Bhutan for Life

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐝𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐈𝐧𝐟𝐫𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐜𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐚𝐭 𝐖𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐜𝐡𝐮𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐤𝐚 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐤, 𝐏𝐡𝐢𝐛𝐬𝐨𝐨 𝐖𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐞 𝐒𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐭𝐮𝐚𝐫𝐲 The development of Wangchulingka Park under the Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary aims to create #SustainableTourism and economic growth for the local community. By focusing on the establishment of essential infrastructure such as reception areas , visitor information centers, gazebo and viewing decks, and other amenities, the park aims to increase the number of visitors while ensuring continued conservation efforts within the park. The initiatives will increase employment opportunities through establishment of #naturebasedenterprise and enhance livelihoods of the households within protected areas (PAs), further their resilience to climate change. The benefits of this initiative extend far beyond tourism. The 100 households in Sengye Gewog will gain significant economic opportunities. With the park’s expansion, local residents can now engage in offering eco-lodge services, selling handicrafts, and providing safari tours, generating diversified income streams. The eco-friendly design and conservation-oriented approach of Wangchulingka Park reflect a deep commitment to environmental stewardship. Through these sustainable tourism initiatives, the park not only preserves the region’s biodiversity but also instills a sense of environmental responsibility among the community. #ecotourism #SustainableTourism Green Climate Fund World Wildlife Fund @DoFPS Bhutan Trust Fund for Environmental Conservation

𝐄𝐧𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐁𝐢𝐨𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠, 𝐚 𝐑𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐛𝐚𝐧𝐤 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐞 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐳𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐢𝐧 𝐊𝐮𝐫𝐭𝐨𝐞𝐝 𝐆𝐞𝐰𝐨𝐠 Deployment of #bioengineering techniques within the mountainous landscape is an essential mitigation measure to maintain environmental stability, enhancing resilience to natural hazards, and promoting sustainable land management practices. The Milestone 4 of the BFL program is aimed at improving disaster preparedness and reducing vulnerability for communities residing within Protected Areas and Biological Corridors. Under this milestone the BFL program supported construction of gabion walls to mitigate the risks of soil erosion and flooding. The gabion wall constructed along the Dungkar Yungma stream at Jasabi and Tabi chiwogs, extending 88 meters in length, serves to protect approximately 10 acres of fertile paddy fields and benefits approximately 34 households under Kurtoed Gewog. The successful completion of these initiatives highlights the collaborative efforts between local government, communities of Jasabi and Tabi Chiwogs, and Wangchuck Centennial National Park officials. These efforts not only preserve essential agricultural land but also align with Bhutan’s overarching goals of environmental stewardship and #communitybasedconservation. #bioengineering #climatechangeresilience #mitigationactivities Green Climate Fund World Wildlife Fund Bhutan Trust Fund for Environmental Conservation @department of forests and park services

𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐁𝐢𝐨𝐝𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐢𝐧 𝐁𝐡𝐮𝐭𝐚𝐧 The report presents a comprehensive analysis of Bhutan's biodiversity, using a systematic survey method based on Biodiversity Monitoring Grids (BMGs). The study involved 4km x 4km grids to ensure standardized data collection across diverse landscapes, with a total of 2,424 BMGs designated throughout the country. It highlights the importance of preserving and restoring critical habitats, such as forests, wetlands, and aquatic ecosystems, to support diverse populations. Targeted conservation measures are recommended for species of high ecological importance or those facing significant threats. View Report: https://lnkd.in/dd4v8wJw News by Bhutan Broadcasting Service : https://lnkd.in/drvzYXbg Green Climate Fund World Wildlife Fund Bhutan Trust Fund for Environmental Conservation @dofps

𝐁𝐡𝐮𝐭𝐚𝐧 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐋𝐢𝐟𝐞'𝐬 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐢𝐭𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐄𝐧𝐯𝐢𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐨𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐒𝐚𝐟𝐞𝐠𝐮𝐚𝐫𝐝. #environmentalandsocialsafeguards (ESS) is a non-negotiable component in all Bhutan for Life (BFL) projects to ensure any development activities supported under BFL Programs are conducted responsibly, minimizing adverse impacts on the environment and local communities. ESS compliance is essential for aligning activities with international standards and local regulations, fostering a culture of accountability, transparent and inclusive decision making process. Based on the WWF’s Environmental and Social Safeguards Categorization Memorandum, the BFL activities has been categorized as a #categorybproject due to its potential adverse environmental and social impacts, which are considered less severe, site specific, reversible, and can be effectively mitigated. Under this category, the program is required to prepare comprehensive ESMPs for all activities that may pose social and environmental impacts. The ESMP provides an overview of the environmental and social baseline conditions, summarizes the potential impacts associated with the proposed activities and sets out the appropriate measures required to mitigate any potential negative impacts. The ESMP is implemented by the BFL focal person in each PAs/BCs. The BFL program prioritizes ESS compliance by conducting comprehensive training sessions to enhance the capacity of field officials. The training equips the participants with practical knowledge on ESS screening, ESMP preparation, and the #grievanceredressalmechanism (GRM). These sessions include hands-on exercises and collaborative discussions, resulting in a well-rounded understanding on effectively managing and monitoring of environmental and social impacts of the BFL program. Green Climate Fund World Wildlife Fund US @Department of Forests and Park Services Link to the BFL ESS: https://lnkd.in/dZXDPw38 #wwfess #environmentalandsocialsafeguards #bflsafeguards

𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐭 𝐑𝐨𝐲𝐚𝐥 𝐌𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐬 𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐤: 𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞’𝐬 𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞 #waterholes are vital lifelines for wildlife. These natural or artificial water bodies provide essential hydration, serving as oases amidst dry landscapes. The concentration of wildlife around waterholes creates dynamic predator-prey interactions, shaping the delicate balance of nature. The milestone 10 of Bhutan For Life Program supports improvement and management of key high biodiversity and climate resilience value habitats and areas that connect them. The revival of waterholes are carried out to sustain drinking water sources for wild animals at the Royal Manas National Park, especially during lean season. The water sources which are on the verge of drying up and that needs management intervention are Othpaling tsho, Tshowaibala, Dewar tsho, Tali tsho, Hatilora, Azingakhola waterholes and Manas compound waterholes. The surroundings of the waterholes are cleaned, logs, leaf litter and branches in the water holes are also removed. Further, the silted materials underneath are also removed. These interventions enhance maximum recharge to provide enough water for the wild animals. #waterholes, #habitatrestoration Green Climate Fund World Wildlife Fund @Department of Forests and Park Services

Happy World Ranger Day 2024! On this #WorldRangerDay, we take a moment to express our deepest gratitude to our Unsung Heroes for your unwavering dedication and courage. Your tireless efforts to protect our natural heritage are invaluable. You face challenges with bravery, and your commitment to preserving our environment inspires us all. We are truly fortunate to have such dedicated individuals safeguarding our planet. Thank you for your service. Video Credit: Department of Forests and Park Services

𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐓𝐢𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐃𝐚𝐲 To mark the #InternationalTigerDay2024, let us celebrate Bhutan For Life's achievement in successfully carrying out the #nationaltigersurvey 2021-2022. Milestone 7 of the Bhutan for Life Program supports the conservation and stability of major ecosystems by focusing on two flagship species: #tigers and #snowleopard. This milestone underscores the commitment to biodiversity conservation and the preservation of critical habitats, contributing to the overall ecological health and sustainability of the region. The National Tiger Survey conducted in 2021-2022 through the funding support from Bhutan for Life has revealed the increase in tiger population by 131 from 103 in 2014-2015 survey, an increase by 27%. 𝐊𝐞𝐲 𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐭𝐡𝐞 #𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐢𝐠𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐯𝐞𝐲 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟏-𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟐 Bhutan's tiger population has surged by 27% from #103tigers in 2014-2015 to an impressive #131tigers in 2021-2022; tigers are making a comeback. Our densest tiger populations are thriving in @Royal Manas National Park, Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park, Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary, and several forest divisions including #bumthang, #Dagana, and #zhemgang. With an overall density of 0.23 tigers per 100 km², Bhutan's tigers are reclaiming their territory, showcasing their resilience and the effectiveness of our conservation efforts. To achieve these remarkable results, 1,214 camera stations were set up across Bhutan to capture images and videos, providing critical data for the analysis. Field staff underwent rigorous training to ensure standardized survey techniques, and advanced tools were used to analyze images and identify individual tigers. As tiger numbers rise, so do conflicts with humans, posing a significant conservation challenge. Habitat fragmentation and degradation due to human activities threaten tiger survival. Although less severe in Bhutan, poaching for illegal trade remains a threat. Further, infrastructure developments continue to pose a threat on tiger habitats, making it crucial to balance development with conservation. Looking ahead, enhancing education and awareness, engaging local communities, supporting those impacted by tiger conflicts, protecting habitats, and long-term monitoring of tiger populations are key to reducing human-tiger conflicts and ensuring effective conservation. We must implement comprehensive strategies, strengthen conservation policies, support research, and enhance local capacity for effective conservation practices. Link to the Tiger Survey Report: https://lnkd.in/efUeb7-a Picture Courtesy: DoFPS Green Climate Fund World Wildlife Fund US @Department of Forests and Park Services (DoFPS) #InternationalTigerDay #TigerConservation #SaveTheTigers #BhutanTigers #WildlifeProtection #TigerSurvey #BhutanForLife

𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐛𝐢𝐨𝐝𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐢𝐧 𝐏𝐡𝐢𝐛𝐬𝐨𝐨 𝐖𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐞 𝐒𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐭𝐮𝐚𝐫𝐲 (𝐏𝐖𝐒) The #grassland areas in the @Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary (PWS), located in the southern part of Bhutan are increasingly encroached by unpalatable woody species and other invasive species such as #chromolaenaodorata, #lippiaalba, and #sidaacuta. This encroachment creates unsuitable habitats for keystone grassland species like #spotteddeer and #sambardeer, thereby posing threats to the conservation of significant endangered species such as #BengalTigers (Pantera tigress) and #asianelephant (Elephas maximus). Therefore, one of the milestones (milestone 10) under the Bhutan For LifeProgram aims to support initiatives to bring key high #biodiversity and #ClimateResilience value habitats (and areas that connect them) under improved management. The restoration of grassland to enhance quality and resilience of lowland #grasslands and alpine meadows is carried out based on the #climatechange impacts information. The BFL Program provides annual funding to Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary (PWS) for grassland management activities. As a result, PWS has successfully managed 95.14 hectares of #grassland annually. This effort has led to an increase in the population of key mammal species such as Spotted deer and Hog deer, which are crucial for the ecosystem to thrive. Further, the removal of invasive species like #chromolaenaodorata and other woody plants using grass slasher tractors. The PWS has planted Themeda grasses across 22 hectares, which is expected to enhance the habitat for elephants and other keystone prey species for Tigers. The #grasslandmanagement work in PWS began in 2019. Initially, the grasslands were managed manually, requiring intensive labor. However, since 2022, the management has been carried out using modern equipment supported by #BFL leading to more effective and timely restoration and management of lowland grasslands. The effective management of grassland is crucial for the conservation of endangered species like the #tiger and #asianelephant. Additionally, it offers #ecotourism opportunities in the PWS. #grasslandmanagement #phibsoowildlifesanctuary #BiodiversityConservation Green Climate Fund World Wildlife Fund US @Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary @Department of Forests and Park Services

𝐈𝐧𝐧𝐨𝐯𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐌𝐞𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐬𝐦 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐬𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐀𝐫𝐞𝐚 𝐍𝐞𝐭𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐁𝐡𝐮𝐭𝐚𝐧 July 12, 2024, the Ministry of Finance, Royal Government of Bhutan, World Wildlife Fund US and Bhutan for Life Fund Secretariat (BFL-FS) organized an important stakeholder consultation workshop focused on the #SustainableFinancing Mechanisms Feasibility Assessment. Participants included representatives from the Royal Government of Bhutan, and other key national stakeholders, all coming together to discuss and refine sustainable financing strategies for Bhutan’s protected area networks. The Bhutan For Life(BFL) program is a 14-year joint initiative by the Royal Government of Bhutan, WWF-US, and international private partners. With a robust funding of US$ 118 million, BFL aims to ensure the continuous protection of Bhutan's rich biodiversity and natural landscapes. The Milestone 16 of BFL Program entails development of new #InnovativeFinancing mechanisms to craft new, lasting revenue streams to fund conservation programs indefinitely in Bhutan. The workshop captured a comprehensive overview and objectives of the feasibility study. The study aims to identify and detail 4-5 priority financing mechanisms that can significantly contribute to the long-term funding needs of Bhutan’s #protectedareanetworks, and develop implementation roadmaps for these mechanisms. The workshop included breakout discussions where participants, divided into three groups, engaged in evaluating the potential of various financing mechanisms considering factors such as #scale, #political and #legalfeasibility, #operationalenvironment, and #implementationtimeframe. Through this feasibility assessment, BFL aims to support the Royal Government of Bhutan in identifying and developing new #longtermfinancingsources for its #protectedareanetworks. The outcomes of the group work and stakeholder engagement will guide the next steps in developing a shortlist of high-priority mechanisms and their implementation roadmaps, ensuring the long-term sustainability of Bhutan's invaluable natural heritage. @Ministry of Finance Druk Holding & Investments Limited, Royal Monetary Authority of Bhutan, Bhutan Power Corporation Limited, @Association of Bhutanese Industries, @Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Employment, Druk Green Power Corporation Limited, @Department of Forests and Park Services, Department of Energy, Ministry of Energy & Natural Resources, Bhutan, WWF Bhutan, Bhutan Trust Fund for Environmental Conservation, @Department of Geology and Mines, Department of Tourism - Bhutan, Terranomics, @Nature Conservation Division, @Bhutan Electricity Authority - BEA, Secretariat. Green Climate Fund WWF #bhutanforlife #conservation #sustainablefinance #ClimateAction #Biodiversity

𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐘𝐚𝐤 𝐇𝐚𝐢𝐫 𝐖𝐞𝐚𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐒𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐋𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐢𝐧 𝐍𝐚𝐫𝐨 𝐆𝐞𝐰𝐨𝐠, 𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐡𝐮 The #traditionalnomadic tent known as Bja; made from Yak hair, has been a fundamental part of culture among the highland community for generations. Nargo Gewog, under Thimphu Dzongkhag Administration is one of the remote highland communities where tents and other essential items made from yak hair, have provided #shelter and #livelihood for the herders who migrate seasonally with their yaks in search of better grazing areas. However, with the introduction of tarpaulin tents, the art of weaving Bja has been lost, and the younger generation has lost touch with these valuable skills. Tsherhing Yangki, 51 said “Our children have never seen the practice of weaving Bja and this initiative is going to be an example for our children. “Further, it is going to be an alternative source of income for us.” she added. Recognizing the importance of preserving this culture and its potential for generating additional income for the highlanders, The Bhutan For Life (BFL) program collaborated with Jigme Dorji National Park(JDNP) and the @Lingzhi Range Office, under Department of Forests and Park Services organized an intensive two-week training program on #weavingBja and development of other souvenirs. This initiative aimed to revive the traditional weaving practices and #EmpowerLocalWomen with the skills to produce Bja and other yak hair products as souvenirs. The milestone 6 of the BFL program requires 80% of all households within Protected Area Networks increased access to #nature-based employment and income generation opportunities including #EcoTourism, enhancing their #resilience to #climatechange. Further, BFL also recognizes the importance of gender considerations in terms of project impacts and taking a gender-sensitive approach in order to adapt to and mitigate against the impact of climate change. Twelve #women from Naro Gewog participated in this training, led by local experts in Bja weaving. The program covered every aspect of the craft, from extracting the final thread (yokgo) from raw yak hair to weaving various items like Bja (tent), Pheysey (Sack), Zham, Zha Chu, Ropes, and Jola (Bag). The trainees were also introduced to the names and purposes of each woven item. This initiative not only revived a dying tradition but also provided the women with a new source of income. They now produce Bja and various souvenirs from yak hair agenerating job opportunities for the local youth. “Setting up locally produced tents (Bja) requires less amount of wood and it lasts longer than other types of tents such as plastic tents” said Kinley Gyem, 30, who is one of the participants. Revival of this traditional weaving practice has reduced the reliance on forest woods, thus decreasing the pollution. #localresourceutilization #womenempowement #climatechangeadaptation Green Climate Fund WWF