Since its inception in 1992, EcoHimal has been committed to combating climate change by adapting local agriculture to the challenges. We seek to improve the resilience of rural smallholder farmers through various tools and techniques, such as community-managed agroforestry and resource centres, multi-layered cultivation and bio-intensive plantation technologies, promotion of organic vegetable production in locally constructed greenhouses, rainwater harvesting and the cultivation of trees to protect slopes.

The application of a mixed, multi-layered tree planting system on vulnerable mountain slopes contributes to climate protection and soil conservation. It improves biodiversity and resilience, minimises the risk of crop failure, promotes creative land use, saves energy and resources, and improves carbon sequestration. It also provides short- and long-term income opportunities, as well as many other benefits such as shade, firewood, leaves for mulch and compost, fodder and habitat protection for wildlife.

In the long term, the introduction of versatile, multi-layered cropping systems leads to optimised use of land resources and reduced risk of crop failure. It empowers marginalised groups, including women and people with disabilities, and provides alternative livelihood opportunities. It mitigates the effects of climate change by supporting afforestation and environmental protection through capacity building. The introduction of new crops into the multi-layered system can lead to significant increases in income once the fruit and nut trees mature. All this should be anchored through the establishment and institutionalisation of women's and farmers' groups, nurseries, cooperatives and outlets.

A network of such centres is currently being established and promoted through a number of projects. In Nepal, this is the case in Solukhumbu, Khotang, Khavrepalanchok, Magdi, Lamjung, Sindhupalchok (Duguna Ghadi) Kalikot and Karnali, and a similar project is being implemented in Kara-Bak, Batken district, in southern Kyrgyzstan. The projects have different durations, but should in any case stand on their own financial feet by 2025 at the latest.