What are the problems of natural resource management?

Natural resource management in Nepal faces several critical challenges that hinder sustainable development and environmental conservation. The primary issue is over-exploitation, driven by rapid population growth and poverty. Deforestation remains rampant, with Nepal losing over 66% of its forest cover since the 1950s due to illegal logging, agricultural expansion, and fuelwood collection. Overgrazing has degraded 80% of the country’s land, while unregulated mining—particularly of gold and sand—has caused severe environmental damage, including riverbed destruction and soil erosion.

A second major problem is poor governance and institutional weaknesses. Despite laws like the Forest Act (1993) and the National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act (1973), enforcement remains weak due to corruption, lack of funding, and insufficient technical capacity. Coordination among government agencies (e.g., Department of Forest, Department of Mines and Geology) is often fragmented, leading to inefficiencies. Additionally, local communities frequently lack access to decision-making processes, exacerbating conflicts over resource use.

Population pressure further strains natural resources. With a population density of 185 people per km² in the Terai and rising demand for fuelwood, timber, and agricultural land, ecosystems are under immense stress. Climate change exacerbates these challenges: glacial retreat (31% loss in the Himalayas), erratic rainfall patterns, and increased frequency of floods and droughts threaten water security and biodiversity. Species like the greater one-horned rhino and red panda face habitat loss, while agricultural productivity declines due to unpredictable weather.

Technological and infrastructural gaps also impede sustainable management. Small-scale farmers lack access to modern irrigation, soil conservation techniques, and renewable energy alternatives. Poor transportation networks hinder the efficient distribution of resources and limit market access for eco-friendly products. Finally, social conflicts arise from unequal access to resources, with marginalized groups (e.g., indigenous communities) often excluded from benefit-sharing mechanisms.

Addressing these issues requires integrated policies, community participation, and international cooperation to ensure equitable and sustainable natural resource management.