Reducing residential carbon emissions: An opportunity for Nepal
As Nepal’s cities grow and its economy accelerates, the country faces a pressing challenge: managing the carbon footprint of its residential buildings. With a bold ambition to achieve net-zero emissions by 2045, Nepal’s current strategies reveal a significant gap between national aspirations and actionable local policies. Recent research sheds light on this disparity and offers actionable strategies to address the issue effectively. Understanding and addressing these challenges can set Nepal on a path toward a more sustainable future, balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship.
Nepal’s rapid urbanization has resulted in a dramatic increase in carbon emissions, particularly in urban areas. A recent study (Paneru et al. 2024) that integrates data from the National Statistics Office with emissions research models three scenarios for emissions reduction: maintaining the current optimized level, achieving a 50% reduction, and targeting a 75% reduction.
The findings are illuminating. Bagmati Province, which includes Kathmandu and other major urban centers, exhibits the highest levels of embodied emissions. In contrast, Karnali Province, with its more rural landscape, has the lowest emissions. This stark divide underscores the urgent need for region-specific policies. Urban areas are found to be three times more carbon-intensive than rural regions. This difference highlights the importance of focusing efforts on cities, where the construction practices have significantly evolved. The shift from traditional building materials, such as mud and clay, to more carbon-intensive options like reinforced concrete (RC) has been a major factor. The proliferation of RC buildings, especially since the 1980s, driven by remittances from overseas workers, has compounded the problem. This shift has not only increased the carbon footprint of new constructions but also intensified the challenges of managing emissions in rapidly growing urban areas.
To understand the current situation, it is important to consider Nepal’s construction history. For centuries, traditional materials such as stone and timber were commonly used in building practices. The introduction of Portland cement in the 19th century revolutionized construction, making concrete and mass-produced bricks more prevalent. While this shift has brought advancements in building safety and affordability, it has also significantly contributed to the embodied carbon emissions of buildings. The impact of these materials is further complicated by the need for seismic resilience. The 2015 earthquake necessitated stricter building codes to ensure safety, particularly in urban areas with high-density construction. These codes have led to an increased reliance on cement and concrete, exacerbating the carbon footprint of new buildings. Balancing the need for seismic resilience with environmental sustainability is a complex challenge but one that must be addressed to align with Nepal’s climate goals.
By addressing the emissions disparity between urban and rural areas and implementing targeted, region-specific policies, the country can make significant progress toward its carbon neutrality goals.
The study emphasizes the need for targeted policy interventions to address the gap between national targets and local practices. Nepal’s current policies, while progressive, have not been sufficient to curb emissions from residential buildings effectively. To align with the national goal of net-zero emissions by 2045, the following strategic approaches are recommended:
Adopt Green Building Standards: Implementing and enforcing green building standards is crucial for reducing residential emissions. Countries like India have successfully used standards such as LEED and GRIHA to promote eco-friendly construction practices. Nepal could benefit from developing similar standards that address aspects like green infrastructure, energy efficiency, and zero-energy buildings. Such standards would encourage the use of sustainable materials and practices, driving significant reductions in emissions.
Leverage Technology: Promoting the adoption of zero-carbon technologies through pilot projects and innovation can inspire broader use. For instance, initiatives similar to successful projects in China could be implemented in Nepal to advance low-carbon technologies in residential construction. Raising awareness and fostering innovation in green technologies will be crucial for driving market demand and encouraging widespread adoption.
Improve Energy Efficiency: Enhancing energy efficiency is both an economic and environmental win. By promoting the use of energy-efficient appliances and materials, Nepal can reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Educating homeowners about the benefits of energy efficiency and incentivizing the adoption of energy-saving technologies can drive market-driven innovation and contribute to significant emissions reductions.
Encourage Low-Carbon Materials: Incentivizing the use of low-carbon materials can accelerate the development of zero-carbon housing. Investment in research and development for green technologies, coupled with the creation of a market for low-carbon products, will foster sustainable construction practices. Supporting the use of materials with lower embodied carbon can significantly reduce the carbon footprint of new buildings.
Adopt Circular Economy Principles: Transitioning to a circular economy can help manage waste and recover valuable materials. This approach involves designing buildings and construction processes with sustainability in mind, focusing on resource efficiency and waste reduction. By integrating circular economy principles into construction practices, Nepal can enhance sustainability and reduce the environmental impact of its building sector.
Utilize Green Finance: Addressing the investment gap in green buildings requires exploring green finance options such as carbon offsets and pricing. Encouraging households to invest in carbon offsets and implementing carbon pricing mechanisms can support sustainable infrastructure projects and drive down emissions. Green finance can provide the necessary resources to support the transition to low-carbon construction and drive long-term sustainability.
Nepal is at a crucial juncture, with the opportunity to shape its future through sustainable construction practices. By addressing the emissions disparity between urban and rural areas and implementing targeted, region-specific policies, the country can make significant progress toward its carbon neutrality goals. The insights from the recent study offer a roadmap for policymakers to develop effective strategies that balance economic growth, urban development, and environmental stewardship.
The path forward involves more than just policy adjustments; it requires a commitment to innovative practices and technologies that will define Nepal’s environmental legacy for generations to come. Embracing sustainable building practices and addressing the carbon footprint of residential construction is not merely a necessity but a pivotal opportunity to lead by example in the global fight against climate change.
The proliferation of RC buildings, especially since the 1980s, driven by remittances from overseas workers, has compounded the problem.
In addition to policy measures and technological advancements, community engagement and education play a vital role in reducing residential carbon emissions. Raising awareness about the environmental impact of building practices and promoting sustainable choices among homeowners and builders can drive behavioral changes that contribute to emissions reductions. Community programs that educate residents about the benefits of green construction, energy efficiency, and low-carbon materials can foster a culture of sustainability and support the adoption of environmentally friendly practices.
Reducing residential carbon emissions in Nepal is a complex but achievable goal. By adopting green building standards, leveraging technology, promoting energy efficiency, encouraging low-carbon materials, and embracing circular economy principles, Nepal can make significant strides toward its carbon neutrality targets. The findings from the study underscore the potential for substantial emissions reductions and highlight the need for targeted policies and innovative practices. As Nepal continues to evolve, the choices made today will shape its environmental legacy for years to come, offering a model for sustainable development in the face of global climate challenges.
[Paneru, expert in Thermal Resilience, Decarbonization, and Machine Learning, is a Research Fellow at Department of Architectural Engineering, Penn State University, USA. Available at [email protected]. Ghimire, expert in Artificial Intelligence, Innovative Project Delivery Methods, Resilient Built Environment, and Digital Technologies, is a Ph.D. Candidate at Durham School of Architectural Engineering and Construction, University of Nebraska Lincoln, USA. Available at [email protected] ]