Bhutan continues to stand out as one of the world’s few carbon negative countries, absorbing significantly more carbon dioxide than it emits through its extensive forest cover and long standing environmental conservation policies.
According to Bhutan latest greenhouse gas inventory, the country emitted about 1.74 million tonnes of greenhouse gases in 2022, while its forests and other land based ecosystems absorbed nearly 11.45 million tonnes. This resulted in net negative emissions of around 9.71 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent.
The country’s forests play a central role in maintaining its carbon negative status. More than 70% of Bhutan’s land area is covered by forests, which act as natural carbon sinks by removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Bhutan Constitution also requires that at least 60% of the country’s land remain under forest cover, providing long term legal protection for its forests.
Bhutan’s environmental approach is closely linked to its development philosophy of Gross National Happiness (GNH), introduced in 1972. Instead of measuring progress solely through economic growth, GNH also considers environmental conservation, health, education, cultural preservation, good governance and community well being.
The latest Gross National Happiness Index, released in 2022, increased to 0.781 from 0.756 in 2015, with nearly half of Bhutan’s population classified as extensively or deeply happy.
Experts say Bhutan’s carbon negative status is supported by its relatively small population, limited industrial activity and strong environmental policies. However, researchers have warned that rising economic growth could increase emissions in the coming decades.
A 2023 modelling study suggested that without additional climate action, Bhutan’s emissions could exceed the carbon absorbed by its forests between 2037 and 2050 under certain development scenarios. The study identified electrification of transport and industry as key measures to help preserve the country’s carbon negative status.
Climate experts say Bhutan’s experience highlights the role of constitutional forest protection, sustainable development and nature based solutions in addressing climate change although they note that its unique geography and development model may not be easily replicated by larger economies.