As the world eagerly anticipates the upcoming COP 28 summit in Dubai this November, our country stands ready to showcase its extraordinary path to carbon neutrality at the Bhutan Pavilion. Bhutan’s story is poised to be a powerful lesson in combating climate change through unwavering commitment and innovative solutions, a message we hope will resonate globally and inspire urgent action.
The Bhutan Pavilion at COP 28 will serve as a platform to share its climate priorities, adaptation, and mitigation strategies, and, most importantly, its vision for a sustainable and green future. However, the narrative must extend beyond the confines of the Pavilion; it should resonate as a global blueprint for addressing climate change, a story that the world must not only listen to but also act upon with a sense of urgency.
Bhutan’s journey towards carbon neutrality is a testament to the power of political will and environmental consciousness. In the midst of the world’s climate crisis, Bhutan stands as a rare nation that has not merely taken baby steps but has made giant leaps in the right direction. Bhutan pledged its commitment to carbon neutrality in 2009, a goal that many larger nations are still struggling with today. Our achievement in maintaining and even improving the country’s carbon neutrality status deserves a standing ovation from the global community.
At the heart of Bhutan’s climate success story lies its unwavering dedication to Gross National Happiness, an innovative development paradigm that places well-being and happiness above the traditional pursuit of material wealth. Thus, Bhutan’s message at COP 28 should underscore that addressing climate change is not just an obligation but also an opportunity to construct a more equitable and harmonious world.
Our unique geography and natural resources play a vital role in our journey towards carbon neutrality. Bhutan is blessed with abundant hydropower resources, which we harness efficiently to produce clean and renewable energy. Our commitment to green energy and its role as a net carbon sink should serve as an example for the world. Our concept of “high value, low volume” tourism, which promotes sustainable tourism practices, demonstrates how thoughtful planning and regulation can protect pristine environments while still welcoming travelers.
The Bhutan Pavilion at COP 28 should be more than a symbolic representation of our commitment or a showcase of our achievements. It should serve as an invitation to the world to join Bhutan on its journey and explore opportunities for green financing and sustainable investments.
The urgency of climate action cannot be overstated. The United Nations Climate Change Conferences are pivotal in forging international cooperation in the fight against climate change. The world must heed Bhutan’s story at COP 28 and respond with the same dedication and urgency. It is not just Bhutan’s responsibility but also a collective duty to safeguard our planet.
Bhutan’s message is crystal clear: carbon neutrality is achievable, and climate action is not a burden but an opportunity for a brighter, sustainable, and happier future. As we stand on the precipice of a global climate crisis, Bhutan’s story offers a beacon of hope and inspiration for all nations to follow. In the pursuit of a more sustainable world, we invite the global community to embrace Bhutan’s message and embark on a collective journey towards a greener, happier, and harmonious future.
