Research-friendly policies sought Minister for Environment, Science and Technology Ganesh Shah said today that the new year 2066 BS would be a significant one for the country in terms of science and technology. “The year belongs to scientists, innovators and researchers,” he added. Addressing a seminar on ‘Issues and prospects of high altitude research in Nepal and EvK2-CNR Project in Sagarmatha National Park’ organised by Nepal Academy of Science and Technology here today, Shah said no waste was waste. “It can be converted into energy and useful items,” he added. National and international scientists and researchers expressed their concerns about the piling up of garbage and the pollution in the Everest region. Minister for Forest and Soil Conservation Kiran Gurung said the government was ready to formulate research-friendly policies and laws. “We must be sincere towards the preservation of natural resources and nation development,” he added. Gurung also said it was necessary to carry out extensive research on climate change and its impacts. “National and international communities should join hands to tackle the global challenge and threat of climate change,” he added. Gurung, however, admitted that the government was failing to prioritise such sensitive issues. “Science and technology play significant role in nation development. But the government is giving less priority to this sector,” Gurung said. Prof Hom Nath Bhattarai, vice-chancellor of NAST, said the nation lacked research-friendly policies. “The government needs to bring a clear policy, without harming national interest, and create conducive environment for international collaborations on science and technology researches,” he added. Italian scientist Dr D Tartari showed concern about increasing pollution in the Everest region. A total of 16 working papers were presented in the seminar attended by over 100 local and visiting scientists and researchers.