The Bhutan Trust Fund for Environmental Conservation, or BTFEC, marked World Environment Day in Gelephu today by announcing a series of conservation and sustainable development initiatives. The organisation signed new grant agreements to support red panda tourism and elephant habitat enhancement in Gelephu Mindfulness City. The event also highlighted investments in wildlife conservation, eco-tourism, and Bhutan’s emerging green construction industry.
Strengthening conservation through partnerships was at the centre of today’s programme in Gelephu.
BTFEC signed a grant agreement with South Africa-based international company, andBeyond, to support the Red Panda conservation Project in Tergola.
Through the partnership, approximately 50,000 US dollars will be mobilised to help promote red panda-based tourism and conservation efforts in the country.
Another grant agreement was signed between BTFEC and the Gelephu Mindfulness City Authority worth 2.5 million ngultrum, for the Enhancement of Elephant Habitat Project, aimed at improving habitats and movement corridors for elephants in the southern region.
To support human-wildlife conflict management and conservation monitoring, BTFEC also handed over CCTV cameras to the Sarpang Divisional Forest Office for tracking elephant movements.
Dasho Kesang Wangdi, Chairperson of BTFEC said, “Today we have been able to support projects that are important not only for Bhutan but can also inspire the wider world. While many people thank the Bhutan Trust Fund for Environmental Conservation, it is our monarchs whom we should be thanking for providing the vision and leadership that make such initiatives possible.”
One of the presentations came from Bhutan Shingzo Limited, a private company developing regenerative engineered timber systems and sustainable green construction solutions. The company is expected to supply engineered timber for major projects, including the upcoming Gelephu International Airport.
BTFEC has committed Nu 78.7 M to support the factory’s groundwork and preparatory activities.
The company is currently procuring equipment, building technical teams, obtaining certifications, and preparing the site for operations. According to company officials, production is expected to begin in 2027.
The event also featured updates from Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary and Royal Manas National Park, both recipients of BTFEC support. The funding is being used to improve ranger facilities, strengthen conservation infrastructure, secure wildlife corridors, and assess eco-tourism opportunities in Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary and Royal Manas National Park.
For endangered species, migrating elephants, and the forests they depend on, the support announced today represents more than just funding. It is an investment in the long-term protection of Bhutan’s rich biodiversity.
Passang Dorji/Karma Wangdi
