Pollination is a critical ecosystem service that supports sustainable agriculture and food production worldwide. A new study led by researchers from Nepal, Brazil, and the UK has uncovered the immense economic and nutritional value that insect pollinators provide to the Nepalese agricultural sector. The findings highlight the urgent need to conserve and manage pollinators to ensure food security, economic growth, and public health in this developing nation. Pollination is essential for the production of many of the world’s most important crops, including fruits, vegetables, and oilseeds. Without these insect-pollinated crops, Nepal would face substantial losses in both agricultural revenue and the availability of key dietary nutrients like vitamin A and vitamin C. As the country’s reliance on pollinator-dependent crops continues to grow, safeguarding pollinator populations has become a critical priority for sustainable development in Nepal.
The Buzzing Backbone of Nepalese Agriculture
Nepal’s agricultural sector is the backbone of its economy, contributing 27% of the country’s gross domestic product and two-thirds of its export earnings. For the majority of Nepalese, farming is the primary source of livelihood and food security. However, the success of Nepal’s agricultural production is heavily dependent on the vital ecosystem service of pollination.
The new study, published in the journal Scientific Reports, reveals that 70% of the 75 major crops cultivated in Nepal rely on insect pollination to some degree for their production. This includes many of the country’s most economically valuable and nutritious crops, such as fruits, vegetables, and oilseeds. The researchers estimate that the annual economic value of pollination services in Nepal is a staggering $477 million, representing around 9% of the total agricultural revenue.
Beyond the economic benefits, pollinators also play a critical role in ensuring the nutritional security of Nepalese citizens. The study found that up to 40% of plant-based vitamin A and 14% of vitamin C produced in Nepal are directly attributable to insect pollination. These essential micronutrients are crucial for maintaining vision, boosting the immune system, and supporting growth and development, especially in vulnerable populations like young children and pregnant women.
Increasing Reliance on Pollinators
Over the past two decades, Nepal has seen a remarkable 91% increase in the cultivated area of pollinator-dependent crops, far outpacing the growth of non-pollinator-dependent crops. This trend reflects the government’s efforts to promote the production of high-value, pollinator-reliant crops like fruits, vegetables, and oilseeds, which are important for both economic and nutritional reasons.
However, this rising demand for pollination services is occurring at a time when loss’>habitat loss, pesticide use, and malnutrition, who are most reliant on pollinator-dependent crops for their livelihoods and nutrition.
A Buzzing Future for Nepal
The findings of this study serve as a wake-up call for Nepal and other developing nations heavily dependent on agriculture. Pollinators are not just nice to have – they are essential for the long-term sustainability of food production, economic development, and public health. By investing in the conservation and management of these vital insects, Nepal can ensure a thriving, resilient agricultural sector that benefits both farmers and consumers alike.
As the world grapples with the challenges of development’>sustainable development, the story of Nepal’s pollinators offers valuable lessons and insights. By prioritizing the protection of these humble yet indispensable creatures, Nepal can pave the way for a more prosperous, nutritious, and environmentally sustainable future.
Author credit: This article is based on research by Kedar Devkota, Charles Fernando dos Santos, Alice Borges Ferreira, Thomas Peter Timberlake.
For More Related Articles Click Here
![malnutrition](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Climate<em>change’>climate change</a>. If these trends continue, Nepal could face significant <b>pollination deficits</b> that could severely impact agricultural production, crop quality, and the availability of essential nutrients.</p>
<p><figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" src="https://famefreq.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/1729765762_41598_2024_75584_Fig2_HTML.png" alt="" class="wp-image-2" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Table 1 The economic value of different crop types grown in Nepal measured as millions of US dollars gained in revenue each year.</figcaption></figure>
</p>
<p>The study found that the <b>Madesh province</b> is particularly vulnerable to pollinator declines, with an estimated 10% of its agricultural revenue and 56% of its vitamin A production dependent on insect pollination. Other regions like Bagmati and Karnali also showed high vulnerability, with pollination contributing significantly to the production of key nutrients like vitamin C and folate.</p>
<p><h3>Safeguarding Pollinators for a Sustainable Future</h3>
<p>The findings of this study underscore the critical importance of conserving and managing pollinators to ensure the long-term sustainability of Nepal’s agricultural sector and the food and nutrition security of its people. Targeted efforts, including policy interventions and on-the-ground conservation strategies, are urgently needed to protect and enhance pollinator populations.</p>
<p>At the farm level, simple practices like <b>planting wildflower margins, reducing pesticide use, and supporting native beekeeping</b> can help to create more pollinator-friendly habitats and boost pollination services. At the policy level, Nepal’s government should consider <b>regulations to limit pesticide use, incentives for pollinator-friendly farming, and investment in pollinator research and monitoring</b>.</p>
<p><figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" src="https://famefreq.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/1729765764_41598_2024_75584_Fig3_HTML.png" alt="figure 2" class="wp-image-3" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Fig. 2</figcaption></figure>
</p>
<p>By safeguarding pollinators, Nepal can not only secure its agricultural productivity and economic growth but also ensure that its citizens have access to a diverse, nutrient-rich diet. This is particularly crucial for vulnerable populations, such as smallholder farmers and those experiencing <a href=){kind=link}