Nepal has become the first country in Asia to sign a potential $55M LEAF Coalition deal to cut deforestation across three provinces.
Experts say success depends on community access, transparency and strong safeguards. Local groups want 80% of funds to reach forest communities, but bureaucracy and capacity gaps could limit benefits.
by Sonam Lama Hyolmo
https://news.mongabay.com/2026/02/nepal-signs-major-carbon-deal-but-community-access-remains-challenging/

Nepal signs major carbon deal but community access remains challenging
KATHMANDU — Nepal signed an agreement with the LEAF Coalition on Jan. 23, becoming the first country in Asia to secure a deal expected to potentially deliver $55 million in carbon finance to support forest-dependent communities. However, carbon trade experts and forest group members say that ensuring the money reaches communities remains a challenge, as […]