Bhutan is one of the richest, most biodiverse (>11,000 species) countries in the world, with an
unparalleled array of flora and fauna from the sub-tropical zone with tropical or sub-tropical
vegetation to temperate zone conifer and broadleaf forests, to the alpine zones. The climate
in the Himalayan region is changing more rapidly than the world average, presenting many
challenges to conserving and sustaining this biological richness. .
To best prepare Bhutan for current and future challenges, the Royal University of Bhutan
(RUB) is committed to playing a central role in fundamental research on climate science,
impacts, adaptation and mitigation through the Bhutan Himalayan Climate Studies (BHCS)
project, dedicated to building long-term capacity of climate-related expertise. RUB aims to
establish as an academic hub for climate change studies, especially in the context of the Hindu
Kush Himalaya region, by bridging the gap between climate adaptation research, policy and
operations through the BHCS project that will also coincide with Bhutan graduating from its
Least Developed Country status in 2023.
RUB will present a series of science dialogues, with the first webinar focused on “Bhutan as
a biodiversity wonder in the Himalayas”. The Honorable Minister of Agriculture and Forests,
Royal Government of Bhutan, His Excellency the Resident Coordinator for the UN in Bhutan,
and the Vice Chancellor of RUB will each address the session. The Session Speakers from
Macquarie University, Australia; ICIMOD, Nepal; civil society organization in Bhutan, and
University academics from RUB will share their perspectives on climate change and
biodiversity from international, regional and local levels on the importance of conserving and
sustaining the biodiversity of the healthy ecosystems.
Interested participants can register through the link below till 19th November 2020 and will be
closed by 4.00 PM (BST). Webinar links will be shared with all registered participants.