Kathmandu, Dec 16, 2024 – Aiming to enhance freshwater biodiversity and ecosystem services, the National Consultation on Freshwater Challenge concluded successfully at Hotel Himalaya, Kupundole, on December 16, 2024. Organized by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), in collaboration with the Department of Forests and Soil Conservation (DOFSC), the event brought together key stakeholders to address Nepal’s freshwater challenges and priorities.
The consultation explored ways to operationalize the Freshwater Challenge (FWC), a global initiative launched at the UN Water Conference in March 2023. It focuses on restoring 300,000 km of degraded rivers and 350 million hectares of wetlands by 2030, with 44 countries, including Nepal, committing to this effort.
Plenary Discussions and Key Insights
The consultation featured prominent experts and key stakeholders, who shared insights and highlighted the way forward:
1. Status of Freshwater Biodiversity in Nepal:
Prof. Dr. Subodh Sharma of Kathmandu University presented trends, risks, and challenges surrounding freshwater biodiversity in Nepal. He emphasized the urgent need to address ecological degradation and its impacts on ecosystems and communities.
2. Policy Landscape and National Targets:
Dr. Buddhi Sagar Paudel from the Forest and Watershed Division, Ministry of Forest and Environment, discussed enabling policy provisions, ongoing initiatives, and national targets aligned with the Freshwater Challenge.
3. Panel Discussion on Freshwater Challenges in the National Context:
A panel of experts, including Dr. Ram Devi Tachoma Shah, Dr. Kapil Gyawali, Mr. Raju Sapkota, Dr. Chiranjibi Bhattarai, and Dr. Ajay Dixit, explored the current challenges and opportunities for freshwater conservation in Nepal.
4. Next Steps and Key Messages:
Narendra Babu Pradhan, IUCN Nepal Country Director, and Dr. Ghanashyam Gurung, WWF Nepal Country Director, provided key messages, emphasizing the need for targeted action, multi-stakeholder collaboration, and resource mobilization to achieve restoration goals.
5. Closing Remarks:
Mr. Shiva Wagle, Director General of the Department of Forests and Soil Conservation (DOFSC), delivered closing remarks, acknowledging the successful discussions and stressing the importance of implementing the outcomes of the consultation.
Outcome and Way Forward
The consultation highlighted Nepal’s commitment to freshwater restoration and its role in achieving global targets. Stakeholders emphasized the importance of policy support, scientific research, and collaboration with international partners like IUCN and WWF to address freshwater degradation.
With clear strategies and actionable steps identified, the event marks a significant milestone in advancing Nepal's efforts under the Freshwater Challenge, promoting sustainable development, and safeguarding freshwater biodiversity for future generations.
