𝐓𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐆𝐚𝐫𝐛𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐚𝐬 𝐚 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐜𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐁𝐡𝐮𝐭𝐚𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐄𝐧𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐄𝐧𝐯𝐢𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐒𝐭𝐞𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩

Bhutan stands out on the global stage as one of the few countries with carbon-negative status, meaning it absorbs more carbon dioxide than it emits. This remarkable achievement, coupled with its reputation as an environmental champion, has positioned Bhutan as a model for sustainable development. However, despite these accolades, the country faces significant challenges in waste management, which, if addressed properly, could further solidify its image as a global leader in environmental stewardship.

Waste management is a critical issue worldwide, impacting both public health and environmental preservation. In Bhutan, as elsewhere, the responsibility for waste lies with human behavior—we produce more waste than we can manage. This problem is compounded by inadequate infrastructure and lack of effective waste sorting and recycling systems, leading to valuable materials being discarded in landfills instead of being repurposed.

The solution lies in adopting a waste hierarchy that prioritizes prevention, followed by reuse, reduction, recovery, and recycling. This methodology is not just a guide but a framework that businesses and communities in Bhutan can follow to minimize waste and maximize recycling efforts. By doing so, Bhutan can mitigate the environmental impacts of waste, particularly the greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to global climate change.

In Bhutan, the biggest obstacle to effective waste management is the lack of adequate infrastructure for waste collection and recycling. The current system fails to efficiently sort and recycle waste, leading to a significant amount of recyclable materials ending up in landfills. This inefficiency not only wastes valuable resources but also undermines Bhutan’s environmental goals.

To address this issue, a paradigm shift in how waste is managed in Bhutan is necessary. The Thromdes (municipalities) should take the lead by purchasing waste directly from households and other sources. By collecting and buying waste at the doorstep, the Thromdes can ensure that materials are sorted and recycled appropriately, transforming what is currently seen as garbage into valuable resources. This approach not only reduces the amount of waste sent to landfills but also creates economic opportunities by turning waste into raw materials for new projects.

This concept of waste as a resource is not new; it is already being implemented in various parts of the world where waste management has evolved into an industry that supports livelihoods. In Bhutan, this approach could be the key to not only managing waste more effectively but also enhancing the country’s global image as an environmental leader. By viewing waste as a resource rather than a burden, Bhutan can take significant strides toward sustainability.

Currently, the situation in Bhutan is quite the opposite of what it should be. Instead of incentivizing waste management, the Thromdes charge residents collection fees and other municipal charges. This system does little to encourage recycling or waste reduction. Instead, the Thromdes should be offering incentives for waste sorting and recycling, including paying residents for the waste they produce. Such a system would not only reduce municipal waste but also cut down on greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to Bhutan’s overall environmental goals.

The government has a critical role to play in this transformation. The relevant ministries must rethink and redesign waste management strategies, instructing Thromdes to adopt systems that promote recycling and waste reduction. By doing so, Bhutan can continue to lead by example, showing the world how even a small nation can make a big difference in the fight against climate change.

Moreover, implementing proper waste management and recycling systems will further enhance Bhutan’s reputation as an environmental champion. As a carbon-negative country, Bhutan already holds a unique position in the global community. By effectively managing waste and turning garbage into a resource, Bhutan can showcase a comprehensive approach to environmental conservation that goes beyond carbon neutrality.

Waste management is not just about reducing the amount of trash that ends up in landfills; it is about rethinking our relationship with waste. By adopting a more sustainable approach to waste management, Bhutan can reduce its environmental impact, create economic opportunities, and continue to set an example for the rest of the world. The country’s commitment to environmental stewardship is already well recognized, but by addressing its waste management challenges head-on, Bhutan can take its environmental leadership to the next level.

Bhutan has the opportunity to enhance its global image as an environmental leader by adopting innovative waste management practices. By treating garbage as a resource, Bhutan can reduce waste, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and create new economic opportunities. It is time for the government and the Thromdes to take bold steps in this direction, ensuring that Bhutan remains a beacon of environmental stewardship for future generations.

Tshering, Thimphu