Bamboo Conference from March 27, NRB Governor calls for its use for green economy

KATHMANDU: Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) Governor Maha Prasad Adhikari has highlighted the potential of bamboo in promoting a green economy and creating an environmentally friendly atmosphere.

During his address at a programme to share details about the upcoming First National Bamboo Conference, scheduled from March 27 to Feb 1 in Diktel, Khotang, the central bank’s governor stressed the need of a green economy for sustainable economic growth.

He stated that the decision to host the conference in Diktel, rather than in an urban centre, presents a challenge to urban-centric events and encourages a broader, more inclusive perspective.

Governor Adhikari expressed his hope that the Bamboo Conference would set a new precedent for promoting the green economy. He committed to supporting, both officially and personally, the production, use, and export of bamboo products.

Former Minister Ganesh Shah, also speaking at the event, emphasized the Conference’s potential to boost bamboo-based industries.

He added that bamboo plays a significant role in Nepal’s religion, culture, tradition, and small-scale industries, and that it is a versatile product with numerous uses.

Dr Rajendra KC, Director General of the Forest Research and Training Centre, said Nepal’s bamboo could be marketed internationally under the ‘Himalayan Bamboo Brand.’ He further stated that the Conference would be a productive step toward achieving this goal.

Dr. KC also added that the use of bamboo is increasing in rural areas for practical purposes, while in urban areas, it is more of a trend.

Nepal is home to 81 species of bamboo. The country accounts for 19 percent of the global bamboo coverage.

Pradeep Dangal, a representative from Green Bamboo Creation Pvt. Ltd., stressed that bamboo is a fast-growing plant, and promoting its production and use could contribute to economic prosperity. Bamboo products, being entirely environmentally friendly, are alternatives to plastic items.

Dangal also added that bamboo is deeply ingrained in Nepali society, used in various cultural and practical contexts, from birth to death. Additionally, bamboo plays a crucial role in balancing oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere, he said.

According to Diktel municipality mayor Tirtha Raj Bhattarai, the Conference will be attended by representatives from government and non-government agencies, 100 forest users’ groups, 50 universities and research centers and 100 students.

The event will be held under the theme of “Where there is bamboo, there is life; where is life, there is bamboo”.