Minister Paudel urges global support in addressing climate change challenges

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, Sept. 28: Minister of Health and Population Pradip Paudel has said that Nepal is highly affected by the effects of climate change, and the international community should provide assistance to mitigate its effects.

Speaking at the 5th ministerial meeting of the Asia-Pacific region held in Jakarta, Indonesia, on Thursday, he said that despite Nepal’s minimal contribution to climate change, Nepali citizens are suffering due to its effects. 

He recalled that the country had been advocating at both national and international levels to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change.

He said, “As a member of the Parliament, I have consistently advocated for the establishment of a climate parliament in Nepal to address the challenges of climate change at the policy level. Now, as the Minister for Health and Population, I am dedicated to taking the necessary actions to safeguard the health of both current and future generations.”

Minister Paudel mentioned that Nepal was the first country in South Asia to develop a National Health Adaptation Plan. 

Various measures were being taken to build a climate-resistant health system, he added. 

He stated that initiatives such as building the capacity of health workers, conducting research studies, strengthening climate-sensitive disease monitoring systems, and promoting climate resilience and environmental sustainability in health institutions are examples of actions implemented by Nepal

Acknowledging the significance of climate change in the health sector, Minister Paudel noted that Nepal was giving priority to both adaptation and mitigation measures. 

He highlighted that the government of Nepal had submitted its second national defined contribution plan, committing to the use of non-burn technology for health waste management in 1,400 health institutions.

Recalling the commitment to build a climate-friendly, low-carbon health system at COP 26, Minister Paudel informed that Nepal has succeeded in conducting a basic assessment of greenhouse gas emissions through the health sector.

Appreciating the provision of opening membership to all 51 countries and regions, he said, “Nepal is willing to become a full member of this regional forum.”

Mentioning the importance of mass awareness campaigns to educate citizens about the health risks caused by climate change and air pollution, Minister Paudel suggested promoting climate health education in school curricula and community programmes.

Stating that Nepal will support the health agenda addressing environmental, agriculture-related food security, and livestock and human health issues, he mentioned that he was fully committed to the actions presented in the Jakarta Declaration.