What Are The Natural Resources Of Nepal?
Nepal, a South Asian country home to some of the world’s most beautiful mountains, is also abundant in natural resources. Though the nation has limited access to modern technologies, it makes the most of its natural resources. From minerals to forests, Nepal has much to explore and utilize. Here are some of the notable natural resources of Nepal.
Freshwater Resources
Nepal is a major source of fresh water in South Asia. It is home to the world’s third-largest glacial lake, the Tilicho Lake, as well as numerous rivers and streams that are fed by melting snow. The country has numerous rivers originating from the Himalayas, including the Karnali, the Narayani, and the Gandaki rivers. Other freshwater sources include ponds, wetlands, and small lakes, including the Rara and Phewa Lake. The country gets 70-85% of its electricity from hydropower with 26 operating hydroelectric projects.
Geological Resources
Nepal is home to a number of geological resources and minerals. These include limestone, quartzite, clay, gemstones, iron ore, copper, cobalt, and uranium. Oil and gas deposits have also been found in the nation, but they are yet to be tapped. The nation is also the world’s second largest producer of pumice after Mexico.
Agricultural Resources
Agriculture is the backbone of Nepal’s economy since it provides employment to a large percentage of the population. The country is divided into the Terai, Inner and Higher regions, and each has its own set of natural resources and agricultural practices. While the Terai region is home to paddy fields, the Inner region is known for terraced cultivation and the Higher region for barley, buckwheat, and maize, and the cultivation of cold-tolerant plants. Nepal is also home to medicinal herbs and spices such as ginger, cardamom, and turmeric.
Forests
Nepal is home to diverse forests, ranging from deciduous forests in the Terai region to rhododendron and oak forests in the foothills. Combined, the country’s forests cover almost one-third of its land area. The country is also the third most important source of fuelwood in South Asia and accounts for 15% of the total area under forest cover. Deforestation is a major concern in Nepal, with an estimated 16,000 hectares of forests being lost in 2019.
Wildlife Resources
Nepal’s forests are also home to a diverse array of wildlife. There are over 600 species of birds, from the great Indian hornbill to the Himalayan monal. The country is also home to 69 species of mammals, including tigers, red pandas, and Asiatic black bears. Other wildlife includes reptiles, invertebrates, and butterflies.
Tourism Resources
Nepal is known for its spectacular mountain scenery, with 8 of the world’s 10 tallest peaks lying within its borders. This has made the country a popular destination for trekking, mountaineering, and sightseeing. In addition, the country is home to a number of cultural, archaeological, and religious sites, such as the world’s tallest Shiva statue and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Kathmandu Valley.
Nepal is a captivating land of diverse resources. From freshwater to forests, the nation is rich in natural resources. However, the nation is facing environmental pressures due to deforestation, leading to the loss of biodiversity and other environmental concerns. In addition, Nepal needs to develop policies and procedures that make the most of its existing resources, while promoting sustainable development.