Conducting novel research on species, habitats and people: A key barrier to conservation in Nepal are the huge knowledge gaps about the species and places we seek to protect, and their relationships to human livelihoods, values and experiences. We conduct research on topics such as species distribution, threats to biodiversity, sustainable livelihoods and human-wildlife interactions, to help inform conservation practice.  

Informing resource management plans: Improving on-the-ground conservation requires strong planning by local communities and government agencies–including through CITES Species Conservation Action Plans, Environmental Assessments, and Forest and Protected Area Management Plans. We support these processes with science, convening power and legal challenges to help ensure they balance conservation and development objectives.

Controlling illegal wildlife trade: Illegal wildlife trade is an intense threat to many species in Nepal, which is also an important transit country. We lead projects to monitor wildlife trade, and support local communities, transportation staff, customs officials, and law enforcement with training, information and behaviour change programs.

Communicating science for behaviour change: Conservation science often fails to reach and influence those who most affect policy and on-the-ground action. We work to ‘translate’ science to make it accessible and useful to policymakers, practitioners and the public. This includes developing policy briefs, radio programs, roundtable and panel discussions, podcasts, picture books, cartoons, music and arts to reach wide audiences. We also use our science to inform legal actions that drive legislative change and enhance public understanding.

Developing conservation capacity: Overcoming Nepal’s conservation challenges require a community of applied researchers, empowered to take action. We address the barriers facing early-career conservationists, helping them to build viable careers in this field. This includes training on topics like research methods, data analysis, remote sensing, monitoring and evaluation. We also provide long-term support through the  Nepal Conservation Research Fellowship.