Nepal has raised climate compensation concerns: Minister Mahato (interview)

December 5, Dubai: The Minister for Forest and Environment, Dr. Birendra Prasad Mahato, is presently in Dubai, UAE, attending the 2023 UN Climate Change Conference (UNFCCC COP 28). Kaushal Ghimire, the editor of Radio Nepal, had the opportunity to interview Minister Mahato at the Nepal Pavilion.

What issues has Nepal raised during the COP28 Summit?

Minister Mahato: We have raised, and we will continue to raise, the agendas of vulnerable communities in the mountains and elsewhere in the country throughout this COP28. Prime Minister Puspa Kamal Dahal “Prachanda” also raised these issues, and the recent visit of the UN Secretary-General to Nepal has brought the world’s attention to our country giving us a better platform to raise our concerns

What are your and the Government of Nepal’s expectations from this summit and what can the world do for Nepal?

Minister Mahato: We have fulfilled almost all our commitments made during previous summits, whether it be enhancing forest coverage or saving species. However, our primary expectation remains and revolves around the critical issues of loss and damage. Despite having negligible carbon emissions, we are disproportionately experiencing the adverse effects of climate change. We are advocating for substantial compensation through the climate fund to address the damages incurred. We believe that the world can do a lot to help vulnerable communities in Nepal build resistance against climate change, and we are actively pursuing these measures. We are optimistic about the outcomes and look forward to constructive discussions.

Nepal has its separate pavilion during this summit. How has it helped Nepal’s cause?

Minister Mahato Having our own pavilion has been extremely beneficial. We have the entire stage to ourselves to communicate our agenda effectively. It has allowed us to not only raise awareness about the challenges we face but also to emphasize the urgent need for compensation to address loss and damage caused by climate change. The platform has facilitated productive discussions, and we hope it will contribute to garnering support for vulnerable communities.