Our country may appear small, but its impact is far from insignificant. Recent reports from the World Economic Forum highlighted a remarkable achievement – eight countries, including Bhutan, have attained the impressive feat of net zero emissions. This means that not only have these nations curbed their carbon footprints, but they’ve also transformed into carbon sinks, absorbing more carbon dioxide (CO2) than they release.
Back in 2015, during the UN Climate Change Conference (COP21) held in France, 196 nations, Bhutan among them, committed to the Paris Agreement – an international pact designed to restrict global temperature increases to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. This collective effort aimed to address climate change through comprehensive decarbonization across sectors like energy, industry, transport, and agriculture. Despite these endeavors, projections indicate that the world will still emit a substantial 50 gigatonnes of carbon dioxide by 2030, underscoring the urgent need for more effective measures.
In this context, the accomplishments of these small nations bear invaluable lessons for larger ones. Their stories are testaments to their unwavering dedication to sustainability and robust environmental protection policies.
Consider Comoros, nestled in the Indian Ocean. Despite its modest size and population density, the country has managed to maintain low emissions by conscientiously managing its agricultural, fishing, and livestock sectors, complemented by rigorous environmental safeguards. Madagascar, also reliant on agriculture and fishing, faces the looming threat of large-scale deforestation. However, these nations are investing in safeguarding their natural assets, reflecting the deep-rooted commitment to preservation.
Similarly, Gabon, gifted with the lush Congo rainforests, stands as a bastion of non-deforestation and prudent resource management in Central Africa. Recognized by the UN for its environmental conservation efforts, Gabon serves as a role model. The Amazon rainforest envelops both Guyana and Suriname, endowing them with the status of carbon sinks. Niue, a small island nation in the South Pacific, balances fishing, agriculture, and tourism, while Panama, blessed with rich rainforests, treads a path towards reforestation. These countries exhibit a shared ethos of nurturing their natural surroundings.
Taking center stage is Bhutan, the Himalayan Kingdom, distinct from its Indian neighbor. Bhutan’s unique success as the first nation to achieve net zero emissions is rooted in its population of 800,000 and its remarkable forest coverage of 70%. The nation prioritizes sustainable organic farming and forestry practices, accentuated by the reliance on hydropower and the prudent management of its main economic driver, tourism. Notably, Bhutan charges a $200 sustainable development fee per day to tourists, underscoring the value placed on eco-tourism and environmental protection.
Bhutan’s forests are not merely ecosystems; they are an intrinsic part of its spiritual heritage. Guided by a climate-conscious forest economy, Bhutan mitigates greenhouse gas emissions, preserves wildlife habitats, mitigates forest fires, and practices sustainable forest management for timber, fruit, and rubber – fostering a circular economy. The nation has embarked on pilot projects that explore sustainable timber construction, showcasing innovative solutions.
However, a note of caution is prudent, as maintaining a climate-smart forest economy presents challenges when demand overshadows supply. This delicate balance requires vigilance to prevent degradation and deforestation, challenges that other rainforest nations have grappled with.
Meanwhile, Bhutan’s influence resonates beyond its borders. In neighboring India, Sikkim’s aspiration to achieve carbon negativity stands out, symbolized by the planting of 100 saplings for every newborn. Likewise, the Forest Department study that heralded 112 carbon-negative government schools in Chandigarh signifies India’s strides toward carbon neutrality by 2030.
Bhutan’s journey to net zero emissions, fueled by an unyielding commitment to its environment and cultural heritage, is a source of inspiration for the world. As nations navigate the complexities of climate change, Bhutan’s story beckons us to embrace sustainable practices and safeguard our precious planet.
