inadequate sanitation facilities in both urban and rural settings. The management of solid waste presents challenges due to unscientific practices in its collection, transfer, and disposal. Climate change impacts, including erratic weather patterns, glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs), and the heightened magnitude of natural disasters, further exacerbate environmental challenges. On the social front, issues such as poverty, gender disparities, migration (both internal and international), and social inclusion are prominent ESG challenges. Governance-related challenges include corruption and a lack of transparency, which contribute to diminishing community engagement and participation. Crafting effective policies is a primary challenge, followed by the considerable hurdle of implementing these policies within the governmental sector.

  • What are examples of companies in Nepal that are implementing ESG practices?

Some large or multinational companies across various sectors have begun implementing ESG practices. For instance, in the telecom sector, companies like Nepal Telecom and NCell have initiated measures such as energy-efficient networks, promoting digital literacy, minimizing environmental impacts, and strengthening corporate governance. In the banking sector, institutions like Himalayan Bank, Standard Chartered Bank, and Sanima Bank are prioritizing responsible lending practices, financial inclusion programs, and ethical banking practices. Industrial giants such as CG Corp. and Dabur Nepal are directing their efforts towards environmental conservation, community development programs, effective waste management practices, and social impact initiatives. Moreover, nearly all hydropower companies are integrating ESG practices into their operations, including conducting environmental impact assessments, engaging with local communities, and implementing sustainable resource management systems during project development and operation.

  • What are the benefits of implementing ESG practices for Nepalese companies?

While ESG practices are relatively new and only a handful of companies in Nepal are adopting them, they offer numerous benefits. One of the key advantages is the positive recognition and goodwill that a company receives from society. Additionally, ESG practices foster trust and loyalty among stakeholders. They also help minimize the risks associated with supply chain disruptions. Furthermore, utilizing renewable energy sources can lead to reduced energy expenses and emissions, as opposed to burning fossil fuels. Companies that implement ESG practices are also more likely to attract investors and lenders interested in sustainable investment initiatives. Overall, these qualities contribute significantly to the share value, growth and long-term sustainability of the company.

  • How can the Government of Nepal support the implementation of ESG practices?

The government can support ESG practices by crafting and enforcing policies in partnership with various organizations. A healthy environment benefits everyone, so governmental and non-governmental entities, industries, private sectors, academic institutions, and development partners should integrate ESG principles into their operations (with the government possibly mandating this). Capacity-building training and education can be provided by the government to members of implementing organizations. Furthermore, the government can allocate special funds to support green technologies, environmental studies, and conservation efforts. Providing special recognition or awards could also incentivize the adoption and implementation of ESG practices.

Renewable Energy Sources (RES):

  • What is the potential of RES in Nepal?

Nepal possesses significant potential for renewable energy sources (RES) as it lacks non-RES resources such as fossil fuels. Biomass, derived from agricultural products (covering 21% of the total area) or forest resources (constituting 45% of the total area), stands out as one of the primary RES in Nepal. Additionally, assessment reports indicate that solar energy is abundant in Nepal, with an annual average of 4.7 kWh/m2/day. A recent research article has estimated the potential for 47,628 MW of solar energy and 1,686 MW of wind energy. Hydropower is another valuable resource, with an economically viable potential of 42 gigawatts. While there is potential for geothermal energy in certain areas, further studies are needed to fully assess its viability.

  • What are the challenges in RES development in Nepal?

The development of RES in Nepal faces several challenges across different dimensions. Infrastructure poses a significant hurdle due to the mountainous terrain, which complicates project execution, the establishment of transmission lines, and grid connectivity. Financial constraints also play a role, as internal funding is limited by the country’s economic situation. Technical challenges arise from the need to import technology for RES, coupled with a lack of local technical expertise for installation, operation, and maintenance. Policy frameworks present another obstacle, with a lack of clear and specific policies tailored to RES development in Nepal. Socio-environmental concerns add complexity, as communities are increasingly aware of the social and environmental impacts of such projects. Moreover, there is a shortage of detailed studies and reliable data essential for effectively executing RES initiatives in Nepal.

  • What actions are being taken by the Government of Nepal to develop RES?

The Nepal government has taken steps to attract investments from both national and international partners in the RES. It promotes public-private partnerships (PPPs) to facilitate investment, technology transfer, and project implementation in this sector. Notably, there are new policy formulations, particularly in the hydropower sector, which now incorporates private sector involvement in hydropower development. Moreover, the government has upgraded transmission lines and national grids, showcasing its commitment to modernizing the energy infrastructure. Additionally, it has signed agreements with India and Bangladesh for electricity trading, further enhancing regional cooperation in the energy sector. More recently, the government has also granted permission to explore the potential of hydrogen fuel. Kathmandu University boasts a hydrogen fuel research lab, supported financially by the government, demonstrating its efforts to delve into innovative and sustainable energy solutions.

  • What are examples of RES projects in Nepal?

Over 300,000 biogas plants have been installed nationwide for household cooking purposes. Most of the RES projects are in hydropower sector (from pico hydropower to mega hydropower projects). Examples of some ongoing hydropower projects are: Tila -1 (440 MW), Tila-2 (420 MW), Upper tamakoshi (456 MW), Arun-III (900 MW). Till now 13 solar projects with total capacity of 68.38 MW has been installed (e.g., Mithila Solar PV Power Project of 10 MW, Solar PV Project Banke of 10 MW, Solar PV Project Raniyapur of 10 MW). Khangri Wind Energy Project with a capacity of 25.2 MW.