Pokhara Tourism Council Partners with Chinese Association to Promote Carbon Neutral Tourism
The Pokhara Tourism Council (PTC) has signed a cooperation agreement with China’s Shanxi Carbon Neutrality Technology Development Association to promote sustainable tourism and reduce carbon emissions in Nepal’s tourism sector.
The agreement, signed on Sunday, marks a significant step toward addressing climate change challenges while encouraging green development in the region. The signing ceremony was attended by PTC Chairman Taranath Pahari and Chinese representative Wu Chao.
Under the agreement, both organizations will collaborate on policy research related to carbon neutrality, green finance, carbon asset management, and the adoption of low-carbon technologies.
Speaking at the event, Chairman Pahari emphasized the urgency of sustainable initiatives in tourism. He stated that the partnership would help integrate China’s experience in carbon neutrality and green development with the local context of Pokhara.
The initiative aims to transform Pokhara’s tourism infrastructure by promoting environmentally friendly hotels and restaurants. It also focuses on modernizing transportation systems and tourist destinations through the use of clean energy, efficient waste management, and energy-saving building technologies.
In addition, the partnership plans to develop a low-carbon agricultural model to support green certification and add value to local products. This approach is expected to strengthen the connection between local farmers and the tourism industry.
Council advisor Basu Tripathi highlighted that climate change is a global challenge requiring collective action. He noted that the partnership would contribute to preserving Pokhara’s natural environment and cultural heritage.
Echoing this sentiment, Wu Chao stated that protecting nature is not only a responsibility of the present generation but also for future generations.
Mani Raj Lamichhane, Chief of the Nepal Tourism Board (Gandaki Province), expressed confidence that the collaboration would positively impact the region’s tourism sector and promote eco-friendly tourism practices.
However, Council General Secretary Jeevan Raj Sapkota warned that urgent action is needed to prevent serious environmental consequences if sustainable measures are not implemented promptly.
The agreement also aligns with the broader Trans-Himalayan Multi-Dimensional Connectivity Network, aiming to strengthen Nepal–China relations through practical and environmentally focused cooperation.
