Understanding Climate Change: Climate change is a phenomenon characterized by long-term alterations in weather patterns and average temperatures. Primarily driven by human activities, such as the burning of fossil fuels and deforestation, climate change results in the release of greenhouse gases that trap heat within the Earth's atmosphere, leading to a warming planet and disruptive climatic conditions.

Implacts in Himalayan Region: The Himalayan regions are disproportionately impacted by climate change due to their sensitivity to temperature changes, glacial retreat, changes in hydrological patterns, increased frequency of natural disasters, and the vulnerability of local communities and livelihoods. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the global average surface temperature has risen by about 1.1 degrees Celsius since the pre-industrial era. The rate of global temperature increase is approximately 0.2 degrees Celsius per decade. In the Himalayas, temperatures have risen by around 1.5 degrees Celsius over the past century, surpassing the global average. Rising temperatures disrupt fragile ecosystems, accelerate glacial melting, and affect the availability of freshwater resources. Erratic rainfall patterns and intense rainfall events lead to water scarcity and an increased risk of floods. Indigenous and marginalized communities dependent on agriculture and natural resources are particularly vulnerable. 

Negative Impacts on Tsum Valley: Nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas in Nepal, Tsum Valley is a hidden gem cherished for its rich cultural heritage, serene landscapes, and ancient monasteries. However, this tranquil valley is not impervious to the pervasive effects of climate change. As global temperatures rise, glaciers recede, and extreme weather events become increasingly frequent, Tsum Valley and its neighbouring Himalayan regions face a multitude of challenges that threaten their delicate ecosystems and communities. In this article, we will delve deeper into the implications of climate change on Tsum Valley and explore the proactive efforts undertaken by the resilient Tsumba community to mitigate its profound effects.
Tsum Valley's unique ecosystem and its reliance on agriculture and tourism make it particularly susceptible to climate change. Erratic rainfall patterns, shorter and unpredictable winters, and shifting temperatures disrupt the traditional farming practices that form the backbone of the local economy. These alterations in climate conditions have far-reaching implications, affecting not only the livelihoods of the Tsumba people but also the biodiversity of the valley. Furthermore, the accelerated melting of glaciers poses a long-term threat to the valley's water security, potentially destabilizing the delicate balance of its ecosystems. Some major impacts are:

1. Increased frequency of natural disasters: Climate change contributes to the increased occurrence and severity of natural disasters such as landslides and floods. Rising temperatures can lead to the melting of glaciers and increased rainfall, which in turn increase the risk of landslides and flash floods in mountainous regions. These disasters pose a threat to human lives, infrastructure, and the natural environment, disrupting the balance of ecosystems and biodiversity. Tsum Valley has  witnessed the intensification of climate change impacts. Two significant events that highlight the vulnerability of the region are the yearly floods in Chule Village and the recent massive landslide in the Lokpa area.
   
   PC: Chule Youth Group
   
   The yearly floods in Chule Village have become a recurring threat, posing a danger to the entire village. These floods, likely exacerbated by changing rainfall patterns and melting glaciers, have reached alarming levels, necessitating the consideration of relocating the entire village to safer grounds. The frequency and severity of these floods not only endanger human lives but also disrupt infrastructure and agricultural activities, undermining the stability and sustainability of the community.
   
   
   PC: Tsering Gyurmey
   Moreover, the massive landslide in the Lokpa area had severe consequences for Tsum Valley. This landslide blocked the main access route to the valley, cutting off vital supplies and isolating the community for months. The landslide's occurrence can be attributed to the destabilizing effects of climate change, such as increased rainfall and soil erosion. The isolation caused by this event highlights the region's vulnerability to natural disasters, which can have far-reaching economic, social, and environmental impacts.

2. Changes in rainfall and snowfall patterns: Climate change disrupts traditional rainfall and snowfall patterns, leading to irregular precipitation. This variability in rainfall and snowfall affects the availability of water resources, which are crucial for agriculture, livestock, and overall ecosystem health. Changes in precipitation patterns can lead to droughts or floods, impacting the biodiversity of plant and animal species that depend on specific moisture levels for survival. The winter of 2022 had very less snowfall as it is rare to have such little snowfall during the peak winter. 

3. Rising temperatures: Increasing temperatures due to climate change have numerous impacts on biodiversity. Higher temperatures can disrupt the delicate balance of ecosystems and lead to shifts in the distribution and abundance of plant and animal species. It can also result in the loss of habitat for vulnerable species, including those that hold cultural and spiritual significance within the Shagya culture.

4. Changing lifestyles and traditional practices: Climate change necessitates adaptations in traditional lifestyles and practices. The changing climate conditions may affect agricultural calendars, forcing communities to modify planting and harvesting times or shift to different crops. This disrupts traditional knowledge and practices that have been developed over generations and can erode cultural heritage and values.

5. Migration and unpredictable agriculture: Climate change impacts agricultural productivity, making farming practices more challenging and uncertain. Unpredictable rainfall patterns and extreme weather events can result in crop failures and reduced agricultural yields, leading to food insecurity and economic hardships. In response, communities may be forced to migrate in search of alternative livelihoods, disrupting social structures and traditional ways of life.

6. Negative impact on Yarsa gumbu harvest: Yarsa gumbu (Ophiocordyceps sinensis), also known as the caterpillar fungus, is a valuable medicinal resource that grows in the high-altitude regions where the Shagya culture is prevalent. However, climate change is impacting the growth and availability of Yarsa gumbu. Changes in temperature and precipitation patterns can disrupt the natural habitat of the fungus, affecting its growth and diminishing its harvest. This has economic implications for local communities who rely on Yarsa gumbu as a source of income and traditional medicine.

How Tsum Valley’s indigenous practice contribute to mitigate climate change.

PC: Tsering Gyurmey

1. Prohibition of Killing and Preservation of Natural Biodiversity: The Shagya tradition holds a deep respect for all living beings and promotes the preservation of natural biodiversity. This cultural practice plays a crucial role in mitigating the effects of climate change. By prohibiting the killing of animals and promoting a harmonious coexistence with nature, it helps maintain the delicate balance of ecosystems. This approach contributes to the preservation of biodiversity by preventing the loss of key species and their habitats, ultimately supporting the overall health and resilience of the local environment.

2. Religious and Cultural Practices that Indirectly Promote Environmental Protection: Religious and cultural practices in the region often incorporate principles of environmental protection. These practices instill a sense of reverence and responsibility towards nature, further contributing to climate change mitigation efforts. For example, rituals and ceremonies involve offerings and prayers to natural elements like water, trees, and mountains, highlighting the interconnectedness between humans and the environment. By fostering a sense of environmental stewardship, these practices indirectly promote sustainable behaviors and encourage the conservation of natural resources.

3. Community Forests to Avoid Excessive Deforestation: Community forests play a vital role in mitigating climate change in the region. The establishment and management of these forests involve the collective efforts of the local community. Community forests also provide valuable ecosystem services, such as soil conservation, water regulation, and habitat for biodiversity. The sustainable management of these forests helps prevent excessive deforestation, reduces carbon emissions, and contributes to the overall resilience of the ecosystem.

4. Sustainable Agricultural Practices: Avoiding Pesticides and Insecticides: The Tsumba community embraces sustainable agricultural practices that avoids the use of harmful chemicals such as pesticides and insecticides. Instead, they rely on organic farming methods, including traditional techniques like crop rotation, natural pest control, and composting. By avoiding the use of synthetic chemicals, the community reduces the negative environmental impact associated with conventional agriculture. This approach helps maintain soil health, preserve water quality, protect beneficial insects, and promote overall ecosystem balance. Sustainable agricultural practices contribute to climate change mitigation by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, preserving soil carbon content, and promoting biodiversity.

5. Zero Pollution and Local Food Consumption: Tsum Valley's geographical isolation limits the use of vehicles and reduces carbon emissions from transportation. The community primarily consumed locally grown food, minimizing the carbon footprint associated with long-distance transportation. This practice reduces energy consumption and supports local farmers, reinforcing sustainable food production and consumption patterns. Additionally, the use of donkeys and mules for transportation reduces reliance on motorized vehicles, further minimizing pollution and carbon emissions. By adopting these practices, the community significantly contributes to mitigating climate change and fosters a more sustainable and environmentally conscious way of life.

These local mitigating strategies employed by the Tsumba community highlight the importance of cultural and traditional practices in combating climate change. By integrating environmental protection into their customs and daily activities, the community demonstrates a deep understanding of the interconnectedness between human well-being and the health of the natural environment. These practices serve as valuable examples for broader climate change mitigation efforts and emphasize the significance of indigenous knowledge in building a sustainable future.