Building resilient communities and protecting the Himalayan environment through inclusive and sustainable development.
Established in 1994, SPD has remained committed to the holistic and integrated development of the Himalayan region and its communities.
Our experience has demonstrated that the well-being of communities and the health of natural ecosystems are deeply interconnected. Sustainable development therefore requires approaches that strengthen livelihoods while conserving the natural resource base.
Our vision and mission are rooted in participation, community ownership, self-reliance, empowerment and sustainable management of natural resources.
To contribute towards the holistic and integrated development of the Himalayan region by building healthy, empowered and self-reliant communities while promoting the sustainable management and conservation of its natural resources.
SPD envisions a future where communities are able to pursue dignified and sustainable livelihoods, participate meaningfully in development processes, and live in harmony with a healthy and resilient environment.
SPD works with communities and partners to create practical, inclusive and sustainable solutions to social, economic and environmental challenges.
Strengthen community participation, ownership, leadership and self-reliance through inclusive development processes.
Support rural households with skills, knowledge and opportunities to develop sustainable and diversified livelihoods.
Promote sustainable management of forests, water, land, biodiversity and other natural resources of the Himalayan region.
Improve access to health, nutrition, education, skills and other opportunities that contribute to better quality of life.
Create opportunities for women to participate in economic activities, institutions, decision-making and community development.
Work with communities, government agencies, development organizations and other partners to achieve lasting development outcomes.
SPD believes that lasting development cannot be achieved through isolated interventions. Social, economic and environmental dimensions must be addressed together.
Our development philosophy places communities at the centre of planning and implementation. Local knowledge, participation and ownership are combined with appropriate technologies, skills and institutional support.
Encouraging communities to actively participate in decisions that affect their lives.
Promoting opportunities for women and marginalized and vulnerable communities.
Balancing community needs with the carrying capacity of the Himalayan ecosystem.
Encouraging practical solutions, knowledge sharing and appropriate technologies.
Enabling people to build skills, confidence, livelihoods and decision-making capacity.
Strengthening the ability of communities and ecosystems to respond to changing challenges.