Intended Nationally Determined Contribution, 2015 (Bhutan)

The Intended Nationally Determined Contribution submitted by Bhutan states that according to the second national greenhouse gases (GHGs) inventory, Bhutan is a net sink for GHGs. The estimated sequestration capacity of its forest is 6.3 million tons of carbon dioxide, while the emissions for the year 2000 is only 1.6 million tons of carbon dioxide equivalent. This is largely due to huge area of forest cover, low levels of industrial activity and almost 100% hydropower generation of electricity. 

Thus in terms of mitigation, Bhutan intends to remain carbon neutral where emission of GHG will not exceed carbon sequestration by its forests. Bhutan will maintain a minimum of 60% of total land under forest cover for all time in accordance with its constitution. Various other policies and initiatives are in place to contribute to mitigation such as sustainable land management, improved livestock management, promotion of organic agriculture and promotion of zero-emission vehicles.

As a least developed country, Bhutan has a development imperative and will pursue ecologically balanced sustainable development to manage the growing emissions as a result of economic development. In terms of adaptation, Bhutan identified priority adaptation needs including water security, food and nutrition security, sustainable forest management and conservation of biodiversity, strengthen resilience to climate change induced hazards, minimize climate-related health risks, climate-proof transport infrastructure, promote climate resilient livestock farming, enhance climate information services, promote clean and renewable energy generation, and integrate climate resilient strategies in urban and rural settlements.