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Sustainability
'Leading environmentalists have made it clear that the dilemmas we
face cannot be solved by technological, political or economic means
alone. Spiritual traditions will have to play a critical role in
collaborative efforts to stem the tide of devastation'.
--Dr. S. Kaza, University of Vermont, USA
Forbidden Land.
Before 1950, Nepal was a forbidden land, shrouded in
mystery.
However, by 1965 around 20 tourists had made the long trek to Khumbu.
Just 30 years later, that figure had increased a thousand- fold to
20,000. This number is steadily increasing. By the beginning of the
millennium, official figures estimate that 30,000 people a year will
visit Tengboche, by 2010 that figure could be as high as 60,000.
Lost Solitude.
Monasteries like Tengboche were built in places of quiet and
solitude, concerned only with religious activities. Now Tengboche has
become responsible for hosting thousands of visitors. Over the years,
efforts have been made to improve the living conditions in Tengboche
and in particular to provide facilities that reduce the adverse
impact of tourism on the environment. These facilities need to be
well maintained and managed if there is to be any long-term
benefit.
Sacred Land Eco-Center.
The building has been designed and constructed in a way that fits in
with the local style, but uses much less wood. In particular the
steel truss roof, aluminum windows and stone floor substantially
reduced the amount of wood saving more than 50 trees.
The exhibition and film provide information on the culture and
environment. Well informed trekkers help support sustainable tourism
and they can encourage good practices in local businesses. Income
from the Eco - Center and the shop helps provide food and supports
the traditional monastic education by providing money for
accommodation, teachers, books and sponsorship for students.
In addition, it helps maintain the following facilities - which are
specifically aimed at reducing the impact of tourism on the fragile
ecosystem of Tengboche:
Water: previously, there was no water in Tengboche in the winter. The
new system pumps water up from Devoche during peak trekking times.
Electricity: a small hydro power station below Tengboche provides an
alternative energy source.
Toilets: public toilets have been built and for health reasons,
please do not use toilet tents.
Porters' Shelter: a shelter has bee provided for the poorest people.
This means that less wood need be used by the porters for fires for
warmth during the icy winter nights.
Telephone: this provides vital communication services for arranging
rescues and linking Tengboche to the outside world.
Traditional Herbal Medicine: the Tibetan Herbal Medical Clinic in
Namche and the production of traditional medicines. Medicines are
given free to porters and poor people.
Plantation: for the cultivation of medicinal plants as well as trees
suitable for northern slopes and higher altitudes. The aim is to
increase forest bio-diversity.
Eco Lodge: a small, environmentally friendly lodge is planned. The
income will be used to support cultural and environmental
conservation.
All these activities rely on your generous support. Thank you
In the end we will conserve only what we love,
We will love only what we understand,
We will understand only what we are taught.
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