Climate-Ecosystem-Society Nexus in the Hindu Kush Himalaya and South Asia

This paper examines the nexus of climate change, ecosystem services and socio-economic transformation in the ecologically sensitive and socio-economically vulnerable Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) and South Asia. It explores challenges like glacial retreat, biodiversity loss, pollution and deforestation and their impacts on agriculture, water security, displacement and inequalities. It underscores the limitations of development trajectories that neglect ecological sustainability and advocates for Forest and Ecosystem Restoration (FER) as a strategic solution. Exploring community-led initiatives and policy frameworks, the paper reviews and synthesizes a wide range of environmental trends, socio-economic impacts and potential solutions; highlighting the potential of integrated ecosystem management and regional cooperation to foster climate resilience, conserve biodiversity and enhance livelihoods. Ultimately, it proposes key policy recommendations centred on integrated approaches, trans-boundary governance, equitable restoration programs, capacity building and cross-sector policy alignment to achieve long-term environmental and socio-economic sustainability in the region.