The aroma of freshly brewed tea filled the crisp morning air as I sat with my mentor on the second day of 2025. The world seemed quiet, yet full of potential, and as we reflected on the year ahead, our conversation naturally turned to aspirations and opportunities. “When will you take a leap forward?” he asked, his eyes filled with curiosity and wisdom.
“This year,” I replied, feeling the weight of conviction in my words. “This year is ripe with opportunity, especially for green growth.” He nodded, a knowing smile spreading across his face. “Nepal stands at a crossroads,” he said. “We have the potential to lead in sustainable development, to show the world how economic growth and environmental protection can go hand in hand.”
Buoyed by his encouragement and the warmth of the tea, we delved into a conversation about the immense green opportunities that lie ahead, not just for Nepal but for the global stage. Central to our discussion was a lesson made clear over the past years: the enduring importance of self-reliance.
The markets in Nepal today tell a story of dependency. Shelves are filled with imported goods, from daily essentials to medicines. The pandemic and the 2015 blockade had revealed just how fragile this reliance truly was, disrupting supply chains and exposing vulnerabilities. Yet self-reliance, as my mentor reminded me, is not about producing everything ourselves. It is about prioritising the essentials and harnessing the wealth of local resources that surround us.
Nepal’s traditions, particularly its use of medicinal herbs like chiraito and panchaaule, exemplify this. These resources, when paired with research and development, could become powerful tools in creating health solutions rooted in our biodiversity. Beyond production, self-reliance also means embracing cultural heritage. Our festivals, deeply tied to agriculture and nature, showcase the richness of our traditions. Take Chhath in the Terai, for example – a celebration that honours the Sun God with offerings of sugarcane, fruits and thekuwa. This festival is more than a religious event; it is a tribute to the land, water and solar energy that sustain life.
As we sipped our tea, we explored how these traditions could form the backbone of a Creative Green Economy. Our cultural heritage is intertwined with the land, and this connection can inspire innovative solutions for sustainable livelihoods. Yet to realise this potential, we must address critical gaps in our food and market systems. The concept of food miles, the distance food travels to reach consumers, came to the forefront of our discussion. Long transportation routes not only increase carbon footprints but also disconnect consumers from producers. Strengthening local market systems, we agreed, is essential for reducing these distances, promoting sustainability and bolstering rural economies.
“Our cities are filled with supermarkets and shopping malls,” I noted. “But where are the vibrant farmers’ markets – the haats – that once brought communities together?” My mentor nodded in agreement. While modern marts offer convenience, they often prioritise imported and processed goods, widening the gap between people and the source of their food. In contrast, haats reduce environmental impact and foster a closer connection between consumers and producers. These markets, alive with the energy of local farmers and artisans, are more than places of trade – they are hubs of community life and sustainability.
We turned our focus to the youth, whose energy and creativity hold the key to revitalising our communities. The reverse migration of young people to rural and urban areas during times of crisis presents an unparalleled opportunity. But simply returning to these places is not enough. To truly transform communities, young people need skills and knowledge tailored to a sustainable economy.
We envisioned bustling training centres nestled in serene rural landscapes, where young minds could learn the intricacies of organic farming, permaculture, renewable energy systems, sustainable crafts and eco-tourism. Mobile workshops, equipped with cutting-edge technology and led by skilled instructors, could traverse even the remotest corners of Nepal, bringing hands-on training to those who need it most. Digital learning platforms could bridge the divide between urban and rural areas, offering resources that empower youth to learn at their own pace and gain expertise in sustainable practices. To nurture innovation, technology incubators in rural areas could provide mentorship, funding and access to tools, fostering green entrepreneurs and their ideas for eco-friendly products and innovative agricultural solutions.
The warmth of the tea and my mentor’s words kindled a renewed commitment within me. The vision of a green Nepal felt closer, more achievable. This year is not just another year – it is a call to action, an opportunity to embrace our traditions, innovate for sustainability, and build a resilient future.
As I finished my tea, I felt the weight of this opportunity and the immense responsibility it carries. Every sip, every conversation, and every step forward are a reminder that small actions today pave the way for a greener, more prosperous tomorrow. Together, we can transform Nepal into a leader of green growth, setting an example for the world to follow.
(Dhakal is co-founder of story cycle. He can be reached at saurav@storycycle.com)
