Kathmandu, May 18: The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Administrator Mr Achim Steiner has stated that Nepal’s ambitious goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2045 presents an inspiring example for the world to follow.
Delivering a video message during the ongoing Sagarmatha Sambaad (Everest Dialogue) in Kathmandu, Administrator Steiner expressed his pride in supporting Nepal, along with 140 countries globally, in pursuing transformational climate action toward a sustainable and inclusive future, through the UNDP’s climate initiatives aimed at addressing the world’s most pressing issue — climate change.
He mentioned that it was a great honor for him to address the Sagarmatha Sambaad. He highlighted that the event is inspired by Sagarmatha, the highest peak in the world, known globally as Mount Everest — a symbol of resilience and human perseverance. He added that Nepal and the Himalayas are at the frontline of the climate crisis.
He further stated, “Due to climate change, this unique ecological system, which includes glaciers and rivers, serves as a lifeline for nearly 2 billion people in South Asia. It supports water sources, food security, livelihoods, and economies. It is also a safe haven for biodiversity, providing protection to many rare and endangered species. But this extraordinary landscape is now facing an existential crisis due to climate change. Glaciers in the Hindu Kush-Himalaya region are melting at an alarming rate. The damage is occurring 65% faster than it did between 2011 and 2020. The winter of 2024–2025 experienced historically low snowfall, signaling an imminent water crisis for millions. These are not new findings, but rather urgent calls for immediate action to adapt to and mitigate the devastating impacts of climate change.”
As part of the United Nations system, Steiner said that UNDP is helping address such challenges globally. In the Asia-Pacific region, they are strengthening early warning systems to anticipate risks and building resilience against natural disasters and shocks. In Nepal, he emphasized, UNDP stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the government and the people to protect mountain communities from increasing climate risks.
He reiterated his pride in being able to support Nepal, alongside more than 140 countries, in driving transformational climate action toward a sustainable and inclusive future. #NAN #nepal #climate #undp #AchimSteiner
