In this Article
The International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) launched the climate-proofing mountain tourism landscape using a two-pronged approach: the field schools and policy development. These approaches are connecting communities to policy, where lessons and experiences from the field inform policy development.
Image Source: ICIMOD
The Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH), known for its stunning landscapes, cultural heritage, and religious importance, provides economic benefits and supports environmental conservation. However, climate change poses severe challenges, leading to rapid melting of ice and snow, floods, and reduced water availability. Communities in Bhutan, Pakistan, and Nepal face significant risks to life and economic stability, disrupting rural labor and livelihoods. These challenges necessitate innovative, sustainable solutions, especially in regenerative and climate-friendly practices.
ICIMOD has responded by initiating a climate-proofing concept for the mountain tourism landscape through field schools and policy development. These approaches are connecting communities to policy, where lessons and experiences from the field inform policy development.
The field school aims to enhance awareness of ecological, social, and governance issues while promoting regenerative and climate-friendly tourism practices. It seeks to empower communities by improving their decision-making and skills to attract mindful travellers, strengthen green tourism linkages, and preserve cultural and natural heritage, while anchoring initiatives to address the impacts of climate change in the industry. This initiative is integrated into policy practices through the development of regulatory guidance, policy briefs, and training resources to support the implementation of sustainable tourism practices and mitigate climate change impacts in the industry.
Reference:
Carriedo V, Lama A, Basnet A, and Gurung K (26, September 2025). Through policy, practice, and regional collaboration:catalysing climate-proofed tourism in the HKH. ICIMOD. Retrieved January 11, 2026, from https://blog.icimod.org/resilient-economies-landscapes/climate-proofing-mountain-tourism/
