Kathmandu: Nepal has received USD 9.4 million (Rs 1.19 billion) from the World Bank’s Forest Carbon Partnership Facility (FCPF) for reducing around 1.88 million tons of carbon dioxide under its REDD+ Emission Reductions Program in the Terai Arc Landscape.

This marks the first payment under the FCPF’s Emission Reductions Payment Agreement (ERPA), a significant milestone in Nepal’s efforts to curb deforestation and strengthen sustainable forest management, the World Bank said in a statement.

Community-Based Forestry at the Core
The FCPF programme in Nepal is anchored in a strong community-based approach to sustainable forestry. Operating across the Terai Arc Landscape — an area rich in biodiversity and densely populated — the initiative involves local communities, Indigenous Peoples, and civil society groups in forest protection, restoration, and livelihood improvement.

Recognition of Nepal’s Conservation Progress
“This milestone payment is testament to Nepal’s success in reducing deforestation, strengthening forest governance, enhancing biodiversity conservation, and expanding sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities,” said David Sislen, World Bank Division Director for Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka.

Benefit Sharing to Reach Local Communities
According to the World Bank, the payment will be distributed under Nepal’s Benefit Sharing Plan, developed through a participatory process involving consultations with local communities and stakeholders. The plan ensures that forest-dependent communities and Indigenous Peoples directly benefit from their conservation efforts.

Continued Support for Forest Restoration
Funds will support ongoing forest restoration, community-based enterprises, and climate-resilient livelihoods, reinforcing Nepal’s reputation as a global leader in community forestry and participatory resource management.

Government Reaffirms Commitment
“This results-based payment reflects the efforts and dedication of our forest-dependent communities, Indigenous Peoples, and the government in conserving and managing our forests. Nepal remains committed to advancing climate action through inclusive and community-led forest management,” said Dr. Rajendra Prasad Mishra, Secretary at the Ministry of Forests and Environment.