Climate Change - ForestAction Nepal

Participation in agricultural exhibition and farmers fair

Posted on December 23, 2024 by admin

Participation in agricultural exhibition and farmers fair at Agriculture and Forestry University, Rampur, Chitwan

From December 14–18, 2024, ForestAction Nepal participated in the Agricultural exhibition and farmers fair organized by Agriculture and Forestry University at Rampur, Chitwan. Utilizing this event as a platform to promote agroecology among diverse stakeholders, we collaborated with the Organic Farmers Federation Chitwan (Jilla Prangarik Sangh) and Shree Prangarik Krishi Utpadak Sahakari Sanstha Limited and showcased a variety of local and indigenous seeds and crops from across Nepal. Similarly, informative posters/arts were also displayed, highlighting the importance of sustainable farming, the effects of climate change, and the benefits of using indigenous seeds instead of commercial ones. The stall attracted many visitors who appreciated the displays and information presented.

National policy dialogue: Transforming the role of CFs in the context of a shift in socio-political priorities, growing economic opportunities & climate change

Posted on December 23, 2024January 17, 2025 by admin

The debate on forest sector governance has become more intense within the federal structure due to the lack of clarity in the use and responsibility to conserve forests, carbon services and biodiversity among the three tiers of government. Against this backdrop, the Ministry of Forests and Environment, Federation of Community Forest Users Nepal (FECOFUN), with the support of FFF (Forest and Farm Facility) and in collaboration with ForestAction Nepal and RECOFTC, organised a two-day Policy Dialogue on 19^th and 20^th December 2024 focusing on “Transforming the Role of Community Forests in the Context of a Shift in Socio-Political Priorities, Growing Economic Opportunities and Climate Change.” The objective of this policy dialogue was to focus on fostering an inclusive discussion on the evolving role of community forests in addressing sociopolitical dynamics, driving economic development through sustainable livelihoods, and enhancing community resilience to climate change through adaptation and mitigation activities.

Four different sessions including a presentation and panel discussions were held. Out of the them, Dr. Naya Sharma Paudel from ForestAction presented and moderated the panel discussion on “Policy framework and governance restructure enabling community forestry in socio-political transitions.” The session focused on the evolving socio-political dynamics of community forestry (CF) and the challenges they pose, such as declining community engagement, institutional inefficiencies, and tedious policies. Panelists highlighted the importance of simplifying policies, and ensuring equitable financial benefits while addressing legislative delays and fostering effective governance across all tiers of government.

Overall, the two days policy dialogue brought different stakeholder together to invest and discuss on necessary strategic interventions which will propel the effects and impacts of previous interventions to larger areas, and producer groups and organisations.

A Walking Training: Exploring Agriculture, Ecology, Climate Change and Culture

Posted on September 6, 2023January 2, 2024 by admin

A walking training was conducted from September 1st to 5th, 2023, with the participation of 17 agricultural graduates in Chitwan district. On the first day of the route, the journey commenced in Hugdi, Dhading district, and concluded at Upper Kaule in Chitwan district. During the visit to Kaule, a brief observation of Chepang culture, traditions, agricultural practices, and lifestyle was carried out. It was also observed that the Chepang community has embraced modernization and there appeared to be a decline in their devotion to their own cultural heritage.

The second day of the journey began in Kaule and concluded at Upardangadi. Along the way, the participants observed the impact of climate change on the local community and vegetation. Dr. Jeewan Chetri moderated a discussion on climate change during this part of the walk.

The third day’s route started in Upardangadi and ended in Syangdi. During this leg of the journey, the participants observed deforestation, wildfires in the forests, and changes in vegetation as they ascended the Mahabharat range. This experience provided insight into the challenges faced by previous generations.

On the fourth day, the journey started in Syangdi and ended in Madi. During this portion of the walk, the participants observed the agricultural practices of the Madi community, with a particular focus on the Tharu community. They visited an organic farm to evaluate the use of organic fertilizers and botanicals for successful organic farming. Additionally, they visited a farm that integrated both organic and inorganic practices. This farm showcased advanced technologies such as high-tech tunnels, drip irrigation, vermi composting, Azolla preparation, and livestock farming. The participants also had the opportunity to learn about an inspiring Ph.D. holder who returned to Nepal to practice high-tech and organic farming.

On the fifth day, some of the participants traveled to Sumeshwor Mahadev, which marks the border between Nepal and India, while others engaged with the Tharu community to discuss their agricultural practices and cultural heritage. At the conclusion of the training, a self-reflection session was arranged to assess the training’s impact on the graduates’ learning and development.