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 increase the level of knowledge of local people on bird, biodiversity and green environment conservation at RCF.
• To analyze how human influx and vegetation affects the distribution of birds in the urban gradients
• To strengthen bird, biodiversity and nature conservation education in schools and colleges.
• To encourage the general public and policy makers to promote bird habitat in urban areas.

To achieve the proposed objectives following activities were undertaken:

• Established and equipped the visitors learning centre.
• Developed inventory of bird, butterfly and plant. 
• Created and erected signs and information boards at key locations around the forest.
• Tagged the plants with common, scientific and local name.
• Developed and run the conservation education among the schools.
• Produced and disseminated relevant signage, brochures and leaflets.
• Conducted monthly bird monitoring at RCF and annual urban bird count at Kathmandu valley.
• Celebrated conservation days and events.
• Collaborated with universities to conduct research on urban wildlife conservation issues.

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.