In a decisive step toward sustainable construction and reduced import dependency, Bhutan has announced the establishment of its first-ever structural timber testing, research, and promotion facility. The groundbreaking initiative was unveiled on February 10 following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Druk Holding and Investments Limited (DHI) and the College of Science and Technology (CST).
The new facility, set to be housed on CST’s campus, aims to unlock the potential of Bhutan’s abundant timber resources. Despite the nation’s rich forest cover, Bhutan has long relied on imported construction materials such as steel and concrete—products known for their heavy carbon footprint. By shifting focus to Mass Engineered Timber (MET), an environmentally friendly alternative, the project hopes to usher in a new era of sustainable building practices.
“This initiative is about more than just testing timber; it’s about elevating Bhutan’s construction standards,” said Ujjwal Deep Dahal, Chief Executive Officer of DHI. “The establishment of this research and testing facility, along with our investments in MET and technologies like thermo mechanical timber modification, is a testament to our commitment to sustainable development.”
The facility will not only assess whether local timber meets the stringent quality and safety standards required for MET applications but will also serve as a knowledge hub for engineers, researchers, and industry stakeholders. The state-of-the-art testing equipment and dedicated research programs will provide critical insights into timber’s structural properties, paving the way for its broader adoption in the construction industry both domestically and internationally.
CST is set to play a pivotal role by developing specialized academic courses and research programs that will build human resource capacity in timber engineering. “We are thrilled to partner with DHI to empower the next generation of engineers and researchers in Bhutan and internationally to explore innovative timber engineering solutions,” stated Cheki Dorji, President of CST.
DHI’s financial backing for CST’s infrastructure development is aligned with Bhutan’s broader vision of reducing reliance on imports and promoting economic growth through local resources. As the country explores sustainable construction practices, the new facility is expected to position Bhutan as a competitive player in the emerging MET market.
This collaboration marks a significant milestone in Bhutan’s green economy journey, providing a vital platform for advancing research, education, and innovation in timber-based engineering. With initiatives like these, Bhutan is poised to redefine its construction landscape, blending environmental responsibility with cutting-edge technological progress.
