Thimphu, 13 October 2023 (TDI): In the capital city of Bhutan, Thimphu, a momentous celebration unfolded as government officials and representatives from the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) commemorated the official launch of the National Adaptation Plan (NAP).
The event marked a significant achievement, uniting Bhutan with 16 other Least Developed Countries, generating anticipation and optimism.
The celebration marked a crucial step in combating climate change with the implementation of National Adaptation Plans. These plans offer strategic guidance, ensuring countries are prepared for climate change impacts, and safeguarding communities and the environment.
Bhutan, one of three carbon-negative nations globally, absorbs more CO2 than it emits, showcasing environmental leadership. Despite this achievement, the country faces heightened vulnerability to climate change impacts.
Bhutan’s National Adaptation Plan embodies our commitment to climate action and our cultural ethos of Gross National Happiness. It envisions a prosperous, resilient, and carbon-neutral Bhutan, ensuring the pursuit of happiness for present and future generations despite climate change challenges.
After years of careful planning and extensive collaboration with government agencies, local planners, civil society, academia, and the private sector, Bhutan achieved a significant milestone in climate adaptation.
This accomplishment reflects meticulous efforts and collective expertise, underscoring the nation’s dedication to resilience against climate change impacts.
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Melting glaciers heighten flood risks and disrupt water supply, while unpredictable rainfall triggers landslides and dries up water sources in Bhutan.
These climate change effects affect hydropower, agriculture, and communities, posing challenges to Bhutan’s economic growth. Urgent adaptation efforts are crucial to address these multifaceted challenges.
In 2019, Bhutan initiated a vital $2.9 million project, supported by the Green Climate Fund and UNDP, to develop its National Adaptation Plan.
This effort involved assessing priority sectors, climate risks, and necessary skills. It also identified the most vulnerable regions and their adaptation capabilities.
Bhutan’s National Adaptation Plan integrates with existing initiatives, including the National Adaptation Program of Action and the Nationally Determined Contribution under the Paris Agreement.
Aligned with the ongoing Five-Year Plan, this approach strengthens the country’s climate and disaster resilience efforts, ensuring a comprehensive response to climate change.
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