Introduction of the Bhutan Green Hotel Standard (BGHS) is a comprehensive national benchmark for eco-friendly hospitality. The initiative was officially launched on Monday at the historic Dungkar Dzong in Paro, marking a new chapter in the country’s sustainable tourism journey.
Developed collaboratively by the Department of Tourism, the Association of Bhutanese Tour Operators (ABTO), the Bhutan Standards Bureau, and other stakeholders, the BGHS aligns with globally recognised frameworks such as the ASEAN Green Hotel Standard and the Global Sustainable Tourism Criteria. Endorsed in March last year, the standard outlines nine core parameters and 67 indicators, with 48 mandatory requirements and 19 recommended best practices for certification.
Following pilot assessments in Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha under the EU-funded SUSTOUR project, five hotels have already earned certification. Officials emphasise that the programme is voluntary and designed to be supportive rather than prescriptive. “This gives hotels a branding advantage and opens up opportunities to attract conscious, responsible travellers,” said Damcho Rinzin, Director of the Department of Tourism.
According to ABTO Executive Director Sonam Dorji, the standard not only enhances environmental stewardship but also improves operational efficiency. Certification is valid for three years, after which hotels must undergo reassessment. Early findings suggest that higher-star hotels already meet many criteria due to Bhutan’s existing classification system. However, gaps remain in areas such as wastewater treatment and recordkeeping.
The next phase of the programme will focus on nationwide awareness campaigns, training assessors for consistent evaluations, and refining criteria based on pilot feedback. With applications now open to hotels across the country, Bhutan hopes the BGHS will encourage more establishments to commit to measurable, evidence-based sustainability practices—helping the nation protect its pristine environment while strengthening its tourism appeal.
