In Nepal, a eucalyptus boom became an ecological cautionary tale

The Sagarnath Forest Development Project in Nepal introduced eucalyptus as a solution for deforestation, but it led to soil depletion, crop damage, and financial losses for farmers. The project’s failure highlights the importance of considering ecological sustainability and informed decision-making in reforestation efforts. Large-scale exotic tree plantations are now prohibited under national and international biodiversity laws. Experts emphasize the need to prioritize native species for reforestation to avoid negative ecological and social impacts.

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