Experts working in various sectors to mitigate the impacts of climate change have emphasized that protecting mountain regions is a shared responsibility of the global community, as mountains are vital sources of livelihood.
Speaking at a panel discussion titled "Exploring Nature, Culture, and Adventure in Mountains" , held as part of the ongoing Sagarmatha Sambaad on Saturday, panelists highlighted the importance of conserving mountain ecosystems as an essential part of mountain protection.
They noted that protecting the mountains helps preserve cultural heritage, traditional lifestyles, biodiversity, wildlife, and tourism—from the high hills to the lower plains.
WWF Nepal Country Representative Dr. Ghan Shyam Gurung delivered the keynote speech. Other speakers included Rajan Subedi, River Basin Manager at Oxfam; Nadhira Al Harthy, a Sagarmatha climber from Oman; Maureen Anion, Assistant Commissioner at Uganda’s Ministry of Water and Environment; and Tshering Sherpa, Chief Executive Officer of the Sagarmatha Pollution Control Committee.
Mountains make up about 22 percent of the Earth’s surface.
The session aimed to strengthen the integrity of mountain ecosystems, identify innovative solutions, and explore strategies to increase investment in natural capital for the benefit of a wider population. -- RSS