Cryospheric Society of Nepal (CSN) is set to host an insightful workshop titled "Connecting the dots: Climate change, cryosphere, and Community," on August 15-16, 2024. This two-day event will gather experts, researchers, and community leaders to explore the critical intersections between climate change and cryospheric science, emphasizing the impacts on mountain communities.
Day 1: Setting the Stage for Cryospheric Awareness
Opening Session:
The workshop will commence with a registration session at 9:00 AM, led by Mr. Darwin Rana. The formal inauguration will follow at 10:00 AM, featuring welcome remarks from Ms. Reeju Shrestha. Dr. Mohan Bahadur Chand will then introduce CSN and outline the workshop's objectives, setting a participatory tone with a participant survey.
Institutional Insights:
Alex Scoffield will provide an overview of the activities of the International Snow and Ice Foundation (ISF) and the University of Leeds. Following a tea break and group photo session, the day will dive into key presentations.
Key Presentations:
ICIMOD will highlight the significance of cryospheric science for mountain communities, followed by insights into hydrology and meteorology by DHM/TU. A historical perspective on cryospheric research in Nepal will be presented by representatives from KU/TU, concluding with an engaging Q&A session.
Interactive Group Activities:
Post-lunch, attendees will engage in an interactive session featuring real-world experiences in mountain environments shared by experts from Asian Trek, HRE, and Shangrila Treks. Group discussions will tackle topics such as local observations compared with scientific results, risks related to hydrology, challenges of climate change, impacts on mountaineering tourism and local livelihoods, and community migration. The day will conclude with group presentations and final remarks from CSN.
Day 2: Deepening Scientific Understanding and Practical Applications
Recap and Registration:
Day two will begin with a registration and tea session, followed by a recap of the previous day’s discussions, facilitated by CSN.
Scientific Insights:
The morning session will feature a series of scientific insights, starting with Prashant Baral from ICIMOD discussing geomorphology and permafrost. Arabindra Khadka will share experiences from installing weather stations on Everest, and Alex Scoffield will delve into the hazards of glacial lakes and the EverDrill project. A Q&A session will provide participants an opportunity to engage with the presenters.
Hands-on Demonstrations:
After lunch, practical demonstrations will take center stage. Rakesh Kayastha, Darwin, and Tenzing Sherpa will demonstrate the use of steam drills and other glaciological equipment. Chimi Seldon and Tenzing will discuss the IYGP and Save Our Snow initiatives. Participants will then have a hands-on interaction session focusing on meteorological forecasting at Everest, with DHM/TU/KU showcasing forecasting apps like the DHM bulletin and Windy.
Conclusion and Next Steps:
The workshop will conclude with a session dedicated to action planning and the next steps for collaboration, led by CSN. Participants will be invited to complete a post-workshop online survey via QR code. The event will end with a certificate distribution ceremony and closing remarks from CSN.
This workshop promises to be a cornerstone event for those engaged in the fields of cryospheric science and climate change, providing valuable knowledge, practical skills, and fostering a collaborative spirit among scientists, researchers, and community members. By connecting the dots between climate change, the cryosphere, and community impacts, CSN aims to enhance understanding and drive meaningful action in response to our changing world.