Transiting to green growth: natural resources in Nepal

project summary

In recent years, increasing global concerns for the well-being of the earth’s environmental resources and growing human population has led to the emergence of the concept of the green economy: how can human well-being and environmental resource management be simultaneously improved? The transition to green growth is relevant in many developing countries characterized by fast population growth, widespread poverty and inequality, and high rates of environmental degradation. However, transition is rendered difficult by lack of knowledge, e.g. how can green growth create more jobs for the poor while making sure that natural resources are not overexploited? This research project investigates the potential for transition to green growth in the commercial medicinal and aromatic plant (MAP) sector in Nepal. The trade involves millions of people, from harvesters in remote villages to large regional wholesalers and consumers in China and India. Raw and processed MAPs constitute a largely informal export commodity of national economic importance to Nepal, and the potential for generating new benefits when transiting to green growth appears attractive, e.g. overharvesting of species is common and producers receive low prices as they remain uninformed of end user demands. The project will describe and quantify this south-south trade, including its governance and impact on the resource base. Outcomes will include specific measures to enhance resource use sustainability, augment pro-poor employment, increase business competitiveness, and improve institutional frameworks. The project will build human and social capacity at key Nepalese universities and is committed to the dissemination of results and participation in policy improvement processes throughout the project period.