Building for climate resilience: Cases of good practices and solutions for safe and resilient settlements in the Hindu Kush Himalaya

The Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) region, spanning 3,500 km across eight countries—Afghanistan, Bhutan, Bangladesh, China, India, Myanmar, Nepal, and Pakistan—is a region of global significance. With its rich ecological diversity, twelve major river systems, and deeply rooted cultural traditions, the HKH supports nearly two billion people both upstream and downstream. However, mountain communities face growing threats from climate change, rapid urbanisation, and unplanned development. Traditional vernacular architecture and heritage sites are being eroded as steel and concrete infrastructure expands, putting pressure on biodiversity, water, and energy security.

This document presents 20 case studies from Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, and Pakistan showcasing innovative practices that integrate traditional knowledge, local building materials, and modern design to reduce carbon footprints and strengthen community resilience. These examples highlight sustainable and climate-resilient solutions for housing and infrastructure, emphasizing the revival of vernacular architecture, use of low-carbon materials, post-disaster reconstruction, digital planning tools, and inclusive, community-led approaches.

Designed for policymakers, practitioners, architects, researchers, and development organisations, this collection promotes regional learning, strategic investment, and enabling policies to scale sustainable, low-carbon, and resilient housing across the HKH.