Environmental Transformation and its Acceleration in Nepal From Known History to the Contemporary Situation

Environmental Transformation and its Acceleration in Nepal From Known History to the Contemporary Situation

River Publishers Series in Social, Urban, Economic and Environmental Sustainability

Environmental Transformation and its Acceleration in Nepal From Known History to the Contemporary Situation Forthcoming

Author: Medani P. Bhandari, Akamai University, USA, Sumy State University, Ukraine and Gandaki University, Nepal

ISBN: 9788743801016 e-ISBN: 9788743801009

Available: August 2025


This is an in-depth exploration of Nepal’s environmental journey, tracing its transformation from ancient practices to modern sustainability challenges. Drawing from over four decades of experience as an environmentalist and humanitarian, Dr. Medani Bhandari takes readers through the historical, social, and ecological shifts that have shaped Nepal's environmental landscape. This comprehensive work examines the complex interplay between traditional knowledge, policy development, and global environmental trends, offering valuable insights into the country’s past, present, and future.

This is a critical resource for understanding the environmental challenges faced by Nepal, a country rich in natural resources but confronted with the pressing issues of deforestation, water scarcity, and climate change. By analyzing these challenges through the lens of history, politics, and social change, this book offers a holistic understanding of the forces at play and presents actionable solutions for moving forward.

This work bridges the gap between academic research and practical, on-the-ground experience. It incorporates diverse perspectives, combining ecological science with policy analysis, and highlights the interconnectedness of environmentalism with social justice, cultural identity, and global sustainability. The book provides policymakers, researchers, NGOs, and environmental advocates with a framework for fostering sustainable practices that are both contextually relevant and globally applicable.

Readers will see a detailed examination of Nepal’s environmental transformation, a roadmap for accelerating sustainable practices, and a call to action for local and global stakeholders. This book is an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to understand Nepal’s environmental evolution and the broader implications for sustainable development in the global context.

Technical topics discussed in the book include:          

  • Historical evolution of environmentalism in Nepal
  • Impact of traditional ecological knowledge on conservation practices
  • Deforestation and forest management strategies
  • Water scarcity and management challenges
  • Climate change impacts and adaptation in nepal
  • Biodiversity conservation and protected area management
  • Sustainable agricultural practices and agroforestry
  • Environmental policy and legislation in nepal
  • The role of NGOs and community-based conservation
  • The intersection of environmentalism, social justice, and equity
Environmental transformation, environmental ethics, holistic environmentalism, systems thinking, global environmental crises, green transitions, environmental justice, environmental transformation, Nepal, climate change, deforestation, biodiversity, conservation, sustainable development, traditional ecological knowledge, water scarcity, agroforestry, environmental policy, protected areas, climate adaptation, ecological resilience, social justice, environmental advocacy, green economy, environmental legislation, community-based conservation, ecosystem services, global sustainability
1. Introduction
2. The Natural Landscape of Nepal
3. Environmental Practices in Ancient Nepal
4. The Medieval Era: Shaping the Relationship Between Society and Environment
5. Colonial Influence and Environmental Changes
6. Modern Nepal: The Emergence of Environmental Challenges
7. Post-1950s Transformation: Environmental Awareness and Policy Development
8. The Role of International Agencies and Agreements
9. Contemporary Environmental Issues
10. Accelerating Environmental Transformation: Definition and Context
11. Environmental Movements and Advocacy
12. Technological Interventions in Environmental Management
13. Policy and Governance: Progress and Gaps
14. Future Directions for Environmental Transformation
15. Conclusion: Reflections on Nepal’s Environmental Journey
16. Why This Book? How the Story of This Book Fits with the Global Situation
16.2.
Anex 1. List of International Environmental Treaties and Conventions Signed by Nepal
Anex 2. Chronological List of Major Environmental Acts, Laws, and Regulations in Nepal
Anex 3. List of National Parks and Wildlife Reserves in Nepal
Anex 4. Major Community-Managed Forest Areas and Department of Forestry-Managed Forest Areas in Nepal
Anex 5. Major River Systems in Nepal: Origins and Final Routes
Anex 6. List of Major Hydropower Stations in Nepal and Electricity Production