February 24, 2025
In a significant step towards a cleaner and more sustainable Bhutan, the Clean Thimphu - Clean Paro Initiative was officially launched on 21st February 2025, coinciding with the Birth Anniversary of His Majesty. The initiative, supported by the Department of Environment and Climate Change (DECC) under the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources, aims to enhance waste management, encourage behavioral change, and promote sustainable waste solutions in Bhutan’s two key urban centers.
The initiative is a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources, Royal Government of Bhutan, Thimphu Thromde, and Paro Dzongkhag, with Bhutan Ecological Society (BES) as the coordinating agency. It is generously funded by the South Asia Co-operative Environment Programme (SACEP) and the World Bank.
Launching the initiative, Lyonpo Gem Tshering, Hon’ble Minister for the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources, emphasized on the importance of collective action in addressing Bhutan’s growing waste management challenges. “This initiative is not just about cleaning our cities but about fostering a long-term behavioral shift towards zero waste. Through strong partnerships and community engagement, we aim to set a precedent for sustainable waste solutions” said Lyonpo..
The Clean Thimphu - Clean Paro Initiative will focus on: Improving waste collection and management systems through local government engagement. Encouraging citizen participation in waste reduction efforts. Enhancing public awareness on sustainable waste practices through education and outreach. Establishing innovative waste solutions in collaboration with international partners.
The launch events took place separately in Thimphu and Paro, with respective local government leaders and key stakeholders in attendance. As part of the initiative, a panel discussion on BBS was held on February 20, 2025, featuring key representatives from SACEP, Thimphu Thromde, Paro Dzongkhag, and DECC to discuss the vision and long-term sustainability of the program.
The Royal Government of Bhutan will foster the achievement of Zero Waste Bhutan 2030, and this initiative is a crucial step towards that goal. The success of Clean Thimphu - Clean Paro will serve as a model for similar programs in other regions of the country.
