RANIBARI COMMUNITY FOREST - A BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION LEARNING CENTRE AT KATHMANDU VALLEY, NEPAL
With the support of BirdLife International Tokyo and other organizations, Bird Conservation Nepal (BCN) is running Biodiversity Conservation Learning Center at Ranibari Community Forest (RCF), Kathmandu.
Ranibari Community Forest: RCF is located at the north western part of the Kathmandu Metropolitan City, is one of the few remaining natural forest patches. This is probably one and only community forest in urban setting of Nepal. The forest is floristically rich for native plant species as well as for home for many migratory and residential birds. The 6.95 hectare area of forest is surrounded by dense human settlements. Since there are no other open areas and parks in vicinity it receives tremendous pressure as a recreational site and large number of people visits the community forests every day. One of the main issues underlying this problem is the inadequate awareness and understanding among the public and decision-makers about the value of a clean, green environment for urban residents and importance of nature conservation. Thus RCF can be developed as a model biodiversity conservation learning center that will benefit the local people and students of Kathmandu and adjacent cities like Patan and Bhaktapur.
Objectives of the project
Main objective is to conserve the urban biodiversity managing the RCF as model forest for bird and biodiversity conservation learning center. The specific objectives are as below:
To achieve the proposed objectives following activities were undertaken:
The Learning Center has reached over 2,000 students from over 50 schools, trained university graduates, tourism professionals, and teaching staff, and created educational materials like workbooks, brochures, bird guides, and more. Through interactive outdoor learning experiences, students and visitors can directly engage with nature and gain practical knowledge of biodiversity conservation. Special education programs have also been organized for students with disabilities, promoting inclusivity in environmental education. With various activities integrated into the school curriculum, the center provides an invaluable opportunity for young learners to connect with nature, fostering a deeper understanding of environmental science, mathematics, and literature. The initiative not only benefits local schools but also contributes to the broader community by encouraging eco-friendly attitudes and behaviours.