Strengthening Climate Change Adaptation in Nepal: Needs and Perspectives

Abstract

Nepal is one of the countries most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, due to its geographical fragility and socio-political circumstances. The effects of climate change are observed across regions, society and villages, mostly impacting the wellbeing of poor and marginalized households. This research explores the existing challenges of managing climate change adaptation in Nepal. The research is based on a case study of three different locations of Nepal, representing different landscapes. The findings show that the impact of climate change differs based on the socio-economic characteristics of households and communities. Poor and marginalized households seem to be more affected by the impacts of climate change than the rich and well off, because of their resource limitations. The findings also show that responses to and management of climate change at the local level are constrained by limited information and knowledge on climate change, inadequate access to technology and services and other governance challenges. The findings imply that local, national, regional and international collaboration is needed, to address the knowledge gap and issues related to financing and technology transfer in Nepal.