World Environment Day: Prez Paudel calls for global unity to combat climate change, secure future generations

KATHMANDU: President Ramchandra Paudel has urged the global community to safeguard the future of upcoming generations by mitigating the adverse impacts of climate change.

At a function held at the President's Office in Kathmandu to commemorate World Environment Day, President Paudel drew attention to the swift changes taking place in glaciers and glacial lakes due to the escalating effects of global warming. These changes have posed challenges to life and livelihoods, with flash floods and landslides impacting downstream areas.

"Nepal, along with other countries globally, is grappling with crises triggered by climate change, pollution, and loss of biodiversity. These crises cannot be tackled by individual efforts; unity is essential," the President declared.

He pointed out that our collective challenges and opportunities are encapsulated in the theme of World Environment Day: 'Our Land, Our Future: Land Restoration, Desertification and Drought Resistance'.

Echoing the sentiments expressed by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on alleviating Nepal's mountain crisis, the high risk of climate change, and climate-related issues in Nepal and other mountainous countries, President Paudel voiced concern over Nepal's negligible contribution to greenhouse gas emissions.

He underscored the need for the international community to band together to address the problems stemming from climate change and to lessen its impact.

Highlighting that Nepal has been undertaking various initiatives at the national level to mitigate the effects of climate change, and that this issue has been incorporated into the government's policies and programmes, President Paudel expressed optimism that the President Climate Change Management Programme would help enhance adaptive capacity by curbing the adverse impacts of climate change.

President Paudel initiated the plantation drive by planting a 'palas' sapling on the grounds of the President's building.

Vice President Ram Sahay Prasad Yadav, Chief Justice Bishwombhar Prasad Shrestha, Speaker Devraj Ghimire, and National Assembly Chair Narayan Dahal also planted saplings. Chief Secretary Baikuntha Aryal, Chief of Army Staff Prabhuram Sharma, heads of security agencies, ambassadors from different countries, and heads of donor agencies were in attendance on the occasion.

By RSS