Zero-waste farming with bichu ghaas: A circularapproach to environmental sustainability

Abstract

Hill agriculture in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh faces persistent challenges such as fragile soils, limited land availability, rising input costs and increasing climate variability. These conditions require farming approaches that are low-input, resource-efficient and environmentally sustainable. Zero-waste farming offers a practical approach by promoting effective utilisation of locally available biological resources and reducing dependence on external inputs. Stinging nettle (Bichu Ghaas), a naturally occurring plant traditionally used by hill communities, remains underutilised in organised farming systems. This article highlights the potential of stinging nettle in supporting circular and resource-efficient hill agriculture. By linking indigenous knowledge with practical extension approaches, nettle can contribute to food and nutritional security, soil health improvement, biomass recycling and livelihood support, thereby strengthening farm resilience and environmental sustainability.