Eastern Himalayas

People and wildlife of the Himalayas form a rich mosaic of life across this rugged and remarkable landscape.

But the region is being hit hard by climate change: farmers are seeing their crops suffer from a shifting monsoon season and lack of winter precipitation. Mountain glaciers – the source of freshwater for more than a billion people – are melting away, and villagers live in fear of devastating floods from glacier lakes prone to bursting.

The effects of climate change have become a daily reality for communities in the Eastern Himalayas, whose livelihoods and traditions depend upon the stability of the area’s natural resources.

Within this land of high snow-capped peaks, forests, mighty rivers and grasslands live amazing animals such as snow leopards, red pandas, river dolphins, tigers, elephants and rhinos. Threatened by human actions such as poaching, habitat destruction, and pollution, these species face additional stress with climate change.  

WWF is tackling these challenges by working on-the-ground with local communities and governments to implement innovative ways for people to adapt to climate change while protecting wildlife and their habitats.

Our Work:

Managing Water Scarcity
WWF is helping communities adapt to water scarcity through simple, low-cost methods such as rainwater harvesting and conservation ponds. We’re also helping farmers adapt to climate change by supporting Farmer Schools and establishment of seed banks.  Learn more

Fighting Back Against the Floods
Melting glaciers feed into Bhutan’s Lake Thorthormi. As the lake swells, the potential builds for a massive flood that would destroy the surrounding communities. WWF is working with others to accomplish the extraordinary task of lowering the lake’s water level by 15 feet—by hand.  Learn more

Tackling Climate Change Impacts
WWF is offering its expertise to help regional leaders address the urgent issues related to climate change.  Learn more

Learn more about our work on climate change