Kathmandu, April 23, 2025 — The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Nepal has unveiled its transformative #GenClima campaign, enlisting the expertise and advocacy of renowned climate influencers Nima Rinji Sherpa and Purnima Shrestha. Together, they aim to amplify the voices of frontline communities battling the escalating effects of climate change in the Himalayas.
The campaign arrives at a critical juncture, as the region’s iconic glaciers are retreating at an alarming pace. Scientific research indicates that the rate of ice loss has doubled over the past four decades, threatening the livelihoods of over a billion people dependent on Himalayan water resources. Beyond melting glaciers, the region faces an increasing risk of catastrophic events such as glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs), which were tragically illustrated by the devastation caused by Lhonak Lake’s breach in Sikkim in 2023.
Unequal Impacts Demand Inclusive Solutions
Climate change in Nepal has far-reaching and unequal impacts. Marginalized groups, including women and indigenous communities, face heightened vulnerabilities due to systemic inequities in resource access and decision-making. A collaborative report by ICIMOD and UN agencies highlights these disparities, emphasizing the urgent need for targeted interventions.
In response, UNDP Nepal’s #GenClima initiative underscores inclusivity, aiming to bridge these gaps through awareness and action. By drawing attention to the lived experiences of those most affected, the campaign fosters solutions rooted in equity and local resilience. Projects like the Climate Action for Indigenous Women in Nepal (CLAN) further empower communities to develop adaptive strategies, demonstrating the transformative potential of community-driven efforts.
Global Urgency, Local Advocacy
During a 2023 visit to Nepal, UN Secretary-General António Guterres described witnessing firsthand the devastating effects of Himalayan glacier melt, calling for immediate global action. “Glaciers are melting at record rates. I was a witness. The effect is devastating,” he remarked. His words echo the urgency behind #GenClima, as the initiative seeks to inspire meaningful policy changes and broader public engagement.
Championing a Sustainable Future
With the #GenClima campaign, UNDP Nepal reaffirms its commitment to climate justice and sustainability. By spotlighting the stories and solutions from the Himalayan frontline, it aims to create a ripple effect—uniting diverse voices to combat a global crisis with local insights and global solidarity.
For further details about #GenClima and how to participate, visit UNDP Nepal’s official platforms.
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