LALITPUR: The Nepal Academy of Science and Technology (NAST) is to address the epidemic that is wiping out oranges in Nepal.

The Academy said it would set up and operate the high mountain pyramid lab at an altitude of 5,050 metres in collaboration with Italian organisation.

Earlier, the Academy had made public it would launch its own satellite ‘Nepal Sat-1’ on April 17.

At a press conference on Monday, NAST Vice-Chancellor Sunil Babu Shrestha informed the Academy would initiate ‘DNA Bar Coding’ of plants and animals of Nepal and explore the potential of generating energy from waste, experimenting renewable energy technology and its transfer.

The Academy has also planned to assess radiation, establish a forensic lab, provide fellowship for research promotion and prepare the foundation of science communication in Nepal.

Also, the NAST is engaging in establishing ‘Himalayan Seed Bank’ in the high hill area to promote entrepreneurship.

The Academy is also focusing on preserving indigenous knowledge, skills, entrepreneurship and technology.

It was also informed that the NAST is organising ‘Science Street Fair’ to promote collaboration between scientists and the public in April.