MetLife Foundation supports reforestation project in Chitwan National Park

KATHMANDU, July 2: MetLife Foundation has provided support for the large-scale reforestation led by the Arbor Day Foundation in Bachhauli, Nawalparasi. The project involved the planting of 5,000 trees to restore 294 acres of forest across the mountainous region along with the lowland alluvial plains surrounding Chitwan National Park.

The project was launched with the aim of developing a buffer zone to preserve and rehabilitate local biodiversity, improving local livelihoods, and restoring forests in areas of ecological significance.

Nepal's forests are home to various threatened and endangered wildlife species. Overharvesting, forest fires, and unplanned agricultural production have impacted the ecosystem surrounding Chitwan National Park. Environmental degradation has affected the local sustainability and livelihoods of rural communities, which has consequentially escalated the risk of natural disasters caused by climate change. 

The village of Bachhauli has seen an increase in population, resulting in the destruction of large swaths of forests, natural habitats, and land fertility. MetLife supported the Arbor Day Foundation and its planting partner Eden Reforestation Projects to combat these problems by planting trees in the Nawalparasi District.

Native tree species that provide benefits like soil anchoring and mudslide prevention were planted near the Park’s biodiversity buffer zone. The project followed a distinct three-phase cycle involving nursery development, seedling germination, and planting. Additionally, the project also focused on women's empowerment in the community by developing local women-led teams to initiate the local forestry program.

Vice President and General Manager of MetLife Nepal Nirmal Kajee Shrestha stated that biodiversity and natural resources were essential for combating climate change and environmental hazards. "This support from the MetLife Foundation shall help in preserving endangered species and rehabilitating their natural habitat for a sustainable future," he expressed his belief.