Nepal commits to achieving net zero emissions by 2045 amid global efforts for a sustainable future. This goal faces significant hurdles due to economic aspirations, geographical challenges, and reliance on traditional energy sources. Although the country contributes minimally to global emissions, its vulnerability to climate change necessitates a strategic approach to implement its national climate commitments, particularly through secured international funding.
As global initiatives steer toward a sustainable future, net zero carbon emissions by 2050 emerges as a central objective. Nepal aims to accelerate its progress by committing to achieve net zero emissions by 2045, which is five years ahead of the global timeline. Yet, this ambitious target faces significant challenges due to the country’s developmental goals, geographical limitations, and existing infrastructure.
Despite contributing only about 0.03 percent of global emissions, Nepal is acutely affected by climate change, evident in erratic weather patterns and increased natural disasters. The 2015 Paris Agreement mandates nations to adhere to climate commitments, leading Nepal to submit its national targets known as Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). The first NDC, presented in 2016, enumerated mitigation strategies such as promoting clean energy and sustainable practices across various sectors.
A 2020 assessment revealed that Nepal struggled to meet targets set in the first NDC due to insufficient stakeholder engagement and political commitment, alongside limited institutional support. In response, Nepal’s second enhanced NDC presented in 2020 set forth further ambitions, particularly in energy and adaptation strategies. This contrasts with major emitters like China and India, which set later net zero targets to accommodate their developmental needs.
In terms of budget, the complete implementation of the NDC is estimated at $33 billion, with only $3.4 billion sourced from domestic resources for hydroelectric projects. The remaining target to cut greenhouse gas emissions in other sectors relies heavily on international funding. Challenges include the dependence on fossil fuels and traditional energy sources, which complicate efforts to achieve net zero.
While the journey toward a low-carbon economy is daunting, Nepal possesses abundant opportunities, particularly in hydropower generation, which can cater to energy demands and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. However, transitioning must be gradual, considering potential economic impacts, similar to challenges faced by Sri Lanka. Resource allocation and strategic planning are necessary to harmonize economic ambitions with sustainability goals, especially as Nepal prepares a third NDC.
In conclusion, Nepal’s ambition to reach net zero emissions by 2045 is commendable but fraught with immense challenges, including funding shortages, heavy reliance on traditional energy, and infrastructural limitations. The successful realization of this target will depend heavily on securing international support and committed stakeholder engagement. Furthermore, as Nepal seeks to balance rapid economic growth with sustainable practices, careful planning and execution of its NDCs will be vital for fostering a resilient and low-carbon future.
Original Source: asianews.network
