Climate change is a reality we must recognize when implementing conservation strategies. The impacts of climate change are drastic weather pattern changes, flash floods, rising sea levels, heatwaves, wind storms, and unusually long periods of severe droughts. The beginning of the 21st century has been recorded as the warmest period, putting many of the most vulnerable communities at risk. The median of the projections suggests winter warming of 1.5 °C to 2.0°C and summer warming of 1.0°C to 2.0°C by 2060s.
During COP15 in Copenhagen and COP21 in Paris, Bhutan pledged to remain carbon neutral. As it stands, Bhutan is not simply carbon neutral, it is carbon negative – a rarity amongst the 200 other countries in the world.
Even though Bhutan generates 2.2 million tons of carbon dioxide, our forest sequestrates three times that amount. Renewable energy exported from Bhutan alone offsets six million tons of carbon.
Bhutan currently has a national forest cover of 71 %, reinforced by a constitutional mandate of that 60% of the country remains forested indefinitely. Even though Bhutan is carbon negative, it is experiencing the powerful impact of climate change through:
These incidences adversely affect biodiversity and the liveli- hoods of communities. These major challenges need immediate attention from di- verse stakeholders. At such a delicate juncture, RSPN aims to encourage and support research on environmental con- servation and sustainable development strategies through Jigme Khesar Environmental Research Fund for:
The researchers would focus on adapting to impending climate change challenges and leaving a legacy of carbon neutrality for the global community and focus on the community.
At RSPN, we believe a single grain of sand can tip the scale. You can be the grain that tips the scale towards improved environmental conditions and conservation efforts in Bhutan. RSPN has set a target to raise US$ 1.5 million for next 10 years.