KATHMANDU: Nepal has received USD 9.4 million (Rs 1.19 billion) from the World Bank’s Forest Carbon Partnership Facility (FCPF) for reducing approximately 1.88 million tons of carbon dioxide under its REDD+ Emission Reductions Program in the Terai Arc Landscape.
This marks the first payment under the FCPF’s Emission Reductions Payment Agreement (ERPA), a major milestone in Nepal’s efforts to curb deforestation and forest degradation while promoting inclusive, sustainable forest management, the World Bank said in a press release.
The FCPF program in Nepal is noted for its strong community-based approach. Implemented across the ecologically rich and densely populated Terai Arc Landscape, it brings together local communities, Indigenous Peoples, and civil society organizations to protect and restore forests while enhancing rural livelihoods.
“This milestone payment is testament to Nepal’s success in reducing deforestation, strengthening forest governance, enhancing biodiversity conservation, and expanding sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities,” said David Sislen, World Bank Division Director for Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka.
The payment will be distributed according to Nepal’s Benefit Sharing Plan, developed through a participatory process involving local communities and key stakeholders. The plan ensures forest-dependent communities and Indigenous Peoples directly benefit from the results of their conservation efforts.
According to the World Bank, the investment will support continued forest restoration, community enterprises, and climate-resilient livelihoods, reinforcing Nepal’s global reputation as a pioneer in community forestry and participatory resource management.
“This results-based payment reflects the efforts and dedication of our forest-dependent communities, Indigenous Peoples, and the government in conserving and managing our forests. Nepal remains committed to advancing climate action through inclusive and community-led forest management,” said Dr. Rajendra Prasad Mishra, Secretary of the Ministry of Forests and Environment.
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