Help us plant trees in Nepal to reduce pollution and provide cleaner air to citizens of Kathmandu!

Kathmandu may be most recognized for its historical stupas, wonderful people and picturesque Himalayan surroundings, but the land is suffering. Once a haven of rolling green hills, Kathmandu is experiencing environmental decline due to increased population and development. Kathmandu was recently listed as the 7th most polluted city in the world. The average PM2.5 concentration (measurement of particles in the air) is nearly 5 times higher than that recommended by the World Health Organization. Kathmandu's fog of pollution is suffocating and threatening the health of its citizens. 

Many individuals, groups and organizations are attempting to combat Kathmandu's pollution issues in their own ways, but it's often an uphill battle with a government apathetic toward environmental issues. It wasn't until I was visiting a monastery and met monks determined to promote sustainability that I realized grassroots initiatives might be Kathmandu's best hope.

Near Boudhanath Stupa I became aware of Shechen Eco Group, a small organization within Shechen Monastery comprised of monks volunteering to promote sustainability. When the 15-year-old monk giving the presentation asked me for new tips and ideas they could incorporate, I immediately wanted to help. Ultimately a friend suggested we buy and plant trees in the open spaces of the monastery. We have begun with 30 trees and, with volunteers willing to help transport and plant as many trees as possible, we would like to expand this initiative to continue to buy and plant hundreds more trees throughout monasteries in Kathmandu and surrounding areas. The monks tend to the grounds of the monasteries and will take great care in growing and maintaining the trees.

According to a recent report, trees reduce particulate matter, which could help lower the dangerous PM2.5 levels in Kathmandu. Locals are desperate for a solution, and while the government may not be doing much to create a healthier environment for its citizens, the people can take matters into their own hands. Just $2 can buy a tree sapling. Please help us in our efforts to create a greener Kathmandu!