Nepal, known for its landscapes and rich cultural heritage, has long been a sought-after destination for travellers seeking adventure, natural beauty and spiritual experiences. From the peaks of the Himalayas to the streets of Kathmandu, the country offers a unique and diverse experience. However, the rapid growth in tourism has begun to strain the resources that make Nepal such an appealing destination—its natural environment and cultural heritage. Sustainable tourism presents an opportunity for Nepal to manage these pressures, enabling the sector to drive economic growth while preserving the country’s environmental and cultural assets for the long term.

A Double-Edged Sword

Tourism is both a blessing and a curse for Nepal. On one hand, it provides much-needed revenue and employment opportunities. On the other hand, the sector's rapid growth has resulted in several sustainability challenges. According to the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), the number of international visitors has risen sharply, reaching over 1.2 million in 2019 alone, contributing approximately 7.9% to Nepal’s GDP. The number dropped due to COVID-19 pandemic is now close to reaching the pre-COVID levels.

The sector not only supports thousands of jobs but also plays a crucial role in preserving Nepal’s unique cultural and natural heritage. However, this all comes at a cost. Environmental degradation, over-tourism and insufficient sustainable practices have put immense pressure on the country’s natural resources. Deforestation, waste accumulation and strain on water resources are just a few of the pressing issues. The rising number of trekkers to the Everest region, for example, has led to waste accumulation, including human waste, plastic, and discarded equipment in the high Himalayan region. The Khumbu region, once pristine, is now referred to as “the world’s highest garbage dump”, with nearly 85 tonnes of waste collected from the Everest base camp alone in spring of 2024. Such statistics underscore the need for a paradigm shift in how tourism is managed.

Tourism and Sustainability

The concept of sustainable tourism is not unique to Nepal; it is a global movement. As more destinations worldwide grapple with the impacts of mass tourism, there has been a growing push to develop and implement sustainable tourism practices. Countries such as Japan and Indonesia are leading the charge in promoting eco-friendly travel. In Japan, for example, eco-tourism initiatives have been integrated into many regions, offering visitors the chance to experience traditional culture while respecting the local culture and environment. Likewise, Indonesia has implemented strict regulations on waste management and conservation efforts in popular tourist hotspots like Bali, aiming to reduce plastic waste and protect fragile ecosystems.

The global community has recognised that tourism must contribute positively to both local communities and the environment. This has resulted in policies promoting sustainable tourism development, eco-certifications for businesses, and innovations in waste reduction and resource management. Nepal, with its rich natural resources and cultural heritage, has the potential to become a leader in sustainable tourism. But the country must act decisively to overcome its challenges.

Why Sustainability Is Nepal’s Tourism Future

Sustainable tourism, particularly in the context of Nepal, involves balancing the economic benefits of tourism with the preservation of the country’s cultural and natural resources. It encompasses practices that minimise environmental impact, empower local communities and ensure that tourism benefits are long-lasting and widely distributed. Local communities in Nepal can benefit significantly from sustainable tourism. By promoting community-based tourism initiatives, such as those seen in the Annapurna Conservation Area, local residents can gain direct benefits from tourism, whether through employment, guiding services or the sale of local products. This empowerment leads to a stronger commitment to preserving the environment and cultural traditions, as these are directly tied to the community's livelihoods.

From an environmental standpoint, sustainable tourism practices reduce pollution and waste. In Nepal, initiatives like the collection of waste at Everest Base Camp, the promotion of eco-friendly trekking practices, and the enforcement of waste disposal regulations are successful examples of how tourism can be harmonised with environmental preservation. Furthermore, by attracting eco-conscious travellers, Nepal can diversify its tourism offerings, drawing visitors who are willing to pay a premium for responsible travel experiences.

Learning from Nepal’s Green Tourism Pioneers

Several initiatives have already set the stage for expansion of sustainable tourism in Nepal. The Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), for example, has been lauded as one of the world’s most successful conservation efforts, balancing the needs of local communities with environmental protection. The project’s community-based approach has empowered local residents to engage in sustainable tourism practices, resulting in better waste management, wildlife protection and environmental conservation. Similarly, community-run eco-lodges and homestays in regions like the Khumbu and Gosaikunda are demonstrating how tourism can directly contribute to conservation efforts while providing an authentic experience for travelers.

The government has also shown increasing commitment to promoting sustainable tourism. The government has implemented policies such as the requirement for climbers to return with at least 8 kg of garbage from Everest, and the collection of a $4,000 garbage deposit to encourage responsible behaviour. However, these efforts need to be scaled and supported by stronger enforcement mechanisms to ensure their success.

Profiting from Green Tourism

As sustainability gains momentum in Nepal’s tourism sector, numerous opportunities will open up for businesses and investors. Eco-resorts, sustainable trekking agencies, and green-certified accommodations offer lucrative prospects for those looking to tap into the growing demand for responsible travel. In particular, eco-lodges and resorts in the Annapurna and Langtang regions have become popular among travellers seeking to reduce their environmental footprint while enjoying the Himalayan landscape.

Digital platforms also offer innovative solutions to promote responsible travel. Platforms that allow travellers to book eco-friendly accommodations, support community-based tourism initiatives, and offset their carbon footprints can be a game-changer for Nepal’s tourism sector. There is also potential for green investments in renewable energy solutions, such as solar-powered lodges or waste-to-energy projects, which could revolutionise how tourism infrastructure operates in remote areas.

Building a Sustainable Tourism Model for Nepal

To enhance sustainable tourism, Nepal must strengthen policies and regulations that support eco-tourism. This includes establishing eco-tourism zones, enforcing waste management practices, and ensuring that tourism revenue is reinvested into local communities and conservation efforts. Additionally, community participation in tourism planning and decision-making is crucial. Local voices must be heard, as they hold invaluable knowledge about the region’s ecological and cultural needs.

Innovation and partnerships will also play a key role. Nepal should embrace green technologies, such as drone waste management systems used in Everest, which reduce human exposure to dangerous areas like the Khumbu Icefall. Drones, as tested by the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality in partnership with DJI, have proven to be effective in transporting supplies and removing garbage in high-altitude regions, reducing the risks faced by Sherpas and mountaineers. Furthermore, collaboration with international partners, businesses and investors can bring in the necessary resources and expertise to build a robust sustainable tourism infrastructure.

Conclusion

Nepal’s breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage are treasures worth preserving. By embracing sustainable tourism practices, the country can create a tourism model that benefits both its economy and environment. The path to sustainable tourism is full of challenges as over-tourism, environmental degradation and resource depletion are our pressing concerns. However, by learning from successful examples both within Nepal and globally, strengthening policies and fostering innovation, Nepal has the opportunity to lead the way in responsible tourism. Through concerted efforts from businesses, government and local communities, Nepal’s tourism industry can thrive while safeguarding its natural beauty and cultural integrity for generations to come.

(Malla is a Research Analyst at Business Brainz, a global business research and insight firm operating from Nepal.)

(This opinion article was originally published in  January 2025 issue  of New Business Age Magazine.)