Nec.gov.bt
Title
NATIONAL ENVIRONMENT COMMISSION: The Royal Government of Bhutan
Description
Our commitment to the environment can be attributed to our system of beliefs and values…and we have placed the environment at the core of development strategy. Although our natural heritage is still largely intact, we cannot take it for granted…it is subject to increasing pressures. Our ecological systems are particularly vulnerable…and pressures will certainly mount in the years ahead. Vision 20/20
The Government and people of Bhutan have shown an extraordinary commitment to the conservation of natural resources and the balance between economic development and environmental conservation-The Middle Path. The preservation of the country’s rich natural resources can be attributed to the enlightened leadership and the strong conservation ethic of the people. His Majesty King Jigme Singye Wangchuck has categorically stated that development must not take place at the expense of our natural resources. The highest legislative body, the National Assembly have mandated the country to maintain forest cover at more than 60% (National Forest Policy, 1974) at all times.
During the Eighth Five Year Plan, the Royal Government formulated the National Environment Strategy (NES). Finalized in 1998, the NES is a policy document designed to guide environmental conservation in Bhutan. In July 1998 an Environment Sector Programme Support (ESPS) was initiated with a focus on biodiversity conservation, pollution abatement and cleaner technology, environmental management and communication and the development of a policy and regulatory framework for the environment sector. Through this programme, the Environmental Assessment Act, 2000 was drafted and approved by the National Assembly. This Act ensures that environmental assessments will be implemented for all activities that have potentially significant environmental impacts. Formulation of the National Environmental Action Plan and the National Environmental Protection Act is underway. During the Eighth Five Year Plan, the emphasis was on developing a policy and regulatory framework; institutionalization of the environmental assessment process; institutional strengthening of relevant environmental organizations such as the National Environment Commission Secretariat and the Nature Conservation Division; and the establishment of the National Biodiversity Centre.
