KATHMANDU, MAY 19
The Himalayan Climate Boot Camp-2024 team conducted an interactive session with glaciologists at the Pyramid International Laboratory/Observatory in Lobuche, the world's highest altitude laboratory in the Mt Everest region.
During the session, Ines Dussaillant, a glaciologist from the University of Zurich, Switzerland, highlighted the rapid melting of glaciers in the Himalayan region due to global warming, which impacts both upstream and downstream communities. She emphasized that significant changes have been observed in the Mera Peak, Kumbu and other glaciers, warning of the broader implications for the region. Dussaillant also stressed the importance of preserving the Pyramid International Laboratory for ongoing high-altitude research.
Kaji Bista, the manager of the Pyramid International Laboratory, provided a brief history of the lab since its inception. He noted that the lab has not been fully operational since 2014 due to a cessation of funding from the Italian organization EVK2CNR. However, Bista mentioned that a new memorandum of understanding between the Nepal Academy of Science and Technology (NAST) and EVK2CNR would restore the lab's functionality. He expressed pride in the lab's significance to the global scientific community and its essential role in high-altitude research.
The lab is equipped with weather and seismic stations in Lobuche, Base Camp, Pheriche, and other locations. The interactive session included active participation from science journalists Nidhi Jamwal and Athar Parvaiz from India, Md. Jahidul Islam from Bangladesh, Chencho Dema from Bhutan, and Tanka Dhakal from Nepal.
Chhatra Karki, Team Lead of the Himalayan Climate Boot Camp 2024, explained that the camp aims to explore climate and environmental issues in the Everest region, providing journalists with firsthand experience. He stated that interactions with experts enhance journalists' ability to cover climate issues comprehensively.
Rajan Pokhrel, President of the Nepal Forum of Science Journalists (NFSJ), concluded the session with a vote of thanks, urging for more such interactions to bridge the gap between the scientific community and science journalists.
NFSJ organised HCBC-2024 with the support from Spark Grant Initiative having logistic partners – Seven Summit Treks and Knowledge partners – International Shepra Guides, Sagarmatha Pollution Control Committee, Um Hong Gil Human Foundation and SAS-Trust.
The participants also observed the noble activities being conducted by SPPCC and UHGHF. "All stakeholders need to collaborate for the preservation of mountain environment," said AC Sherpa, founder of International Sherpa Guides.
