Resting peacefully in the serene Eastern Himalayas lies Bhutan,known as the “Land of the Thunder Dragon”. Here, ancient customs harmonize seamlessly with nature, fostering a mindfulway of life. This nation stands out not only for its rich heritage but also for its remarkable accomplishment as the world’s foremost carbon-negative country, setting the standard for environmental stewardship.
Unlike traditional economic measurements, Bhutan’s Gross National Happiness (GNH) index prioritizes the spiritual, physical, and social well-being of its citizens alongside cultural and environmental conservation. This philosophy is enshrined in the constitution, mandating that at least 60% of its land remains forested for future generations, a natural advantage for carbon sequestration.
Bhutan’s vast forests, carpeting 72.3% of its land, serve as both ecological and biodiversity havens, and crucially, massive carbon assets. These verdant expanses absorb more carbon dioxide (CO2) than the country emits from all its activities, making Bhutan a carbon-negative nation.
In Bhutan, forests hold immense spiritual and economic significance. They are revered as sacred places, and their preservation is a cornerstone of the country’s cultural heritage. Economically, forests contribute to a circular economy by providing resources like timber and non-timber forest products, while simultaneously offering vital ecosystem services like water regulation and soil conservation. In a display of their unwavering commitment, Bhutan etched its name in the Guinness World Records in 2015 for tree planting. A dedicated team of 100 volunteers in the capital city, Thimphu, planted a phenomenal 49,672 trees in just one hour.
The country’s abundant rivers generate low-carbon hydroelectricity, which it generously exports to neighboring countries, further reducing regional emissions. In 2021 alone, Bhutan generated nearly 11,000 GWh of electricity and exported over 80%. Their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) project the possibility of offsetting a staggering 22.4 million tonsof CO2 emissions in the region by 2025 through hydroelectricity exports. Bhutan demonstrates a forward-thinking approach by embracing technology and innovation to create more accurate, efficient, secure, and transparent carbon markets. This aligns perfectly with Article 6 of the Paris Agreement.
The world faces a significant challenge. Most countries generate more carbon dioxide than their natural environment can absorb. This imbalance is a major contributor to global climate change. Estimates for 2020 reveal a concerning picture, with China leading the pack as the top emitter, responsible for a staggering 31% of global emissions. The United States follows closely behind at 14%, followed by India (7%), Russia (5%), and Japan (3%). While not among the top emitters, Pakistan also contributes to the issue.
The path to carbon neutrality is a global race, with many countries taking significant strides. Iceland, a frontrunner, utilizes nearly 100% renewable geothermal and hydropower for electricity. Costa Rica, a haven of lush rainforests, aims to be carbon neutral by 2050. This ambitious goal is fueled by a two-pronged strategy. Protecting existing forests, and investing heavily in renewable energy sources. Denmark leads in wind energy with some of the world’s largest offshore wind farms. Sweden, aiming for net-zero emissions by 2045, emphasizes energy efficiency via building retrofits and district heating. Morocco tackles its needs with large-scale concentrated solar power plants, while Singapore, limited by land, explores innovative solutions like waste-to-energy and carbon capture technologies. These diverse approaches from around the world showcase a collective effort, with each nation’s success story offering valuable lessons and inspiration for a global shift towards a sustainable future.
Pakistan faces a significant challenge in reducing its carbon footprint. Despite ranking 30th on the global carbon index, the country still relies heavily on fossil fuels, with 40% of its energy supply coming from imported sources. This dependence contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, particularly in the energy sector (electricity generation) and agriculture (synthetic fertilizer use and crop residue burning). These factors not only contribute to air pollution and health issues but also make Pakistan highly vulnerable to climate change, with intensified rainfall leading to catastrophic floods and economic hardship.
However, there is hope for a brighter future. Learning from Bhutan’s success in forest conservation and eco-tourism can enhance Pakistan’s carbon sinks and promote sustainable development. The country’s vast hydropower potential offers a path to reduce fossil fuel dependence and bolster energy security. Engaging local communities in conservation efforts and education programs can create a powerful force for change, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility for the environment.
Individuals can contribute by choosing public transport, cycling, walking, and carpooling. Simple actions like switching off lights, using renewable energy at home, and adopting a plant-based diet can make a significant impact. Recycling, composting, and tree planting further reduce waste and emissions. While major changes are needed, collective action, from individuals to communities, can pave the way for a sustainable Pakistan. Setting a clear target, like achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, can provide a roadmap for Pakistan’s transition to a sustainable future. Encouraging businesses to adopt sustainable practices and commit to net-zero targets is another vital step on this journey. By implementing these strategies at all levels, Pakistan can build a healthier planet and a more sustainable future for all.
