Bighnaharta Nepal’s innovative bioengineering project is delivering important economic and ecological benefits to indigenous communities in central Nepal.
This is the third phase of an important project bringing together the JTI Foundation and local NGO Bighnaharta Nepal, building on the accomplishments of the previous two phases.
And its success is winning international recognition.
Bighnaharta’s past and present programs with the Foundation include two key elements. The first begins with the planting of broom grass, which improves the stability and quality of uncultivated soil, reducing the risks of flooding and landslides.
In the second, program participants are trained to use broom grass to manufacture (sweeping) brooms. Once sold, the proceeds provide an additional source of income for local people.
In this next phase, a similar approach will extend to other regions of rural Nepal. The introduction of a digital application will promote wider engagement – while other new elements include advocacy, workshops and the recycling of broom grass agro waste into the local paper manufacturing industry.
Bighnaharta’s holistic approach has won wide acclaim in major Nepalese media and beyond. The program has been selected for an award conferred jointly by the UNDP and Hyundai’s ‘For Tomorrow’ initiative, recognizing innovators working to create a more sustainable future.
OVER 20 YEARS OF INVESTMENT IN DISASTER MANAGEMENT INITIATIVES
Countries where we have supported our partners’ work in response to a growing range of threats to life and livelihood
Million USD invested since 2001 to help communities better prepare for – and recover from – natural and man-made disasters
Projects addressing a broad range of challenges, including mine-clearance, emergency shelter, resilient housing solutions and capacity building
