Cultures and Religions of the Himalayan Region

There are few places in the world that do not invlove human interaction and environmental concerns. Although the Himalayan region is isolated and in some parts "untouchable", environmental concerns have encompassed parts of this region. Students need to learn the importance of biodiversity and the impact that humans have on ecosystems. I will try to provide valuable resources that will help teachers illustrate how sensitive ecosystems are and what action needs to be done in order to prevent further distruction.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama says in his famous poem on the environment:
"In the remoteness of the Himalayas
In the days of yore, the land of Tibet
Observed a ban on hunting, on fishing
And, during designated periods, even construction
These traditions are noble
For they preserve and Cherish The lives of humble, helpless and defenseless creatures."

Lesson 1:

1. Assuming that you have taught your class about the importance of biodiversity and different ecosystems, present a slide show (powerpoint) or overhead images of environmental impact in the Himalayan region. (You may use this SLIDESHOW as an example)

2. Have the students observe the slides and describe what they see through discussion. Try to raise questions concerning the cause, effect, and resolution to the problem.

3. Further discussion may concern issues on: hunting and poaching, commercial exploitation, population pressure and deforestation. The threats and consequences link may be able to help you!

4. Assign studnets an opinion essay having them sum up their thoughts of the slide show/discussion and formulating ways to conserve ecosystems.

Additional lesson plans and resources:

Lesson: Learning from Ladakh
- A Video on a little-known culture prompts students to reconsider the concept of a "primative" culture and the benefits of "developement."

Resource: The State of the Himalayas
- An essay on the establishment of the Tibetan plateau as a "Zone of Peace," a place where world peace would be promoted, environmental protection strictly enforced and development practices sustainable.

Resource: Books on Ecology and Environment

Resource: Environmental Watch: Development
- Information about modernization and appropriate technology projects.

Resource: Photographic Essay 1: Rangelands and Pastoral Production on the Tibetan Plateau
- A wonderful slideshow presenting wildlife and nomadic life

Resource: Wildlife in Tibet
- Informational site looking at various objectives: endangered species, biodiversity, solutions, threats and consequences, reflections

Resource: Tibet Environmental Watch
- Site which describes the relationship of Tibetan nomads and farmers with the environment

*Lesson: Everyone has an Everest*
- Site containing a detailed lesson plan learning the importance of PREVENTION.
- Multimedia Gallery: still images, video and audio
- Teachers tool kit: lessons in various subjects