Sustainability and Green Initiative towards Happiness:Embracing GNH in our place
Bhutan’s tourism tag-line is “Bhutan Believe” and certainly there are few other countries in the world quite so rooted in a sense of believe as Bhutan. His Majesty the king Jigme Singye Wangchuck firmly believed that happiness is an indicator, and a sign of progressive development for the Bhutanese people. He also believed in the legitimacy of public discussion in defining Bhutan’s development goals.The concept of Gross National Happiness (GNH) was promulgated by His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck, the Fourth King of Bhutan in the early 1970s. When His Majesty spoke about GNH at the time, he questioned the prevailing measurement system that Gross Domestic Product (GDP) alone could deliver happiness and well-being to society. In addition, Bhutan’s ancient legal code of 1629 stated that,“if the government cannot create happiness for its people, then there is no purpose for government to exist”.
Pay per day- Bhutan's sustainable development fee
While European tourist hot spots are still largely exploring the concept of implementing daily fees to curb the daily influx of visitors, Bhutan made this a reality back in 1974 when tourists were first permitted to enter the secluded country, bringing with its high cost to enter the notion of being earth’s “last Shangri-La”.
Recognizing the fragility of its ecosystems and the crucial need of preserving cultural authenticity, Bhutan has remained firm on its unique “high value, low volume” tourism policy since 1974, with a total of merely 287 visitors entering the country during that year.
Due to the pre-existing consciousness of the importance of a balanced approach to growth, the government imposed strict limits on visitor numbers and, starting in 1991, required visitors from overseas to pay a fee of at least $250 per day to cover the cost of accommodations, meals, a mandatory tour guide, including the $65 “Sustainable Development Fee” (SDF).
Green Bhutan: Why not a Green Planet?
Central to Bhutan’s sustainability agenda is its tireless dedication to environmental conservation. With an ambitious target of maintaining at least 60% forest cover, Bhutan has become one of the world’s most forested countries. Its lush landscapes bear witness to this commitment.
Additionally, Bhutan has banned plastic bags since 1999, a remarkable feat that has minimized plastic waste and inspired other nations, such as certain Indian states, to follow suit. Bhutan’s focus on renewable energy, particularly hydropower, has not only met its domestic energy needs but also allowed the country to become the world’s first and only carbon negative country.
In the heart of Paro:Bhutan lies our eco-conscious hotel, a place where guests can reconnect with nature while knowing that sustainability is at the core of our operations. As we strive to incorporate the importance of our vision and country’s commitment to environmental preservation and happiness, our green initiatives are not just about reducing our carbon footprint, but about fostering a harmonious relationship with the surrounding environment.In fact our hotel is affiliated with climate friendly travel and we are working closely towards green initiative.
One of the shining stars of our green initiatives is our partnership with local communities. Through various conservation projects and initiatives, we strive to give back to the land that sustains us. Whether it’s pporting reforestation efforts or educating our guests about the fragile ecosystem of our country, we aim to be stewards of this precious land for generations to come:
We Provide brochures, signage, and leaflets in guest rooms and common areas detailing the importance of protecting the local ecosystem, such as plants and water resources.We incorporate Eco-friendly practices such as recycling programs, energy-efficient lighting, water-saving measures, and locally sourced products.
In the serene and protected forest of Bhutan, we have found inspiration to create happiness that incorporate the ideals of sustainability, mindfulness, and respect for the environment. Our hope is that each guest who walks through our doors will not only experience the beauty of Bhutan but also leave with a renewed appreciation for the importance of preserving our planet for future generations.
Join us on this journey towards a greener, brighter future—one where sustainability and luxury go hand in hand, and where every choice we make contributes to the well-being of our planet and all its inhabitants. Come, immerse yourself in the magic of Bhutan and be a part of our commitment to living in harmony with nature. Together, let’s protect this precious paradise for all to enjoy.
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