SOLUKHUMBU, April 29: Renowned US climate scientist Charles Bedford has emphasized the need to protect the mountains for future generations.
Addressing the “Climbers’ Summit” organized by the Sath Sathai Foundation in Thame, Solukhumbu, Charles Bedford — who is also the former head of Carbon Growth Partners — stressed this point. Highlighting that climate change is not just a scientific issue but also a political one, he said, "Now we must create our own solutions."
Bedford, who has worked in global conservation and climate finance for over 30 years, remarked, "This is the most fascinating climate summit I have ever participated in. Although I could not understand everything due to language barriers, I deeply felt the commitment and positive energy here."
Sagarmatha Sambaad: Nepal calls for global action to protect mo...
Pointing out that women and poor communities are the most directly affected by climate change, Bedford called for greater activism at local and regional levels to build solutions. “True security means a stable climate. It is commendable that the Defense Minister has realized this early on,” Bedford said.
Referring to Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, he mentioned that Nepal has a huge opportunity to bring in billions of dollars through the carbon market. He also advised the government to introduce new tax policies, improve climate finance structures, eliminate fossil fuel subsidies and establish a loss and damage fund. "Although these are complex measures, climbers from Thame understand well that a journey begins with the first step. Now, we must also start taking steps," he said.
Focus on Post-Disaster Reconstruction and Climate Justice
Thame village had recently been devastated by a flood triggered by the outburst of a glacial lake. The summit sought to draw the attention of national and international policymakers toward post-disaster reconstruction and the issue of long-term climate justice.
In the context of the government preparing to soon host the Sagarmatha Sambad program, the summit organized by the Sath Sathai Foundation is also seen as a preparatory event for it. By amplifying the voices of Himalayan communities, the summit is expected to have a direct impact on policymaking.
