MetLife Foundation Supports Reforestation Project around Chitwan National Park in Nepal

MetLife Foundation has provided support for large-scale community reforestation efforts led by the Arbor Day Foundation in Bachhauli, Nawalparasi district, Nepal. The project involved the planting of 5,000 trees to restore 294 acres of forest across the mountainous region along with the lowland alluvial plains surrounding Chitwan National Park. The project aims to develop a buffer zone to preserve and rehabilitate local biodiversity, improve local livelihoods, and restore forests in areas of ecological significance.

(Source: Eden Reforestation Projects)

The forests in Nepal are located among a variety of vibrant landscapes, many of which are home to threatened and endangered wildlife species. Overharvesting, forest fires, and unplanned agricultural production have had a substantial impact on the ecosystem surrounding Chitwan National Park. Environmental degradation has affected local sustainability and livelihoods of rural communities, which has consequentially escalated the risk of natural disasters caused by climate change. The village of Bachhauli, which used to be forested by tropical sal groves in the lowland Terai region, has seen an increase in its population, resulting in the destruction of large swaths of forests, natural habitats, and land fertility.

To combat these problems, MetLife supported the Arbor Day Foundation and its planting partner Eden Reforestation Projects through tree planting efforts in the Nawalparasi District. Native treespecies that provide benefits like soil anchoring and mudslide prevention were planted near the Park’s biodiversity buffer zone. The project followed a distinct three-phase cycle involving nursery development, seedling germination, and planting. 

The local forestry department will oversee the maintenance and protection of the trees, critical plants, and wildlife species living among these rural communities in the coming year. Additionally, this project also focused on women's empowerment among the community by developing local women-led teams to initiate the local forestry program.

Mr. Nirmal Kajee Shrestha, Vice President and General Manager of MetLife Nepal, said: "Biodiversity and natural resources are essential for combating climate change and environmental hazards. This support from the MetLife Foundation shall help in preserving endangered species and rehabilitating their natural habitat for a sustainable future."

This project also contributes to MetLife’s efforts to plant 5 million trees between 2020 and 2030, prioritizing areas vulnerable to natural disasters to help improve the health of local ecosystems and communities, and preserve biodiversity.