Women in Nepal start businesses to help conservation
Women in Naya Padampur, Nepal, built income-generating microenterprises to reduce reliance on dangerous forest work near wild animals.
A spinning wheel whirs on a rooftop as Bin Maya Gurung works her practiced fingers through ivory strands of yarn. She created this wool enterprise after learning the craft over two decades ago in the region for her family.
A 2022 study in the Parbat district showed that nearly all women involved in microenterprises felt confident supporting their families with earnings. These enterprises provide an alternative income source that lessens reliance on forest products like timber for local households.
Successful microenterprises create strong links between land and community. This connection allows conservation work to grow while generating local income for residents who need it most today. Many businesses harvest forest items with low impact or even a beneficial effect on forest systems for sustainable livelihoods.
Social, financial, and regulatory hurdles make it difficult for many Nepali women to get these businesses off the ground despite benefits. Economic and social gains exist, yet many women remain on the outskirts because they must persuade families to support endeavors before starting work.
“They're more empowered, and they started challenging so many social norms, and it's very good that they've started questioning so many conventional narratives”