The Himalayan Climate Boot Camp (HCBC) recently convened at Everest Base Camp, bringing together journalists, mentors, and government officials from Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, and Nepal.
The focus of this unique event was to delve into the effects of climate change in the region, particularly in the Everest and broader Himalayan area.
For the first time, a group of journalists embarked on an expedition to Everest Base Camp, aiming to witness and report directly from the ground.
Thirteen participants, including eight journalist fellows, two mentors, and three project team members, engaged in discussions about various aspects of climate change. They explored its impact on the lives and livelihoods of people in the Everest region.
Chhatra Karki, the project director, highlighted the unique opportunity for journalists to interact with climbers, guides, and local Sherpa communities. These interactions provided a holistic understanding of the socio-cultural and economic dimensions of climate change.
Under the guidance of their mentors, the journalist fellows will now develop story ideas based on the discussions held during the boot camp.
The HCBC-2024 was organized by the NFSJ (Nepal Forum for Sustainable Journalism) with support from the Spark Grant Initiative. Logistical partners included Seven Summit Treks, while knowledge partners comprised International Sherpa Guides, Sagarmatha Pollution Control Committee, Um Hong Gil Human Foundation, and SAS-Trust.
The HCBC serves as a crucial platform for fostering awareness, dialogue, and action on climate change in the Himalayan region.
