Zonta Club of Kathmandu and Jane Goodall Institute Nepal join forces for tree plantation campaign

In the lead-up to World Environment Day and in support of Sustainable Development Goal 5, the Zonta Club of Kathmandu, Nepal, in collaboration with the Jane Goodall Institute Nepal (JGIN), launched a purposeful tree plantation initiative on 1 June to highlight the vital link between climate change and gender inequality.

As part of this effort, more than 165 native trees were planted in Dhunge Dhara, Lalitpur, using a Japanese plantation technique designed to simulate a self-sustaining mini forest. The land was made available by the government’s Metropolitan Office, and the project was supported by local community leaders and the ward office.

Each tree was personally sponsored by Zonta club members, reflecting a shared commitment to climate action and community-led sustainability. Carefully selected native plant species—chosen for their ability to grow rapidly and replenish groundwater—will help restore biodiversity, improve air and soil quality, and create a natural habitat for local flora and fauna.

“This is more than just planting trees,” said Bina Rana, President of the Zonta Club Kathmandu. “It’s a symbolic and practical act of environmental justice. In a changing climate, every tree planted is a promise for a healthier, more resilient future. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to advancing gender equality and climate justice, recognizing that women and girls are disproportionately affected by environmental challenges.”

The event was led by Luja Mathema, Chair of Zonta’s Gender-Equal Climate Action Committee, and Malika Rana, Chair of Gender Equality and Social Inclusion, with strong support from JGIN and local volunteers.

This initiative is part of Zonta International’s “Zonta Says NOW” campaign, which emphasizes the need for gender-equal climate action and recognizes the climate crisis as a human rights issue.

“Every little act makes a difference,” added Shristi Singh Bhandari, Executive of Jane Goodall Institute Nepal. “We are proud to partner with the Zonta Club of Kathmandu in supporting urban reforestation and community-led environmental stewardship.”

The creation of this urban mini forest is expected to bring back native birds and insects—such as fireflies—that have nearly disappeared from urban areas due to rapid loss of greenery and water sources. Moreover, the plantation will directly benefit around 50 nearby households, or approximately 600 residents, by reducing urban heat, improving air quality, and enhancing the surrounding ecosystem.

To ensure the long-term success of the project, JGIN has partnered with the local ward office to manage maintenance and community engagement. The initiative aligns with JGIN’s core values of Compassion, Conservation and Collective Action, while making a lasting contribution to Nepal’s urban biodiversity.