Royal Society for the Protection of Nature, Bhutan

Since its establishment in 1987, the RSPN has promoted environmental education and advocacy, conservation and sustainable livelihoods, research and emerging issues like climate change, water and solid waste.

RSPN has been working in Phobjika Valley, Wangdue Phodrang District, home to the endangered black-necked crane (Grus nigricollis) for over two decades to conserve the black necked crane and at the same time to promote sustainable livelihoods of the people there.

To meet the environmental and social needs, RSPN initiated projects to promote sustainable ecotourism, alternative energy, and gender and water, waste management, wetland conservation, organic farming, income generating options such as souvenir making and in the conservation of forest resources in close collaboration with the Department of Forest and Park Services.RSPN extended its program to Wamrong and Kangpara communities in Trashigang District and in Zhemgang District focused to community based natural resource management and sustainable livelihoods of the people.

In consultation with the Royal University of Bhutan, the RSPN introduced environmental studies modules in the teacher training colleges of Samtse and Paro.

Environmental education materials were developed and monks and nuns were trained to conduct conservation activities.