Those familiar with the geography of Nepal know that it is a miraculous haven. Within the area of 143,350 sq km that stretches 241 km west to east and 193 km north to the south lies countless opportunities to reconnect with nature. To the south are tropical alluvial plains at 60m above sea level. To the north is the forehead of the world- Mt. Everest at 8,848.86m. The Himalayan mountains are rugged and permanently covered with snow and ice.
Unearthing the wonders of Nepal, researchers have identified a total of 118 ecosystems in Nepal. Amongst them are 112 forest ecosystems, four cultivation ecosystems, one water body ecosystem and one glacier ecosystem. Such is the diversity of this small but humble nation. In terms of fauna, Nepal is home to 175 species of mammals, 836 bird species, 147 reptile and amphibian species, 180 species of fish, 640 species of butterflies and a staggering 6000+ species of moths.
Facts aside, Nepal truly is heaven on earth! Our natural beauty is our greatest strength. We must take great strides to balance our need for modernization to maintain this pristine beauty. It isn't just for our environment but our livelihood as well. Our economy is heavily reliant on our natural resources. Agriculture and tourism greatly rely on the presence of our natural wonders.
As we expand our cities and footprints around the nation, we must remember- we are the guests! We must think creatively and develop sustainable measures to reduce encroach and push more species into extinction. The theme of this year, World Environment Day, captures this very thought at best, 'Only One Earth'. The time is now, and every second that we fail to understand the importance of harmony with nature, we come close to disastrous encounters. From climate change to wildlife attacks, they're all interlinked.
The celebration of World Environment Day isn't just about parading and increasing awareness. The thoughts must come into action. As famously said, change begins from one, and it's up to all of us to take greener measures in our daily lives to shorten the production and consumption cycles that are deteriorating our environment.
Every year post the climbing season, we see pictures of camps just filled with waste. Yes, waste occurs, but if you analyse it in a calm setting, even you wonder, Why? You can say no to single-use plastic and make sure to not litter during your escapade in the Himalayas. During your adventure in the Himalayas, you can rent your equipment instead of buying them. It reduces the chance of them becoming baggage after your trip is over. A diverse scape always means diverse cuisine! On your next adventure, try and tingle your taste buds with native flavours.
The list of sustainable activities is plentiful. While on your journey, think of the most sustainable actions to reduce your carbon footprint.
