Julia Dines: Growth vs Conservation - how can trekking tourism in Nepal adapt to a sustainable future?

Julia Dines, BSc Environmental Science, joins us to discuss her research project "Growth vs Conservation - how can trekking tourism in Nepal adapt to a sustainable future?"AbstractThe Himalayas are facing an ultimatum: limit trekking or lose the beauty of the mountains to environmental degradation, water contamination and waste accumulation. This research project aims to identify ways in which stakeholders can adapt their practices to protect the Himalayas, and their livelihoods, against climate change and anthropogenic destruction. To address these complex issues, four key stakeholder groups were researched using a mixed- methods approach. Data was collected from tourists, tour companies, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and the Nepalese government using a variety of qualitative research methods including an online survey, semi-structured interviews and secondary data analysis. The findings reveal a critical gap between environmental awareness and the adoption of sustainable practices, underscoring the need for enhanced policy support and increased stakeholder collaboration. This research advances academic discourse on sustainable tourism and provides actionable recommendations to effectively safeguard the Himalayas against irreversible environmental damage. The fight against climate change is fundamental not only to protect the environment, but also to safeguard human health and the global economy. In an era of accelerating climate change, research into the world’s most vulnerable regions, such as the Himalayas, is crucial.Episode Guest: Julia Dines, BSc Environmental ScienceEpisode Host: Prof Simon KempProducer and Editor: Ellie Howell