Photo credit: Punakha by Marcus Westberg
Bhutan, on September 22, 2022, reopened its doors to global guests with the introduction of “Bhutan Believe,” a profound representation of the nation’s spirit and evolutionary vision in sustainable tourism. This brand symbolizes Bhutan’s deep-rooted commitment to the intrinsic bond between humanity and nature. The “Bhutan Believe” ethos encourages visitors to immerse in nature, aligning with the kingdom’s dedication to protect its pristine and sacred landscapes.
Join us as we explore how Bhutan is setting a benchmark for sustainable tourism through its initiatives.
Featured in the 2024 Sustainability Leaders Yearbook
Curious how destinations in other parts of the world approach sustainability? Visit our sustainable tourism showcase collection for additional inspiration and good practice examples!
Carbon-Negative Paradise
As the world’s first carbon-negative country, Bhutan sets an extraordinary example in environmental conservation. The kingdom’s lush forests, covering over 70% of its territory, act as a significant carbon sink, in line with its constitutional commitment to maintain a minimum forest cover.
Exclusive and Experiential Tourism – Mindfulness
Guided by the High-Value Low-Volume (HVLV) policy, Bhutan’s approach to tourism focuses on providing high-quality, exclusive experiences to a limited number of tourists, thereby ensuring a sustainable balance. This model allows visitors to explore Bhutan’s distinctiveness without overwhelming its ecosystems. The daily Sustainable Development Fee is a key element in this strategy, aiding in reducing the environmental impact of tourism.
Collaborative Sustainability
Bhutan’s sustainability efforts extend to empowering local communities by involving them in tourism-related decisions. Community-driven initiatives, including homestays, provide not only authentic experiences but also contribute to the economic wellbeing of local families, making tourism a force for positive communal change.
Sustainable Development Fee
The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) is a cornerstone of Bhutan’s sustainable tourism framework. This fee, currently at a reduced rate of USD 100 per day until 2027, supports various conservation and community development initiatives, ensuring tourism positively impacts the preservation of natural resources and cultural heritage.
Discover more:
Bhutan’s journey in sustainable tourism is an ongoing and evolving story. We invite you to explore further the unique experiences and initiatives that Bhutan offers. Follow the links below to learn more about how Bhutan is setting a global standard in mindful and sustainable tourism.
For more information, visit https://bhutan.travel/
Did you enjoy our sustainability leader spotlight on Destination Bhutan? Thanks for sharing!
Curious how destinations in other parts of the world approach sustainability? Visit our sustainable tourism showcase collection for additional inspiration!
