Just a month before the COP 20 in Lima, Peru’s capital, Nepal will host international conference on climate change. Over 200 scientists more than 20 countries, including Nepal, would be attending a conference in Kathmandu to discuss measures on reducing the impact of climate change and melting of the glaciers in the Himalayan region.

Jointly organized by Ministry of Science and Technology and International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD), the conference will bring together over 200 experts, government officials and stakeholders from across the world. Held from November 9-12, the theme of conference is Mountain People Adapting to Change.

According to a press statement issued by ICIMOD, experts and government officials from Nepal, India, Afghanistan, Bangaladesh, Bhutan, China, Myanmar and Pakistan would be participating in the meeting.

Prime Minister Sushil Koirala is scheduled to inaugurate the conference at ICIMOD Headquarters in Kathmandu on Sunday.

The main objectives of the conference is to share evidence-based scientific knowledge to improve the action on adaptation, particular to climate change, generate awareness and engagement by facilitating dialogue in the Hindu Kush Himalayas.  The meeting would also foster partnership towards addressing adaptation and vulnerability in the entire region.

"By drawing together the latest knowledge, policies, and practices on adaptation, the conference aims to strengthen the interface between science, policy and practices and improve communication for adaptation to change in the Hindu Kush Himalayan region and downstream," the statement said.

"Climate change and other changes have already begun to impact ecosystems and communities across the region, as well as those downstream," it said.