Climate Change and Its Impact on Biodiversity of Nepal

Abstract

Climate change and biodiversity are interdependent on each other. Increased average global temperatures, due to anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions, along with extreme and unpredictable weather patterns, are key manifestations of climate change, significantly affecting the planet's biodiversity and further threatening the delicate balance of the ecosystem. Biodiversity, the cornerstone of ecosystem stability and resilience, is severely threatened by habitat loss, altered migration patterns, and increased frequency of extreme weather events. Nepal, with its variety of ecosystems, vegetation types, diverse forest cover, and a wide range of plant and animal species, is exceptionally rich in biodiversity; however, it is also not spared. Located in the lap of the Hindu Kush-Himalayan region with a unique topography, Nepal is one of the most susceptible countries to confront the harmful impacts of climate change and requires appropriate urgent proactive actions. This paper examines the multifaceted relationship between climate change and biodiversity in Nepal, highlighting the threats posed by rising temperatures, altered precipitation patterns, and increased  requency of extreme weather events. Through qualitative content analysis of existing literature and empirical data, this study aims to identify effective strategies for mitigating climate change's adverse effects on Nepal's biodiversity. The finding has emphasised the Community Forest program as a 'Go Green Campaign,’ increasing the role of local governments and the Nepali Army in nature conservation, stringent law enforcement, funding increase towards climate change, promoting national and international collaboration to enhance the resilience of climate change and biodiversity conservation in Nepal.