Beginning this year, the Jigme Singye Wangchuck Outstanding Environmental Stewardship Award extends its recognition beyond Bhutan to honour exceptional global environmental contributions. Accion Andina, a regional initiative working across the Andes, received the award alongside the Bhutan Trust Fund for Environmental Conservation. Her Royal Highness Princess Chimi Yangzom Wangchuck graced the ceremony on Friday.
Over the past eight years, Accion Andina planted more than 12.5 million native trees across South America.
The initiative has restored 5,000 hectares of high-Andean ecosystems and aims to restore one million hectares.
Representatives said the award reminds them of the shared duty to protect fragile mountain ecosystems.
They added that recognition from Bhutan, known for its strong conservation values, motivates them to deepen their restoration efforts.
President and Co-Founder of Accion Andina, Constantino Aucca Chutas said, “To receive this award is truly an honour. The high Andes and the Himalayas are vital lifelines for our planet, and we must share our efforts and work together to protect them. Thank you, Bhutan, for your commitment to planting trees and promoting a healthier environment.”
Another award recipient, the Bhutan Trust Fund for Environmental Conservation, has played a key role in sustaining Bhutan’s protected areas.
The Trust Fund has supported major conservation projects for the past 25 years.
Karma Tshering (PHD), the managing director of BTFEC said, “Today, we as environmentalists are able to enjoy a great opportunity to showcase, demonstrate, and support the environment in the country. Having access to finance, grants, and going to global meetings, we feel proud that we are from Bhutan, a country very well known for its environment.”
Expanding the award’s reach, the Bhutan Ecological Society aims to recognise impactful conservation work taking place worldwide.
Sangay Chozom
Edited by Sangay Chezom
