Kathmandu: Nepal has achieved significant progress in conservation through the Terai Arc Landscape Initiative, a collaborative effort led by WWF Nepal and local communities. The initiative has reported substantial gains in forest restoration, wildlife conservation, and sustainable livelihoods, reinforcing Nepal’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
According to recent data, the initiative has successfully restored 66,800 hectares of forest, playing a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity and mitigating climate change. Wildlife conservation efforts have also yielded impressive results, with Nepal’s rhino population increasing to 752 and the tiger population tripling to 355. These achievements highlight the effectiveness of conservation strategies and strong community engagement.
Beyond environmental restoration, the initiative has also contributed to improving livelihoods for more than 500,000 households. Special emphasis has been placed on inclusive economic opportunities, particularly for persons with disabilities, through income-generating activities. Additionally, the initiative has implemented climate change adaptation and disaster risk reduction measures, such as forest fire management, riverbank embankment, and floodplain protection, to safeguard both ecosystems and human settlements.
Finland, through WWF Suomi, has played a key role in supporting these efforts. The success of the Terai Arc Landscape Initiative demonstrates that when landscapes are restored, both nature and communities thrive.
