From Evidence to Action: National Dialogue on Air Pollution in Nepal

The National Dialogue on Air Pollution: Issues, Current Situation, and Policy was successfully held on 31 December 2025 in New Baneshwor. The program was jointly organized by CLEAN UP NEPAL and GD Labs and Research, with support from the EPIC Air Quality Fund.

During the dialogue, Ms. Reena Chaudhary, Environmental Inspector at the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA), highlighted the severe and long-term impacts of air pollution on human health. She also shared ongoing efforts by the Government of Nepal and NDRRMA to recognize air pollution as a disaster risk and to strengthen collaboration with relevant stakeholders.

Representatives from Kathmandu and Lalitpur Metropolitan Cities, along with other municipalities of the Kathmandu Valley, shared local-level practices and initiatives aimed at reducing air pollution. Participants from INGOs, NGOs, private sector, journalist emphasized the urgent need for an integrated and coordinated approach, strengthening local government resources and capacities, and enhancing community awareness through the active engagement of civil society organizations.

Rabindra Lamichhane, Executive Director of CLEAN UP NEPAL, presented on the major causes of air pollution, constitutional provisions related to clean air, practical actions for improving air quality, and the importance of synergy among like-minded institutions. He also highlighted the role of evidence-based policy advocacy and policy and strategy support in effectively addressing air pollution, reaffirming CLEAN UP NEPAL’s commitment to expanding collaboration for inclusive policy analysis and stakeholder engagement.

Mr. Samip Sigdel, Chief Executive Officer of GD Lab & Research, shared insights from the joint initiative of installing air quality monitoring devices in 39 schools and 1 community across the Kathmandu Valley. He highlighted key findings from the data and how it has encouraged schools, communities, and local governments to take informed actions for pollution reduction.

The dialogue concluded with strong calls for clearer policies, effective coordination among all levels of government, and sustained community-level awareness initiatives. The program was facilitated by Advocacy and Campaign Advisor Prem Prakash Nepali and chaired by CLEAN UP NEPAL Chairperson Amod Karmacharya. A total of 47 participants, including 14 women, took part in the dialogue.