Monthly Overview on State of Environment, Bhutan, January 2014
Import, transit, research and development and introduction of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) capable of reproducing in the natural environment will become illegal in Bhutan with the enactment of the biosafety bill. Read more in this January 2014 edition of the Monthly Overview on State of Environment, Bhutan.
ENVIRONMENT
The grant agreement of seven biodiversity conservation and natural resources management projects that would be implemented by the Bhutan Trust Fund for environmental conservation (BTFEC) and forests and park services department was signed.
LAND, AGRICULTURE, GRAZING LANDS AND ANIMAL CARE
Import, transit, research and development and introduction of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) capable of reproducing in the natural environment will become illegal in Bhutan with the enactment of the biosafety bill. The bill, for which the Bhutan agriculture minister will move a motion in the national assembly (NA) on January 27, was dropped from the last session of the first parliament after it decided not to introduce any new legislation.
DAMS
In Bhutan, the drying up of water sources for the last few years in Trashigang has begun to worry both villagers and district officials. Although the people of Tangsibje gewog in Trongsa are aware about the impacts on health and environment the construction of the Nikachu hydropower project would bring, they are hopeful the project will boost the community’s business and agriculture sector.
ENERGY
An Alternative Renewable Energy Policy, which was approved last year in Bhutan, is awaiting implemention under the Energy+ cooperation project. Renewable energy officials said the project was at its preparatory phase.
LIVING RESOURCES
While on the one hand, Bhutan’s wildlife conservation policies have cost many farmers’ their livelihood, on the other hand, some farmers are reported to be involved in rampant poaching of wild animals. In Thimphu region alone, in 2013, forest officials destroyed 121 snares set up to kill musk deer.