Eastern Himalayan Naturenomics Forum 2024: Call for Action on Climate and Conservation

Eastern Himalayan Naturenomics Forum 2024: A Call for Global Action on Climate and Conservation

MAHABAHU DESK

Guwahati, Assam – The 12th edition of the Eastern Himalayan Naturenomics™ Forum, hosted by the Balipara Foundation, commenced on November 26, 2024, drawing attention to the pressing climate and ecological challenges faced by the “Third Pole” and the Eastern Himalayas.

This year’s theme, “The Future of the Third Pole & the Eastern Himalaya,” set the stage for transformative discussions, uniting over 80 leaders from 15 countries.

The forum spotlighted the region’s critical role in regulating global climate systems and supporting billions of lives across South and Southeast Asia.

Inaugural Insights

The forum opened with prominent voices from the corporate and conservation sectors. Kaizad Bharucha, Deputy Managing Director of HDFC Bank Ltd., linked climate action to economic resilience, highlighting the disproportionate impact of climate change on vulnerable populations. “For India to realize its $30 trillion economic vision, environmental and social sustainability must be integral,” he urged.

Sourav Roy, CEO of Tata Steel Foundation, emphasized the invaluable role of indigenous communities in conservation. “Indigenous wisdom holds answers we must uncover,” Roy said, noting the deep connection between indigenous identities and nature.

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Her Royal Highness Queen Diambi Kabatusuila of the Bakwa Luntu tribe called for a paradigm shift in global conservation, advocating a return to indigenous systems and sacred respect for all life. “It is not a lack of abundance but a failure of distribution. Indigenous wisdom can guide us toward equitable and sustainable conservation models,” she declared.

Key Themes and Discussions

The two-day event featured an array of panels, workshops, and university sessions, delving into:

• Natural Capital and ESG Regulations: Valuing ecosystems to encourage sustainable investments.
• Renewable Energy Transition: Strategies to accelerate adoption in the region.
• Water Security and Watershed Management: Local solutions for global challenges.
• Youth and Sustainability: Mobilizing young leaders to create nature-positive economies.
• Biodiversity Goals: Progress toward the Kunming-Montreal target of protecting 30% of global ecosystems by 2030.

A special panel celebrated the 50th anniversary of The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI), underscoring its pivotal role in advancing sustainable development in the Third Pole and beyond.

The Role of the Third Pole

Known as the “Third Pole” due to its vast glacial reserves, the Eastern Himalayas are vital for regional water security and climate stability. The forum highlighted the alarming pace of glacial melting and its cascading effects on billions dependent on these water systems.

Ranjit Barthakur, Founder of the Balipara Foundation, underscored the global significance of the Third Pole. “Advocating for the Third Pole on the world stage is crucial to ensuring the survival of not just South Asia, but our planet,” he said.

Grassroots Leadership and Indigenous Voices

The forum also celebrated grassroots conservation heroes. Karunakaran Reddy of Igniting Minds shared the impact of the Walk for Water initiative, which has constructed over 15,000 rainwater harvesting structures and revived 5,000 dried borewells through youth-led efforts. “Youth are our greatest agents of change,” Reddy said, emphasizing the need for robust policies to sustain these initiatives.

Dr. Purnima Devi Barman, Ruma Devi, and other grassroots leaders shared success stories, reinforcing the forum’s mission to amplify local voices for global impact.

Global Partnerships for Local Challenges

Rituraj Phukan, moderator of the press interactions, reflected on the forum’s unique ability to unite global and regional perspectives. “This platform bridges the global urgency with local action, inspiring solutions tailored to the region’s needs,” he noted.

International participants, including Lord Nicholas Stern, Chair of the Grantham Research Institute at the London School of Economics, and Spencer Low, Regional Sustainability Head of Google Asia Pacific, brought valuable insights on integrating technology and policy into climate action.

Looking Ahead

The forum concludes on November 27 with discussions on climate-resilient agriculture, waste management, and strategies to eliminate rural plastic waste. The event will culminate with the prestigious Balipara Foundation Awards, honoring 14 grassroots leaders for their contributions to restoring the biocultural heritage of the Eastern Himalayas.

The 12th Eastern Himalayan Naturenomics™ Forum is a resounding call for collaborative, inclusive, and urgent action. By bridging indigenous wisdom, grassroots efforts, and global expertise, the forum aims to chart a sustainable future for the Third Pole and beyond, emphasizing that the survival of these fragile ecosystems is not just a regional priority but a global imperative.

26-11-2024

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