Pokhara, July 3 - A one-day program titled “Climate Dialogue with Journalists” was successfully conducted in Pokhara, bringing together climate experts, government representatives, journalists, and campaigners to engage in meaningful discussions on climate challenges and policy responses. The event aimed to strengthen public discourse and journalistic engagement in Nepal’s climate journey, with a special focus on the Gandaki Province.
Opening Ceremony Highlights Government's Role in Climate Action
The program began with an inaugural ceremony featuring a keynote speech by Mr. Puneshwor Subedi, representative of the Ministry of Forest and Environment, Gandaki Province, who emphasized the critical role of provincial governments in advancing climate action. He underscored the need for integrated policy implementation, capacity building at the local level, and the importance of multi-stakeholder collaboration to tackle climate risks specific to Gandaki’s geography and socio-economic context.
Technical Session: Interlinking Climate with Economy, Food, and Biodiversity
The technical session included three informative presentations, each offering a unique lens on the climate crisis:
1. “Climate Crisis and Economic Growth: Challenges and Opportunities for Nepal” — Arjun Dhakal explored the tension between climate mitigation goals and economic development, stressing the importance of green investment and low-carbon economic pathways.
2. “Climate Change and Right to Food in Nepal” — Dr. Bhesh Raj Adhikari highlighted how erratic weather patterns and changing agro-ecological conditions are threatening food security and the fundamental right to food, especially among marginalized rural communities.
3. “Impact of Climate Change on Biodiversity Conservation” — Ajaya Karki presented compelling evidence on how rising temperatures and habitat shifts are putting Nepal’s rich biodiversity, including endangered species and protected areas, at growing risk.
Dialogue Session Sparks Interactive Exchange on Local Climate Priorities
A dynamic dialogue session moderated by journalist Dipak Pariyar provided a platform for panelists to reflect on pressing climate issues from policy, conservation, and activist perspectives. Panelists included:
Dr. Rabin Kadariya, Annapurna Conservation Area, who spoke on community-based adaptation and the ecological pressures facing protected landscapes.
Mr. Puneshwor Subedi, Gandaki Ministry of Forest and Environment, who reiterated provincial efforts in mainstreaming climate resilience into planning.
D. B. Nepali, Climate Campaigner, who called for stronger grassroots mobilization and youth involvement in climate policy advocacy.
Participants engaged actively with the panel, raising concerns on inconsistent enforcement of environmental regulations, the need for climate education in journalism, and the importance of aligning local policies with global climate goals.
