### Environment
Nepal’s environment is a study in extreme contrasts, ranging from the sub-tropical jungles of the Terai to the frozen peaks of the Himalayas.
* **Air Quality:** Kathmandu faces significant air quality challenges, especially during winter months (dry season) when geographical inversion traps vehicular emissions, dust, and agricultural smoke. PM2.5 levels can reach hazardous peaks. * **Protected Areas:** Over 23% of Nepal's total land area is protected. Notable parks include **Chitwan National Park** (famous for rhinos and tigers) and **Sagarmatha National Park** (home to Mount Everest), both UNESCO World Heritage sites. * **Community Forestry:** Nepal is a global pioneer in community-based forestry. Over 20,000 community forest user groups manage large tracts of woodland, successfully reversing deforestation trends of the 1970s and 80s. * **Climate Change:** As a mountainous, developing nation, Nepal is highly vulnerable to climate change. Melting glaciers and the risk of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) are pressing environmental concerns.