National Adaptation Plan (NAP) of the Kingdom of Bhutan 2023

1 Mr. Dawa Yoezer Ugyen Wangchuck Institute for Conservation and Environmental Research.

2 Mr. Dorji Lhamo Royal University of Bhutan.

3 Ms. Dorji Wangmo Flood Engineering and Management Division, Department of Engineering Services, Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport.

4 Mr. Karchen Dorji Environment Unit, Department of Industry, Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Employment.

5 Mr. Karma C. Nyedrup Department of Environment and Climate Change, Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources.

6 Dr. Karma Tenzin Center for Research in Respiratory and Neuroscience, Khesar Gyalpo University of Medical Sciences of Bhutan.

7 Ms. Karma Uden Programme Division, Tarayana Foundation.

8 Ms. Karma Wangmo Water Resources Coordination Division, Department of Water, Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources.

9 Mr. Karma Wangdi Engineering Division, Department of Public Health, Ministry of Health.

10 Mr. Kencho Dorji National Herbarium Program, National Biodiversity Center.

11 Mr. Kinley Tshering Forest Protection and Enforcement Division, Department of Forests and Park Services, Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources.

12 Mr. Lakey Agriculture Research and Innovation Division, Department of Agriculture, Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock.

13 Mr. Lobzang Tempa Department of Environment and Climate Change, Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources.

14 Ms. Monika Thapa Department of Civil Engineering and Architecture, College of Science and Technology, Royal University of Bhutan.

15 Mr. Pema Namgay Ghalley Association of Bhutanese Industries.

16 Mr. Pema Thinley Department of Hydropower and Power Systems, Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Employment.

17 Ms. Phuntsho Seldon Wangmo Department of Planning, Budget and Performance, Ministry of Finance.

18 Mr. Sangay Dorji Local Governance Development Division, Department of Local Governance and Disaster Management, Ministry of Home Affairs.

19 Mr. Sangay Tenzin Hydrology and Water Resources Services Division, National Center for Hydrology and Meteorology.

20 Mr. Sonam Dagay Department of Environment and Climate Change, Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources.

21 Ms. Sonam Yangzom Environment Section, Department of Roads, Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport.

22 Mr. Tenzin Khorlo Department of Water, Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources.

23 Mr. Tsheten Dorji Sustainable Livelihood Division, Royal Society for Protection of Nature.

24 Ms. Tshewang Lhamo Department of water, Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources.

25 Mr. Tshering Tashi Department of Environment and Climate Change, Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources.

26 Ms. Tshering Yangzom Department of Environment and Climate Change, Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources.

27 Mr. Tshering Wangchen Agriculture Research and Innovation Division, Department of Agriculture, Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock.

28 Ms. Yeshi Dema Policy and Planning Division, Ministry of Finance.

29 Mr. Yeshi Namgyel Department of Local Governance and Disaster Management, Ministry of Home Affairs.

30 Mr. Sonam Gyelpo Department of Environment and Climate Change, Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources

31 Mr. Liam Fee Bureau for Policy and Programme Support, United Nations Development Programme.

32 Mr. Netra Binod Sharma Environment and Livelihoods, United Nations Development Programme.

33 Ms. Chimmi Dema Environment and Livelihoods, United Nations Development Programme.

34 Ms. Tshering Yangtsho Environment and Livelihoods, United Nations Development Programme. Table of Contents PREFACE ..................................................................................................................................................... III STATEMENT ON INCLUSION OF AN ADAPTATION COMMUNICATION IN THE NATIONAL ADAPTATION PLAN IV ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS ............................................................................................................... VI FOREWORD ................................................................................................................................................. II EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ................................................................................................................................ III PART I: FIRST NATIONAL ADAPTATION PLAN OF BHUTAN ............................................................................ 1 1. INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................................................ 2 1.1 VISION, PURPOSE, AND OBJECTIVES ...................................................................................................................... 2 1.2 NAP MANDATES AND POLICY ALIGNMENT ............................................................................................................. 3 PERIODICITY OF NAP ............................................................................................................................................... 4 1.3 INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENTS FOR CLIMATE CHANGE ............................................................................................ 5 1.4 NATIONAL CIRCUMSTANCES ................................................................................................................................ 7 1.5 THE NAP PROCESS AND PREPARATION OF THE NAP .............................................................................................. 13 2. IMPACTS RISKS AND VULNERABILITIES ................................................................................................... 18 2.1 SUMMARY OF OBSERVED AND PROJECTED CLIMATE ............................................................................................... 18 2.2 CLIMATE RISK ASSESSMENTS ............................................................................................................................. 30 3. ADAPTATION PRIORITIES, NEEDS AND ENABLING ACTIVITIES .................................................................. 48 3.1 ADAPTATION PRIORITIES AND NEEDS................................................................................................................... 49 3.2 ENABLING ACTIVITIES ....................................................................................................................................... 79 4. IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGY................................................................................................................. 88 4.1 INTEGRATION OF NAP INTO DEVELOPMENT PLANNING ........................................................................................... 88 4.2 APPROACHES TO IMPLEMENTING THE ADAPTATION PRIORITIES.................................................................................. 95 4.3 POTENTIAL FINANCING SOURCES ....................................................................................................................... 98 4.4 COMMUNICATION AND OUTREACH ................................................................................................................... 100 4.5 ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES ........................................................................................................................... 101 5. MONITORING AND EVALUATION ...........................................................................................................102 5.1 MONITORING AND EVALUATION OF THE NAP ..................................................................................................... 102 5.2 M&E TO SUPPORT NATIONAL REPORTING UNDER THE CLIMATE CHANGE POLICY....................................................... 104 5.3 M&E TO SUPPORT INTERNATIONAL REPORTING UNDER THE PARIS AGREEMENT ........................................................ 106 5.4 DEVELOPING A NATIONAL M&E SYSTEM FOR CLIMATE CHANGE ............................................................................. 106 REFERENCES..............................................................................................................................................107 ANNEXURES ..............................................................................................................................................110 ANNEX 1: SUMMARY OF ESTIMATED COSTS .................................................................................................... 111 ANNEX 2: LIST OF CONSULTATIONS IN PREPARING THE NAP ........................................................................................ 121 ANNEX 3: KEY MESSAGES FROM REGIONAL AND NATIONAL CONSULTATIONS ON THE NAP ................................................. 137 PART II: .....................................................................................................................................................141 DETAILED PRIORITIES AND NEEDS FOR ADAPTATION .................................................................................141 i DETAILED ADAPTATION PRIORITIES...........................................................................................................142 1. WATER .......................................................................................................................................................... 142 2. AGRICULTURE AND LIVESTOCK............................................................................................................................ 149 3. FORESTS AND BIODIVERSITY ............................................................................................................................... 164 4. HUMAN SETTLEMENTS AND CLIMATE SMART CITIES ............................................................................................. 177 5. HEALTH ......................................................................................................................................................... 184 6. ENERGY ......................................................................................................................................................... 191 7. CLIMATE SERVICES AND DISASTER RISK REDUCTION ............................................................................................... 194 DETAILED ENABLING ACTIVITIES ................................................................................................................199 A.POLICY & INSTITUTIONAL ................................................................................................................................... 199 B. M&E OF NAP PROCESS ................................................................................................................................... 203 C. RESEARCH AND DATA ....................................................................................................................................... 206 D. CAPACITY BUILDING......................................................................................................................................... 209 E. EDUCATION AND AWARENESS ............................................................................................................................ 211 APPENDIX I: DETAILS ON RESEARCH TOPICS FOR ENABLING ACTIVITY C. RESEARCH AND DATA ........................................... 213 List of text boxes Box 1: Guiding Principles of Bhutan's Climte Change Policy. ..................................................................................... 4 Box 2: Key messages from regional and national consultations on the NAP .......................................................... 17 Box 3: Gender considerations in the NAP process. .................................................................................................. 49 Box 4: National transformative initiatives and implications for low emission and climate resilient development 91 Box 5: Engaging the private sector in adaptation. ................................................................................................... 93 Box 6: Avoiding maladaptation in Bhutan. ............................................................................................................... 95 ii PREFACE The first National Adaptation Plan (NAP) from Bhutan was prepared to (i) identify the adaptation plans, priorities and needs and (ii) enhance the process for planning and implementing these adaptation priorities in the medium to long run. The first NAP builds on Bhutan’s experience in adaptation through the National Adaptation Programme of Action (NAPA) and other adaptation programs and projects. The NAP has been prepared in alignment with the requirements of Bhutan’s Climate Change Policy 2020 to build the resilience and reduce vulnerability in Bhutan. The NAP was prepared following the NAP Technical Guidelines of the LDC Expert Group (LEG) of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the guidelines also informed the establishment of the NAP process in Bhutan. The first NAP from Bhutan is also responsive to the Paris Agreement with regards to the Adaptation Communication and reporting under the Enhanced Transparency Framework. As stated in the 1st and 2nd Nationally Determined Contributions from Bhutan, the Adaptation Communication is being conveyed through this NAP. The monitoring and evaluation component of the NAP and NAP process has also been designed to facilitate both national and international reporting requirements under the Climate Change Policy of Bhutan 2020 and the Paris Agreement respectively. In this regard the first NAP is intended to guide the planning of adaptation in Bhutan through identification of priorities and needs and their implementation through integration into development plans at all levels. In this regard, the NAP will be prepared and updated every five years at the same frequency as the NDC to inform the five-year development planning process in Bhutan. The NAP is also intended to convey the priorities and needs for adaptation in Bhutan internationally through the channels provided under the UNFCCC and the Paris Agreement. iii STATEMENT ON INCLUSION OF AN ADAPTATION COMMUNICATION IN THE NATIONAL ADAPTATION PLAN In accordance with the Bhutan’s Climate Change Policy 2020 and as stated in the 1st NDC and 2nd NDC, Bhutan’s first Adaptation Communication is being conveyed as part of this first National Adaptation Plan (NAP). The Adaptation Communication is being conveyed as part of the NAP under the flexibility of vehicles for submission provided in Article 7 paragraphs 10 and 11 of the Paris Agreement. The Adaptation Communication from Bhutan is being submitted as part of the NAP to: i) reduce the burden of preparing two separate documents containing the same priorities and needs. The adaptation priorities and needs were prepared as part of a comprehensive national adaptation planning process (NAP Process) established in response to national and local needs and guided by the guidelines for the NAP process established under the UNFCCC through decision 5/CP.17. ii) avoid confusion among local, national, and international stakeholders on the placement of the same adaptation priorities and needs in two separate nationally endorsed documents. Therefore, in response to paragraph 10 of Decision 9/CMA.1 the identification of the elements of Bhutan’s First Adaptation Communication to the Paris Agreement as within the first NAP is as follows1: Elements of an adaptation Corresponding sections of the First National Adaptation communication Plan (in Annex to Decision 9/CMA.1) (a) National circumstances, Chapter 1 of NAP institutional arrangements and legal frameworks; (b) Impacts, risks and vulnerabilities, as Chapter 2 of NAP appropriate; (c) National adaptation priorities, Chapter 1 describes the overall national priorities and strategies, policies, plans, goals and policies. actions; Chapter 3 of NAP summarises the adaptation priorities and plans. Chapter 4 presents the strategies for implementation of the adaptation priorities and needs. (d) Implementation and support needs Chapter 3 of NAP contains a description and summary of, and provision of support to, of the support needs. Part II contains the detailed developing country Parties; tables for adaptation support needs (e) Implementation of adaptation A stock take for the NAP process was conducted prior actions and plans, including: to preparation of the NAP and contains an overview of 1 As per decision 9/CMA.1, elements referred to in paragraph (a) through (d) of the annex should be provided and elements in paragraphs (e) through (i) are additional elements to be provided as appropriate. iv the progress, gaps, barriers, challenges, and lessons. The document is available separately on the Bhutan Climate Portal developed as part of enabling activities to support Bhutan’s NAP process. Visit www.nec.gov.bt for the link to the Bhutan Climate Platform. (i) Progress and results achieved; As above. The 2nd NAP/Adaptation Communication will contain any future outcomes as appropriate. (ii) Adaptation efforts of developing As above. The 2nd NAP/Adaptation Communication will countries for recognition; contain any future outcomes as appropriate. (iii) Cooperation on enhancing As above. The 2nd NAP/Adaptation Communication will adaptation at the national, regional contain any future outcomes as appropriate. and international level, as appropriate; (iv) Barriers, challenges and gaps As above. The 2nd NAP/Adaptation Communication will related to the implementation of contain any future outcomes as appropriate. adaptation; (v) Good practices, lessons learned As above. The 2nd NAP/Adaptation Communication will and information-sharing; contain any future outcomes as appropriate. (vi) Monitoring and evaluation; Chapter 5 of NAP and as above. The 2nd NAP/Adaptation Communication will contain any future outcomes as appropriate. (f) Adaptation actions and/or Several adaptation priorities such as diversification of economic diversification plans, energy sources, securing watersheds, conservation of including those that result in forests, sustainable land and soil management, and mitigation co-benefits; promotion of green infrastructure in urban areas result in mitigation co-benefits. See Chapter 3 for details. (g) How adaptation actions contribute Several adaptation priorities as detailed in Chapter 3 to other international frameworks such as for forest and biodiversity as aligned with the and/or conventions; NBSAP contribute to the Convention on Biological Diversity. Priorities identified for disaster risk reduction are in line with the National Disaster Risk Management Strategy and the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (h) Gender-responsive adaptation Gender considerations, traditional and local knowledge action and traditional knowledge, are integrated into the priorities and plans and knowledge of indigenous peoples throughout various chapters of the NAP. Text Box 3 and local knowledge systems describes how gender considerations were included related to adaptation, where the NAP. appropriate; (i) Any other information related to -- adaptation. v ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS ABI Association of Bhutanese Industries ETF Enhanced transparency framework (under the Paris Agreement ADCOM Adaptation communication FI Financial Institutions BAFRA Bhutan Agriculture and Food Regulatory Authority FYP Five-year plan BCCI Bhutan Chamber of Commerce and GCF Green Climate Fund Industries GEF Global Environment Facility BTFEC Bhutan Trust Fund for Environmental GovTech Government Technology Agency Conservation INDC Intended Nationally Determined BTR Biennial Transparency Report Contribution C4 Climate Change Coordination IPCC Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Committee Change CFMG Community Forest Management KGUMSB Khesar Gyalpo University of Medical Groups Sciences of Bhutan CMA Conference of the Parties serving as LDC Least developed country the meeting of the Parties to the Paris Agreement LEDS Low emission development strategy COP Conference of the Parties LEG Least Developed Countries Expert Group CSO Civil Society Organisation LG Local Government CST College of Science and Technology LTS Long-term low greenhouse gas DAMC Department of Agricultural emission development strategies Marketing and Cooperatives MBOs Mutual Benefit Organisations DECC Department of Environment and Climate Change (Secretariat of NEC) MoFAET Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade DoLGDM Department of Local Governance and Disaster Management MoAL Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock DGPC Druk Green Power Corporation MoENR Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources DHI Druk Holdings and Investment MoICE Ministry of Industry, Commerce and DHPS Department of Hydropower and Employment Power Systems MoH Ministry of Health DoA Department of Agriculture MoHA Ministry of Home Affairs DoFPS Department of Forests and Park Services DoI Department of Industries MoIT Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport DoL Department of Livestock MRG Mainstream Reference Group DPO Disabled People’s Organisation of Bhutan NAP National Adaptation Plan DRC Department of Revenue and NAPA National Adaptation Programme of Customs Action DRE Department of Renewable Energy NBC National Biodiversity Center vi NCAH National Center for Animal Health REDD+ Reducing emissions from deforestation; reducing emissions NCHM National Center for Hydrology and from forest degradation; Meteorology conservation of forest carbon stocks; NCWC National Commission for Women and sustainable management of forests; Children and enhancement of forest carbon NDC Nationally Determined Contribution stocks (decision 1/CP.16, para. 70) NEC National Environment Commission RENEW Respect, Educate, Nurture and Empower Women NECS National Environment Commission Secretariat RGOB Royal Government of Bhutan NHRDC National Highland Research RLDC Regional Livestock Development Development Center Center NKRA National Key Result Areas RMA Royal Monetary Authority NPPC National Plant Protection Center RNR Renewable Natural Resources NPRDC National Poultry Research and RSSC Royal Society for Senior Citizens Development Centre SDG Sustainable Development Goals NRDCAN National Research and Development SLM Sustainable Land Management Centre for Animal Nutrition SNC Second National Communication NRDCL Natural Resources Development TNC Third National Communication Corporation Ltd. UNDP United Nations Development NSB National Statistics Bureau Programme NSSC National Soil Service Center UNFCCC United Nations Convention on NWFP Non-Wood Forest product Climate Change OCASC Office of Cabinet Affairs and Strategic V&A Vulnerability and Adaptation Coordination VDCP Vector-borne Disease Control OYE Organisation for Youth Program Empowerment WASH Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene PA Paris Agreement WBIs Wood- Based Industries PWD Persons With Disabilities YDF Youth Development Fund RCDC Royal Center for Disease Control Glossary of Dzongkha Terms Dzongkhag District Geog Smaller administrative unit comprising multiple villages ii FOFROERW EWORODRD Climate Climate change change is isa along-term long-termthreat threattotosustainable sustainable development development and the wellbeing wellbeing of ofBhutan Bhutanandanditsits citizens. citizens. TheThe achievements achievements of of Bhutan Bhutan overover the past the past decades decades in in sustainable sustainable development development may bemay be derailed derailed by the by the adverse adverse impacts ofimpacts climate of climateThe change. change. first The first National National Adaptation Adaptation Plan Plan (NAP) (NAP)onbuilds builds on Bhutan’s Bhutan’s with experience experience with with adaptation adaptation the with the National National Adaptation Adaptation ProgrammeProgramme of Action of Action (NAPA)(NAPA) and and other other adaptationadaptation initiatives. initiatives. TheThe NAPNAP presents presents Bhutan’s Bhutan’s national national circumstances, circumstances, vision, vision, and and objectivesforforadaptation objectives adaptationininthe themedium mediumto to long-term, long-term, the key the key priorities priorities and and needs for needs for adaptation adaptation and theand the enabling enabling activities activities needed needed to support to a support long- a long-term term adaptation adaptation process. process. The The NAP NAP will informwill inform national national stakeholders stakeholders aboutpriorities about national nationalfor priorities for adaptation adaptation and guide theand guide the of implementation implementation of these these priorities priorities through throughinto integration integration national,into national, regional, regional, sectoral, and sectoral, local plans. and local plans. the NAP Internationally, Internationally, will alsothe NAP our inform will also inform our development development partners partners who support who Bhutan’s support development Bhutan’s development process about process our needs for about climateour needs for change climate change adaptation. adaptation. This This firstfirst NAPNAP fromfrom BhutanBhutan also also serves serves as our as firstour first AdaptationAdaptation Communication Communication under theunder Paris the Paris Agreement Agreement to convey ourtopriorities convey our prioritiesforand needs and needs adaptation. for The adaptation. decisionThe decisionthe to submit to NAP submit asthe theNAP as the Adaptation Adaptation is based Communication Communication on the is need based toon the reduceneed thetoburden reduceofthe burden of preparing preparing separate separate reports reports and to avoid and to avoid confusion between different documents containing the same national confusion between different documents containing the same national adaptation priorities and needs. In adaptation priorities and addition, needs. the In addition, monitoring andthe monitoring reporting chapterandof the reporting NAP has chapter been of the NAP developed to has beenfuture facilitate developed to reporting facilitate future requirements reporting under on adaptation requirements on adaptation the Enhanced under the Transparency Enhanced Framework Transparency of the Paris Framework Agreement. of the Paris Agreement. The NAP was developed in line with national processes and priorities and was guided by guidance from the The NAP UNFCCC was by a process developed in ine national teamwith national as part processes of the NAP and priorities readiness project.and Thewas NAPguided by guidance preparation from was delayed thethe over UNFCCC process past few years by duea to national the team COVID-19 as part of the NAP Pandemic. readinessthe Nevertheless, project. The NAP preparation preparation of the was NAP followed delayed over a rigorous the of process past few echnicalyears due to the COVID-19 assessments, Pandemic. consultations Nevertheless, with a wide range ofthe preparation stakeholdersofacross the NAP followed different sectors, a rigorous national process agencies to of technical regional assessments, and local consultations planners, civil society, andwith the aprivate wide sector. range of stakeholders across different sectors, national agencies to regional and local planners, civil society, and I would like tosector. the private express my appreciation to the NAP drafting team, the thematic working groups, and the project support team from the NEC Secretariat and UNDP and all stakeholders and reviewers for their I would likefor contribution to express producing mythe first appreciation NAP tofromthe NAP I Bhutan. drafting wouldteam, theto also like thematic working thank the UNDP andgroups, GCF forthe and the projectsupport financial supportforteam from the Bhutan’s NAP NEC Secretariat readiness and I program. UNDP lookand all stakeholders forward to andsupport continued reviewersforfor thetheir NAP contribution process and for producing of implementation thethe first NAPNAPto from reduce Bhutan. I would Bhutan’s also like to vulnerability to thank climatethe UNDP and GCF for change. the financial support for Bhutan’s NAP readiness program. I look forward to continued support for the NAP process and implementation of the NAP to reduce Bhutan’s vulnerability to climate change. Lyonpo Dr. Tandin Dorji Chairman, National Environment Commission and Minister, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade. Lyonpo Dr. Tandin Dorji Chairman, National Environment Commission and Minister, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade. vii ii EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Bhutan has made remarkable socio-economic advancements over the past decades and is on the cusp of graduating from its status as a least developed country. However, the adverse impacts of climate change can reverse Bhutan’s hard-won gains in socio economic development and poverty alleviation. The COVID-19 pandemic has negatively affected the economy in the short to medium term but the threat from climate change will remain for the long term with impacts and risks increasing over the coming decades. It is in view of this long-term threat from climate change to the wellbeing and prosperity of Bhutan and its people that the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) has been developed. Bhutan’s NAP has been prepared following international guidance and support from the UN Framework Convention of Climate Change (UNFCCC) process and is based on national development objectives and priorities. The NAP contains five chapters covering (i) national circumstances and objectives for adaptation, (ii) overview of climate projections, impacts and vulnerabilities, (iii) a comprehensive list of adaptation needs and priorities for the country, (iv) implementation strategy, and (v) a framework for monitoring and evaluation. Introduction: Long term adaptation and the NAP process The process to formulate and implement NAPs, known as the “NAP process”, was established under the UNFCCC to facilitate adaptation in least developed countries and other developing countries. The agreed objectives of the NAP process are: a) To reduce vulnerability to the impacts of climate change, by building adaptive capacity and resilience; b) To facilitate the integration of climate change adaptation, in a coherent manner, into relevant new and existing policies, programmes and activities, in particular development planning processes and strategies, within all relevant sectors and at different levels, as appropriate. The principles of the NAP process are that national adaptation planning will be country driven, gender sensitive, participatory, and fully transparent, taking into consideration vulnerable groups, communities, and ecosystems. The process is to be based on and guided by the best available science, taking into account traditional and indigenous knowledge. As climate change is a long-term challenge to socio-economic development, adaptation planning and implementation must become a regular consideration in economic and development planning processes. It is expected that over the coming decades several NAPs will be developed in an iterative and progressive manner to inform and guide adaptation and development. Therefore, the NAP process seeks to enhance coherence of adaptation and development planning to reduce duplication of efforts and enhance synergies. The long-term adaptation process also requires going beyond simply identifying and implementing adaptation projects. To ensure a sustainable and effective NAP process, the enabling environment to support informed adaptation planning and implementation on a continual basis must also be strengthened. Based on these principles and ground realities, Bhutan’s vision for climate change action as defined in the Climate Change Policy is: iii “A prosperous, resilient and carbon neutral Bhutan where the pursuit of gross national happiness for the present and future generations is secure under a changing climate.” The purpose of the NAP is: “to protect the health, lives, livelihoods and happiness of the people of Bhutan from the adverse impacts of climate change by building adaptive capacity and enhancing resilience to reduce vulnerability and by integrating adaptation actions into the development planning process at all levels.” The objectives of Bhutan’s NAP process are to: 1. Ensure a continuous, progressive, and iterative process to assess the vulnerability and adaptation needs across all sectors and levels in Bhutan recognising the special needs of vulnerable groups through the National Adaptation Plan process. 2. Promote the integration of climate change adaptation planning and implementation of adaptation actions into national and local level plans where possible. 3. Enhance the climate information and knowledge system to support a long-term, iterative process of adaptation planning and implementation. 4. Assess progress in adaptation including measurement of resilience and to climate change. The NAP as a vehicle for Bhutan’s “Adaptation Communication” While the NAP process was established under the UNFCCC to facilitate adaptation at a national level, Adaptation Communications were defined under the Paris Agreement to enhance adaptation action and provide a way for Parties to internationally communicate their adaptation priorities and needs. The Paris Agreement allows flexibilities for parties to submit these adaptation priorities and needs through several vehicles including as stand-alone Adaptation Communications, as a part of the National Communications or as a component of Nationally Determined Contributions. Bhutan has decided to submit the Adaptation Communication to the Paris Agreement as part of its NAP. This is intended to reduce the burden of formulating two separate documents on adaptation priorities and avoid any potential for confusion in communication of adaptation priorities to national and international stakeholders. Towards this end, a “Statement on inclusion of an Adaptation Communication in the National Adaptation Plan” is presented in this NAP document. Climate Risks and Vulnerabilities The climate risks and vulnerabilities are presented in Chapter 2. While long-term historical climate data is not available in Bhutan, recent analysis using alternative global datasets provides historical and projected climate scenarios. Analysis by National Center for Hydrology and Meteorology (NCHM) indicates an increasing trend in temperature from 1976-2005 over and annual average temperature has increased by 0.8 degrees Celsius. Seasonal temperature has also increased with winters warming by 1.3 degrees. Rainfall patterns indicate a decrease in average annual rainfall and high seasonal variability with wet monsoons and dry winters. Projections of future climate indicate a consistent increase in temperature over the country based on two projections. One projection (RCP 4.5) indicates warming of about 0.8°C– 2.8°C during 2021-2100 while projections under RCP 8.5 scenario show increases of about 0.8°C to more than 3.2°C towards the end of the century. iv Climate risk assessments (CRA) were conducted as part of the NAP preparation process with four technical reports prepared for agriculture, forest fires, human health, and water resources. A report on climate change vulnerability analysis and mapping was also prepared to assess vulnerable regions across the country. In addition, past vulnerability assessments prepared for the Third National Communication (TNC) to the UNFCCC and other sectoral reports were reviewed to inform the preparation of this NAP. Vulnerability of sectors across Bhutan are as follows: • Water: Water is a cross cutting issue that affects all other sectors ranging from human settlements, food production, energy, industry, and ecosystems. Drying of water sources and decreasing winter precipitation is already observed in recent years, the climate risk assessment indicates further increase in duration and frequency of dry spells can lead to risk of local water shortages and increased drying of water sources. While flash floods and landslides are now already frequent climate induced hazards and affect human settlements and infrastructure, increase in annual precipitation and erratic precipitation is expected leading to more intense and frequent extreme events. The risk of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOF) is also likely to increase. • Agriculture: About half the Bhutanese population are engaged in agriculture but is highly vulnerable to climate change. Climate induced water shortages, wildlife depredation, pests and diseases, poor mountainous soils are present vulnerabilities and constraints for food production. Risk of erosion from increased precipitation in wet season threatens the poor and shallow soils. While crop models using only temperature and precipitation data indicates a potential increase in areas for production of cereals, vegetables, fruits, and spices, the models were limited by absence of other key data such as soils, pests, diseases, extreme events, and land suitability and availability. It is anticipated that negative impacts will outweigh any positive benefits in agriculture. • Forests and biodiversity: Bhutan’s forests cover most of the country’s land area (70.77%) and is a major factor in Bhutan achieving carbon neutral status. The forests are also a source for natural resources such as timber, non-wood forest products and other ecosystem services including as a store for fresh water. Furthermore, the different forests provide a variety of habitats for the rich biodiversity of Bhutan. Climate change poses great risk to forests and biodiversity, through potential changes in habitats and ecosystem functions. Forest fires are the most common and frequent threats to the forests and occur almost every year. Warmer and drier conditions in the dry season under climate change will increase the intensity and frequency of forest fires. The current risk of forest fire is concentrated in chir pine and blue pine forests, but the broad-leaved forests are expected to be at most risk by the 2nd half of this century. The increasing risks of forest fires not only threatens biodiversity, human settlements, and cultural heritage sites, but could also jeopardise Bhutan’s carbon sinks and compromise the constitutional mandate to maintain 60% forest cover. • Energy: Almost 100% of electricity generation in Bhutan is from hydropower and contributes to Bhutan to remaining a carbon neutral country. Hydropower development has been a major driver of economic growth and the sales and export of hydropower is a significant source of national revenue. While generation of hydroelectricity is much lower in winter, climate change is expected to worsen the situation with projections of drier winters. Increasing intensity of monsoons, increased sedimentation can also increase maintenance costs of hydropower plants, while the risk of GLOF threatens such large investments. As hydropower is highly vulnerable to climate change, v adaptation measures are required to safeguard existing investments and to diversify the energy mix. • Human Health: Climate impacts on human health are starting to manifest in terms of increasing risks of vector- and water-borne diseases, and direct impacts on lives from climate induced disasters. Other emerging threats that have come to the fore in the light of the COVID-19 pandemic include risk of zoonosis events because of changing wildlife habitats and increasing intersection between wildlife, livestock, and human settlements. Heat waves, flash floods and landslides threaten human life, health, and wellbeing and affect health infrastructure. Vector borne diseases (malaria, dengue and to a lesser extent chikungunya, Japanese encephalitis, kala-azar, and scrub typhus) and water borne diseases (diarrhoea, dysentery, typhoid, cholera) are prevalent in Bhutan and are sensitive to climate change. While government programs have controlled malaria, incidences may double in the next 30 years to 150 case per year from present levels. Dengue in Bhutan was first reported in 2004 and under climate change can increase to about 3000 incidences per year by 2050. While vector borne diseases are endemic to the southern border with India, the spatial range is also expected to increase to other dzongkhags with higher elevations. Adaptation Priorities, Needs, and Enabling Activities Chapter 3 of the NAP presents summaries of two sets of support needs. The first part of the chapter presents a range of adaptation priorities and needs across sectors as measures to reduce vulnerability. The second half of the chapter presents enabling activities to support the NAP process over the long term to ensure informed and effective adaptation planning and implementation. Further details of the adaptation priorities need and enabling activities are presented in part two of the NAP document with expanded tables and details. Adaptation priorities are identified across seven sectors as follows: i) Water: The priorities in the water sector are cross cutting and involve many sectors and stakeholder groups. The adaptation priorities in water sector take a holistic approach including nature-based solutions. The interventions range from securing and managing natural sources of water to ensuring optimal use and management of water for drinking. Ensuring efficient and sustainable use of water for agriculture and other key infrastructure investments is included for the water sector to ensure an integrated approach to water management. The management of water discharge after consumption for human needs is covered in the priorities for human settlements. The strengthening of institutional capacity for water management including enhancing existing institutions like water user groups, strengthening capacity of key stakeholders and continuing research is essential to support a continuous and iterative adaptation. ii) Agriculture and livestock: The adaptation priorities for both agriculture and livestock are grouped in interventions for securing the resource base, managing losses from climate impacts and emerging threats, and enhancing resilience in food production. The interventions include integrated landscape approaches including sustainable land management, appropriate technologies, and management practices. The agriculture and livestock sector presents strong synergies for climate mitigation through landscape approaches such as agroforestry, sustainable soil and land management, promotion of organic and good agricultural management practices. The role of the private sector is identified in several areas of food production, market access, vi supply chain for the sector and risk management. Opportunities for integration of gender issues through appropriate technologies and engagement of women’s groups are also identified. Recent lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic such as risks in supply chain, food banking and risk of zoonotic events have also been integrated. Targeted training at sector and the decentralised level is also required for enhanced risk assessments and adaptation implementation. iii) Forests and Biodiversity: The adaptation priorities for forests and biodiversity are developed in a highly synergistic approach and contributes to mitigation (carbon sink management) in line with the National REDD+ Strategy (NRS), biodiversity conservation in line with the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP), and disaster risk management. The interventions also aim to engage communities, private sector, and vulnerable groups as partners in management of the natural resources through people-centric programs. Opportunities to integrate gender responsive measures have also been included to the extent known and possible. The adaptation priorities address the great risk from forest fires, enhancing the assessment and monitoring of biodiversity under climate change, along with restoring and managing important areas and components of biodiversity in Bhutan. Invasive alien species and other emerging risks like zoonosis and spread of pest and diseases have also been identified in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Key interventions also include management of forest and biodiversity through scientific sustainable management and community engagement. iv) Human Settlements: With a rapidly urbanising population, climate proofing existing urban areas and other critical infrastructure is essential, as is preparing and implementing strategic plans for urban areas and human settlements. There are great synergies for mitigation and adaptation in urban areas and human settlements, for example, energy savings from residential and commercial areas due to energy efficiency and renewable energy generation (solar roofs) reduce the uncertainty of hydropower and function as both adaptation and mitigation measures. Securing ecosystem services in the form of ‘green infrastructure’ around and within human settlements are nature-based solutions for both mitigation and adaptation. The adaptation priorities for human settlements centre around developing climate smart cities and human settlements that leverages green infrastructure and ecosystem-based adaptation. Climate proofing existing critical infrastructure such as roads, bridges, houses, industrial areas, and agricultural infrastructure is also needed. Measures are identified to adapt to increasing floods, landslides, windstorms, and urban heat island effects. Besides hard infrastructure investments, soft interventions like risk assessments, research and data, policies and regulations and preparedness are also identified to enhance climate resilience in human settlements. v) Human Health: Measures for the health sector include surveillance and control of climate sensitive diseases, building resilience of critical public health infrastructure against extreme events and long-term climate risks. Enhancing health emergency preparedness to respond to climate induced disaster and enhancing surveillance and management of climate sensitive and vector borne diseases is needed. Further research and capacity building of the health sector is needed since the topic of climate risk integration is a fairly new topic among health professionals and practitioners in Bhutan. The health sector also depends on cross sectoral collaboration and coordination, since the determinants of health fall on other sectors and agencies, such as through Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) facilities, design of the living environment and disaster risk reduction and management. In the health sector, stakeholders have identified the participation of senior citizens vii and retired professionals as partners to fill in gaps in specialised capacity and provide support in outreach and advocacy to vulnerable groups. vi) Energy: Since Bhutan is almost completely dependent on hydropower, a climate sensitive sector, for electricity generation, adaptation for the energy sector is a two-pronged strategy of climate proofing hydropower investments and diversifying energy sources beyond major hydropower project by developing and scaling up alternative renewable energy programs. These adaptation measures have mitigation co-benefits, but adaptation in the sector is equally important to ensure energy security. The priority measures for hydropower are based on the priorities identified in the technical assessment for water sector as part of the NAP readiness project, 2nd NDC, Third National Communication and the Sustainable Hydropower Development Policy. vii) Climate Services and Disaster Risk Reduction: Priorities under climate services and disaster risk reduction is cross cutting and concerns all sectors. The challenging mountainous environment of Bhutan with tremendous variation in topography creates challenges for providing weather and climate forecast and early warning services. Greater enhancement of climate studies including hydrological studies, improvements in climate projections and better early warning systems is a critical need. Climate induced hazards will also affect all sectors of the economy, society and particularly the vulnerable groups. While floods, landslides and forest fires are familiar climate induced hazards in Bhutan that are increasing in intensity and frequency, the increasingly erratic nature of monsoon onset and retreat threatens farmers and food security. Therefore, the key stakeholders in leading these interventions range from NCHM, Department of Agriculture and Department of Local Governance and Disaster Management, in collaboration with all relevant stakeholders. The adaptation priorities for climate services and disaster risk reduction, focus on improving hydrological services for water resources management, strengthening of agro-met services and climate information system, and improvements for efficient flood forecasting and preparedness. Interventions to protect critical infrastructure and settlements also requires improved flood forecasting and preparedness and response systems, along with enhanced early warning, response, and recovery capacity. Enabling activities to support the NAP process in Bhutan are grouped across five types of interventions. i) Policy and institutional support: To ensure NAP process for the long term, some of the key enabling activities are strengthening the policy and institutional environment. Key priorities include enhancing institutional capacity to facilitate the integration of adaptation planning and implementation at all levels from national to local government institutions. A review of all relevant policies and legislation is also identified to ensure coherent climate action. Enhancing and building on ongoing efforts to ensure collaboration and coordination of adaptation among the many stakeholders across sectors and different levels is also a priority to minimise overlaps, duplications, and avoidance of maladaptation. Civil society and the private sector are identified as partners for adaptation and the enhancement of their engagement and capacity is a priority to support the NAP process. ii) Monitoring and evaluation process: A robust M&E system is identified as a key requirement to ensure that adaptation plans and priorities are implemented at all levels and by all key stakeholders and that intended objectives are being met. The M&E system for the NAP process in Bhutan covers three levels of processes (i) monitoring progress in the implementation of this NAP viii document (ii) establishing a national system for measurements of resilience and vulnerability at a higher level (iii) developing and building a national M&E system that not only supports national requirements in line with the Climate Change policy, but also supports international reporting requirements under the Enhanced Transparency Framework of the Paris Agreement. All proposed M&E systems are intended to build on existing national M&E and reporting systems and other sector level M&E frameworks such as the Bhutan Water Security Index. The M&E process also includes the processes for taking stock of the iterative NAP cycle and processes for preparation of the 2nd NAP for Bhutan. iii) Research and data: Informed decision making and planning for adaptation with the best available science has been strongly recommended in the NAP guidelines of the UNFCCC and through the consultations. In this regard, the research and data will be developed by implementing the “Roadmap and Strategy for Strengthening Climate Change Research in Bhutan, 2020”. The priorities cover three main areas of interventions (i) Conducting specific needs-based research for the different sectors and stakeholders. (ii) dissemination of the results and information through the Bhutan Climate Platform and through education and outreach programs (ii) strengthening research for climate change adaptation in Bhutan through institutional strengthening and enhancing the Bhutan Science Foundation. The climate research roadmap is led by the Royal University of Bhutan through its associated institutions and other collaborating agencies. iv) Capacity building: Continuing capacity building is required to ensure that new actors can be effective adaptation planners and implementers, while skills and capacity will need to be upgraded for others with continually emerging new findings, methodologies, and techniques for adaptation practice. While some level of targeted capacity building has been included in the sectoral and thematic adaptation priorities, overall capacity building for the NAP process is based on the “Skills Assessment for the NAP Process in Bhutan (SANP) 2020”. To fill the gaps and needs identified in the SANP, the priorities include (i) integration of climate change adaptation learning into the national education and training systems (ii)developing an institutional memory for climate change adaptation by building cohorts of training of trainers and modules in relevant institutions. (ii) promoting the awareness and utilization of indigenous/ traditional knowledge systems and (iv) ensuring sustainability with a financial strategy to sustain climate change skills development. v) Education and awareness: As elaborated in the chapter 4 (Implementation Strategies), education and awareness for key stakeholders along with awareness about climate change and adaptation among the public is critical to ensure buy- in and support for the NAP process. The strategy for this priority includes (i) integration of climate change adaptation into education curriculum (ii) enhancing the skills pool for climate change adaptation planning and research through targeted scholarships (iv) conducting advocacy campaigns on climate change adaptation, preparedness, and early warning as part of the communication strategy. Key partners in education and awareness include CSOs, the media and media production houses from the private sector. ix Implementation strategy The implementation strategy for the NAP is based on the overall objectives of the NAP process to reduce vulnerability and increase resilience through integration with development planning. The implementation approach is also guided by the Climate Change Policy which recognises that climate change is a cross cutting issue and identifies approaches and the key stakeholders for implementation. In implementing the NAP, both adaptation priorities across sectors (hard investments) and enabling actions (soft programs) will be implemented. The priorities with concrete adaptation programs and activities in Chapter 3 and the soft components (enabling activities) to support the NAP process to ensure that adaptation in the long run is sustained and responsive to the changing risks and needs in the medium to long run. At an operational level, government agencies will have to first integrate climate change actions identified in the NAP and NDC into national plans and programs and then secure funding for the programs in line with national procedures for planning and budgeting. In this regard, this chapter identifies the possible entry points to integrate the adaptation priorities into national and local development plans. Several approaches to integrate the numerous adaptation priorities in a holistic and programmatic manner are identified as possible options for future five-year development plans or other thematic and sectoral development plans. While subsequent financing of the plans will follow the integration into national plans, several potential sources for climate financing from multilateral and bilateral channels have been presented. Several potential innovative national mechanisms for climate financing such as the Bhutan Climate Fund and the Green Finance Roadmap are also identified as potential financing channels for adaptation in Bhutan. For the NAP to be successfully implemented, concerted communication and outreach effort is essential to build awareness and support for integration of adaptation into national plans and policies. The roles of key agencies and stakeholders in leading facilitating, implementing, and financing of the NAP are also presented in this Chapter. Some key issues to be noted for successful implementation identified for the NAP are: • It is important to avoid “maladaptation” where poorly made decisions for investment and projects may lead to increased risk of adverse climate impacts. Maladaptation occurs through actions, or inactions in development plans or other interventions that are poorly planned and/or ignore climate hazards and risks. • Integration of adaptation priorities (and low emission development plans) into major national development plans such as the transformative initiatives is essential. Such integration of climate priorities is needed to climate proof major economic investments, maximise use of limited resources and reduce duplication. • Inclusion of key stakeholders including the private sector, civil society, and the most vulnerable groups (elderly, women, and youth) in adaptation planning is required for buy-in and support from these key stakeholders and beneficiary groups. x Monitoring and Evaluation The final chapter of the NAP covers monitoring and evaluation (M&E) to ensure implementation of the NAP and to learn from the experience of the first NAP to inform subsequent iterations of the NAP. The M&E process is based on the Climate Change Policy 2020 and is intended to facilitate future monitoring and reporting obligations under the Paris Agreement. The M&E framework in Bhutan’s NAP is at three different levels: • Monitoring and evaluation of the NAP: The 1st level is M&E of the NAP to ensure the implementation of both adaptation priorities and enabling activities identified in chapter 3. The NAP M&E will also assess adequacy of support received for implementation of the NAP and assess gaps and barriers for implementation. The role of various national coordinating bodies such as National Environment Commission, Climate Change Coordination Committee (C4), and other agencies are identified. The modalities include review and stock taking and reporting to national bodies in line with the Climate Change Policy. A timeline for review and revision of NAP is also defined, and it is expected that a new iteration of the NAP is to be developed by end of year five. There will be a mid-term review and stock take to inform the process. • M&E for National Reporting under Climate Change Policy: The 2nd level is monitoring and reporting on adaptation action at the national level in line with the national climate change policy. The M&E of this section elaborates the monitoring and reporting requirements of the Climate Change Policy which mandates reporting on progress in climate action to the National Climate Change Committee, Cabinet and Parliament. A key part of measuring climate action in this regard includes assessing “progress in adaptation including measurements of resilience to climate change” to meet the NAP objective to “reduce vulnerability to the impacts of climate change by building adaptive capacity and resilience”. Following an examination of various options for assessing progress on adaptation and the experience in preparing the NAP in Bhutan, it is recommended that a system for measuring climate resilience be developed based on the approach already undertaken in the “Climate Change Vulnerability Analyses (CCVA) and Mapping for National Adaptation Plan (NAP) formulation process in Bhutan” (NEC 2021). A second component of this level of reporting is tracking support received for adaptation and is intended to support future national reporting obligations to the Paris Agreement. • M&E to support international reporting under the Paris Agreement: The 3rd level for the NAP M&E is to facilitate reporting at the international level under the Paris Agreement, where all parties have obligations for submission of Biennial Transparency Reports as part of the Enhanced Transparency Framework. Components of reporting on progress in adaptation and finance and technical support received must be reported and the M&E framework is intended to facilitate this international aspect of monitoring and reporting. xi PART I: FIRST NATIONAL ADAPTATION PLAN OF BHUTAN 1 1. INTRODUCTION As a small landlocked country with a fragile mountainous ecosystem, and with high reliance on climate sensitive sectors such as hydropower and agriculture, the Kingdom of Bhutan is particularly vulnerable to the adverse impacts of climate change. Bhutan made remarkable socio-economic advancements over the past decades and is on the cusp of graduating from its status as a least developed country. The COVID- 19 pandemic has crippled the economy adding to the economic vulnerability of Bhutan’s least developed country status. However, in the medium to long term, the adverse impacts of climate change can reverse the hard-won gains in socio economic development and poverty alleviation in Bhutan. It is in view of this long-term threat from climate change to the wellbeing and prosperity of Bhutan and its people, that the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) has been developed to build adaptive capacity and resilience. Bhutan’s NAP builds on the experience of Bhutan in implementing adaptation projects under the National Adaptation Program of Action (NAPA) and the latest climate risk assessments in key sectors undertaken under the NAP Readiness Project. The NAP consolidates the priority actions and needs from these recent assessments as well as the adaptation priorities previously conveyed in the 1st NDC (2015), as in the Third National Communication. The priorities, needs and implementation strategy in this NAP was developed through a highly consultative process and aims to reduce Bhutan’s vulnerability to climate change by building adaptive capacity and enhancing the enabling environment to support a long-term NAP process. 1.1 VISION, PURPOSE, AND OBJECTIVES Bhutan’s vision, goals and principles and objectives for climate action are defined in the Climate Change Policy 2020. The climate change policy was adopted to ensure that Bhutan’s pursuit of “ecologically balanced sustainable development” is resilient and contributes to the goal of remaining carbon neutral. The policy provides strategic guidance for climate change action and has the dual purpose of supporting the national development imperative and responds to international commitments for climate change action under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Paris Agreement. The policy defines the objectives for mitigation and adaptation actions and outlines the requirements for implementation and coordination of climate action in Bhutan. Therefore, the overall vision and objectives for Bhutan’s NAP is defined by the climate change policy 2020 as follows: VISION Bhutan’s vision for climate change action is: “A prosperous, resilient and carbon neutral Bhutan where the pursuit of gross national happiness for the present and future generations is secure under a changing climate.” PURPOSE The purpose of the NAP is: “to protect the health, lives, livelihoods and happiness of the people of Bhutan from the adverse impacts of climate change by building adaptive capacity and enhancing resilience to 2 reduce vulnerability and by integrating adaptation actions into the development planning process at all levels.” This purpose has been based on the mandate on adaptation for the Royal Government of Bhutan (RGOB) under policy objective 2 of the climate change policy, “Building resilience to climate change”. This mandate contextualises the rationale for adaptation in Bhutan by recognising that climate change adaptation is a localised action that is needed to safeguard the wellbeing of the Bhutanese people to a global threat emanating from actions beyond its borders. OBJECTIVES These objectives and statements for adaptation are based on the policy statements for building climate resilience in Bhutan2. The statements also build on the principles and objectives of the NAP as defined under the UNFCCC and recognise the long-term nature of climate change and its linkage and implications on the national development process. It is with this long-term view required for adaptation that the first NAP for Bhutan has been developed. Based on the above objectives, Bhutan’s NAP describes (i) the national circumstances including institutional and policy arrangements for a continuous and iterative process for adaptation planning and implementation (ii) priorities and needs to build adaptive capacity and climate resilience including the enhancement of the enabling environment to support the NAP process (iii) an implementation strategy to ensure the priorities in the NAP can be implemented and (iv) a monitoring and evaluation systems to support the NAP Process in Bhutan. 1.2 NAP MANDATES AND POLICY ALIGNMENT As described in the section on vision, purpose and objectives, the NAP process in Bhutan is defined in the Climate Change Policy 2020. The climate change policy is based on several mandates and principles in the Constitution of the Kingdom of Bhutan and in compliance with national legislation such as the National Environment Protection Act 2007 and Public Finance Act 2007. The key guiding principles and mandates from the Constitution based on mandates ensuring the wellbeing of the people of Bhutan, consideration of intergenerational equity and following the middle path to development (See Box 1). The NAP Process in Bhutan is defined in the Climate Change Policy 2020 as “the procedure and processes related to formulation of the NAP document and its implementation at a later stage” and is based on the definition from COP decision 5/CP.17. The different aspects of the NAP process for Bhutan are covered in the climate change policy as follows. • The continuous, progressive, and iterative process of adaptation planning and implementation and the integration of adaptation into development planning is defined in policy statement 2. • The mandates and institutional arrangements to support and enable a continuous and iterative NAP process, including for collaboration and coordination across sectors and stakeholders are covered in policy statements 3 & 4). 2 Statements 1, 2, 3, & 4 of Policy Objective 2: Building resilience to climate change. 3 • The policy also lays the foundation for an M&E system for climate change in section 6, statements 1.7, 1.8, 2,4, 3.1.4, 4.4, section 5.1. • The roles of stakeholders including private sectors, CSOs is defined throughout the policy. • The principles of NAP process and cross cutting issues is also mandated by “taking into account opportunities for synergies and cross-cutting issues, including gender equality considerations and disaster risk management”. • Synergies in climate action is mandated in implementation measures (Section 5.4). PERIODICITY OF NAP The periodicity of NAP is set at five years as the climate change policy states that, “national priorities for adaptation shall be assessed on the same periodicity as the NDC and undertaken as part of the NAP Process of the UNFCCC”. The NAP process in Bhutan is also linked to the Paris Agreement as stated in the climate policy that, “National priorities and needs for adaptation shall be conveyed internationally as an “Adaptation Communication” under the Paris Agreement and developed as part of NAP process”. In addition, RGOB has stated in the 1st and 2nd Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) that the first Adaptation Communication will be conveyed as part of the first NAP. Box 1: Guiding Principles of Bhutan's Climate Change Policy. Guiding Principles for Climate Change Policy The climate change policy is guided by the following principles: • The principle of state policy “to ensure a good quality of life for the people of Bhutan in a progressive and prosperous country that is committed to peace and amity in the world” as articulated in Article 9.1 of the Constitution of the Kingdom of Bhutan; • The principle of state policy to “Promote those conditions that will enable the pursuit of Gross National Happiness” as articulated in Article 9.2 of the Constitution of the Kingdom of Bhutan; • The fundamental rights and duties of each citizen to act as a trustee of the Kingdom’s natural resources and environment for the benefit of present and future generations, including the prevention of pollution as articulated in Article 5 of the Constitution of the Kingdom of Bhutan • The middle path approach in obligations of the Royal Government under Article 5 of the Constitution to conserve the environment for ecologically balanced sustainable development while promoting justifiable economic and sustainable development. • The recognition of intergenerational equity and provision of a safe and healthy environment and for present and future generations of the people of Bhutan intergenerational equity, as articulated in Articles5.1 and 5.2 of the Constitution of Bhutan • The precautionary principle as articulated in Chapter II of the National Environment Protection Act

2007 (NEPA 2007) and the “no-regrets” approach to taking beneficial action to safeguard against climate change. • The polluter pays principle and payment of ecosystem services to pay for use of resources and damages to the environment as elaborated in Chapter II of NEPA 2007 • The right to information and the engagement of all stakeholders as articulated in NEPA 2007. • Ensure coherent and clear implementation of national climate priorities in line with international obligations. (From Climate Change Policy of the Kingdom of Bhutan, 2020) 4 1.3 INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENTS FOR CLIMATE CHANGE The institutional arrangements for climate change action are described in the Climate Change Policy 2020. OVERALL COORDINATION AND OVERSIGHT OF THE CLIMATE CHANGE POLICY a) National Climate Change Committee: The National Environment Commission (NEC) functions as the high-level National Climate Change Committee (NCCC). The NEC chaired by the Hon’ble Prime Minister, or his nominee is the highest cross-sectoral environmental policy and regulatory body responsible for coordinating all the matters relating to the protection, conservation, and improvement of the environment. The NEC derives its mandate from the National Environment Protection Act 2007, Environmental Assessment Act 2000, Waste Prevention and Management Act 2009, Water Act 2011, and other directives of the government. The NEC in its role as the NCCC considers all policy and regulatory matters on climate change. The NCCC is supported in implementing its mandates and functions through the National Environment Commission Secretariat (NECS). The NEC Secretariat (NECS) in supporting the NEC/NCCC leads the preparation of national strategies and plans on climate change such as NDCs, NAPs, LEDS. As of 30 Dec 2022, the NECS has been reconstituted and renamed as the Department of Environment & Climate Change (DECC) under the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources (MoENR) and will serve as the Secretariat to the NEC3. b) Climate Change Coordination Committee: The Climate Change Coordination Committee (C4) is the technical body to serve as a forum for discussion and coordination of matters related to climate change in Bhutan and makes recommendations for consideration by the NCCC/NEC. The C4 is comprised of high-level executive representation from stakeholder agencies and organizations and is chaired by the Director General of DECC. The committee derives its mandate from the Executive Order of the Prime Minister of October 16, 2016. The C4 is supported in implementing its mandates and functions through the Climate Change Division of DECC. The C4 monitors and provide guidance on the overall implementation of the climate change policy and has a particular mandate to ensure an effective and coordinated implementation of actions on climate change in Bhutan. RESOURCE MOBILIZATION AND ALLOCATION c) Ministry of Finance: The Ministry of Finance (MoF) is mandated to formulate and implement dynamic fiscal policies and sound financial management through maximization of resource generation, efficient 3 Press Release from Royal Civil Service Commission (RCSC/LD-63/2022/2265) dated December 30, 2022 5 allocation, prudent expenditure and debt management and proper accountability of public resources. The mandates and functions of the MoF is governed by the Public Finance Act, Public Debt Policy, Income Tax Act, Revised Taxes and Levies Act, Fiscal Incentives Act and PPP Policy. In line with provisions of the various legislations, MoF has mandate for resource mobilization and budget allocation and providing fiscal incentives and other instruments to support private sector lending to support implementation of the policy. The recent reorganization of the Civil Service 4 led to the integration of the Gross National Happiness Commission (GNHC) with the MoF and the Office of the Cabinet Affairs and Strategic Coordination (OCASC). The merger transferred several mandates of the erstwhile GNHC’s relevant to climate change support to the MoF as follows; (i) management of external grants is now with the Department of Macro-Fiscal and Development Finance and (ii) responsibilities of central and local government planning is now under the Department of Planning, Budget and Performance. With this change, national mandates for facilitating international climate change support from funds such as the GCF, GEF, LDCF, etc. will now be managed by the MoF. CLIMATE DATA AND INFORMATION d) National Center for Hydrology and Meteorology: National Center for Hydrology and Meteorology (NCHM) is mandated to provide national source of hydro-meteorological data, service, and advice to meet the needs of the general public, emergency services and other specialized users. NCHM provide hydro-meteorological data and information, climate modelling and scenarios and other early warning services. e) Royal University of Bhutan and Research Institutions: The Royal University of Bhutan (RUB) and other research institutions, in line with their respective mandates, shall conduct needs-based research to support informed decision- making and the planning and implementation of climate change action. SECTORS AND LINE AGENCIES f) Other Agencies, Civil Society and Private Sector The roles and responsibilities of all other sectoral agencies and organisations including civil society and private sector are also defined in an annex to the climate change policy. These organisations are to integrate climate change action within their respective mandates, policies, and programs. 4 Press Release from Royal Civil Service Commission (No. RCSC/LD-63/2022/1106) dated October 2, 2022. 6 1.4 NATIONAL CIRCUMSTANCES A brief overview of the national circumstances of Bhutan is presented below to provide context for the NAP. A full description of the national circumstances is available in Bhutan’s Third National Communication submitted in 2020. GEOGRAPHY Bhutan is a small, landlocked country with an area of 38,394 km2 situated on the southern slope of the Eastern Himalayas. The country is almost entirely mountainous with altitudes ranging from about 100 meters in the foothills to over 7,500 meters in the north (Figure 1). Due to its fragile mountainous ecosystem, Bhutan is highly vulnerable to impacts of climate change and extreme weather events. The situation is further worsened by the country’s low adaptive capacity and poor economic status constrained by limited financial, technical, and human capacity. Additionally, the country’s economy is still predominantly dependent on climate sensitive sectors like agriculture and hydropower. The mountainous landscape makes communication and transport very fragile and expensive. CLIMATE The climate of Bhutan is exceptionally diverse with three distinct climatic zones: subtropical, alpine, and temperate, which encompass numerous micro-climates due to dramatic variations in elevation and topography (NCHM 2019). Two main factors affecting the variation in climatic variation of mean temperature and precipitation are: the vast differences in altitude in the country and the influence of the North Indian monsoons. Bhutan’s location at the northern periphery of the tropical circulation is an important feature that determines its climate. Bhutan receives about 70% of the precipitation during monsoons, while pre-monsoon rainfall accounts for 20%. The annual precipitation ranges widely in various parts of the country. The northern region gets about 40 mm of annual precipitation, mostly in the form of snow. The temperate central valley receives about 1,000 mm of rainfall, while the southern region gets about 1,500 mm of rain annually (NSB, 2018). The monsoons last from late June through late September. (See figures 2, 3, & 4). AGRICULTURE The agriculture sector comprises of farming, livestock and forestry which continues to be a major player in the country’s economy. With only 2.75% of the total land area used for agriculture (DoFPS, 2016), the sector accounted for 17.37% of GDP in 2017 (NSB, 2018) and employed about 51% of the total population (MoAF 2020 in RNR Strategy 2030) 7 Figure 1: Bhutan Physical Map 5 Figure 2: Bhutan climate, average annual maximum temperature in 2020. Source NCHM, Bhutan. 5 Source: https://gisgeography.com 8 Figure 3: Bhutan climate, average annual minimum temperature in 2020. Source NCHM, Bhutan. Figure 4: Bhutan climate, annual accumulated rainfall in 2020. Source NCHM, Bhutan. 9 NATURAL RESOURCES Forest resources Bhutan has a total of 70.77 % forest cover (2,717,161.64 ha) out of the total geographical area (3,839,400 ha) of the country (FRMD, 2017). Broadleaved forests constitute around 65% of the forested area, while conifer forests make up about 35%. The forest cover of Bhutan marginally increased from 70.46% in 2010 (LCMP, 2010) to 70.77% in 2016 (FRMD, 2017). The total forest carbon stock of Bhutan is 645 million tonnes of carbon in the form of biomass carbon and soil organic carbon (SOC) (FRMD, 2020). The biomass carbon pool constitutes 457 million tonnes of total carbon stock, and 188 million tonnes of carbon is stored in mineral soils/soil carbon pool (FRMD, 2020). Protected Area Network The protected area network of Bhutan consisting of five National Parks, four Wildlife Sanctuaries, one Strict Nature Reserve, eight Biological Corridors and a Royal Botanical Park, covers 51.44% of the country’s area. The protected area system in Bhutan is unique in that there are human settlements occurring within the PAs that play an essential role in our conservation efforts, unlike in other parts of the world, where communities in the PAs are relocated (MoAF, 2019). Biodiversity Due to the high forest cover located in the eastern Himalayas, pristine environment, strong conservation efforts and good network of Protected Areas, Bhutan has flourishing populations of some of the rarest flora and fauna on earth. The 2017 Biodiversity Statistics of Bhutan records 11,248 species of all biodiversity groups found in Bhutan. Several plants and animal species listed as vulnerable, endangered, or critically endangered by IUCN are also found in Bhutan. (MoAF, 2018). Water resources Most of the major rivers in Bhutan originate from glaciers and are recharged by watershed. The river system is generally distinguished by main rivers that flow from north to south, with tributaries flowing in an east-west direction. The main rivers are Amochhu, Wangchhu, Punatsangchhu and Manas. Two large rivers, Mangdechhu and Drangmechhu, converge into one river and make up the Manas just before crossing the Indian border. The Manas River covers about half the country. Most of the river discharge results from rainfall, supplemented by an estimated 2-12% glacial melt and another 2% from snow melt. The combined outflow of the rivers is about 70,576 million m 3, or 2,238 m3/s, which corresponds to a flow of 109,000 m3 per capita per year, the highest in the region. POPULATION Bhutan is one of the least populated countries in Asia with a total population of 727,145 in 2017 and Population Growth Rate (PGR) of 1.3% per annum as per Housing and Population Census of Bhutan,

2017 (NSB, 2017). As a result of the gradual increase in the population size, the population density of Bhutan increased from 17 persons per km2 in 2005 to 19 persons per km2 in 2017. The distribution of the population over the land area is not uniform throughout the country. While the capital, Thimphu, has the highest population density at 67 persons per km2, Gasa Dzongkhag has the lowest with just 1.3 persons per km2. 10 The 2017 Population and Housing Census of Bhutan (PHCB) reported the literacy rate of 71.4% and the adult (aged 15 years and above) literacy rate of 66.6%. There is a marked difference in the literacy levels between the male and female populations, with 78.1% of the male population literate compared to 63.9% of the female population. Overall, the literacy rate is significantly higher in urban areas (84.1%) than in rural areas (63.6%). MACROECONOMY Bhutan is one of the world’s smallest economies, with gross domestic product (GDP) in 2017 recorded at Nu. 164.6 billion or approximately USD 2.4 billion per year. However, growth has been remarkable, with the economy growing at an average rate of seven percent per year over the past decade, mainly due to investments in the hydropower sector. GDP per capita increased from USD 2,464 in 2013 to USD 3,438 in 2017. Bhutan was categorised as a Least Developed Country (LDC) by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in 1971. Over the decades, Bhutan has made remarkable socio-economic advancements, qualifying the country for graduation from this category for the first time at the 2015 triennial review of the list of LDCs. However, the COVID 19 pandemic led to a shrinkage in economic activities with the economy recording a drastic drop in growth of -10.08 percent in 2020, which is 15.83 percentage points drop as compared to a growth of 5.76 percent in 2019. The key sectors that contributed to the contraction of the economy were Mining & Quarrying at -81.84 percent; Hotel & Restaurants at -73.46 percent; Manufacturing, Construction, and Transport & Communication at -20.76 percent, -20.64 percent, and -14.65 percent respectively. Further, Finance & Insurance; Wholesale & Retail Trade; and Other Business services have also contracted contributing to the overall contraction of the economy in 2020 (NSB 2021). The public sector has long been the primary source of economic growth, but the government now recognised the significance of private- sector growth. Economic diversification is now a higher priority, and Bhutan has made progress in modernizing its economic structure and reducing poverty. Constraints on private-sector development include an inefficient regulatory framework, significant nontariff barriers to trade, and a rudimentary investment code (The Heritage Foundation, 2019). Bhutan’s economic development policy has been guided by the overarching philosophy of Gross National Happiness (GNH) based on the four pillars of (i) sustainable economic development; (ii) preservation and promotion of culture and tradition; (iii) conservation of the environment; and (iv) good governance. However, sustainable economic growth remains a major challenge as it is financed mainly by external aid (RGoB, 2016). As a least-developed country with a young growing population, Bhutan has pressing needs for economic development and poverty eradication in a challenging environment while conserving of a globally significant natural environment. GOVERNANCE STRUCTURE The government of Bhutan is a democratic constitutional monarchy with the executive power vested in the Cabinet (Lhengye Zhungtshog) headed by the Prime Minister. Bhutan’s democratically elected Parliament is the highest legislative institution in the country. It consists of His Majesty the Druk Gyalpo, 11 the National Council and the National Assembly. The Parliament is bicameral and follows the Westminster Parliamentary system. His Majesty the King is the Head of State. The National Assembly has the legislative, oversight and representational mandates. The National Council has both legislative and review functions and is also referred to as the House of Review on matters affecting the security and sovereignty of the country and the interests of the nation and the people. Under the current parliamentary structure, there are a total of 72 members – 25 members in the National Council and 47 members in the National Assembly elected for a term of five years. (RGOB, 2022). ADMINISTRATIVE SYSTEM The administrative system in the country consists of Central Government and Local Government. The Central Government comprises of Ministries, Departments and Autonomous bodies. At the central level, the nine different Ministries are headed by the Cabinet Ministers and at the local level, Bhutan is administratively divided into 20 Dzongkhags (districts) (figure 5), each governed by a district administrator or Dzongda. The Dzongkhags are sub-divided into small blocks or gewogs. There are 205 gewogs in the country, grouped under 47 constituencies. The Local Government comprises of Dzongkhag Tshogdu, Gewog Tshogde and the Thromde Tshogde (NSB 2021). Figure 5: Bhutan: Administrative Map. 6 6 Source: https://gisgeography.com 12 1.5 THE NAP PROCESS AND PREPARATION OF THE NAP The preparation of the first NAP for Bhutan has been a long process as the national NAP Process was first launched in 2015 but was delayed initially due to lack of financial support and subsequently by the COVID-19 pandemic. 1.5.1 LAUNCH OF THE NAP PROCESS The mandate to start preparation of a NAP for Bhutan was launched by the Hon. Prime Minister in March 2015, at the “Dialogue on Climate Resilient and Carbon Neutral Development” which also launched the preparation of the Intended Nationally Determined Contribution (INDC) ahead of COP 21. Regarding the NAP process, the high-level workshop recommended that: a) The NAP process should be long-term, with continuous capacity building and mobilization of support based on national strategy. b) Adaptation should be addressed at all levels, with more focus to local and community level (on actual implementation). c) The NEC should take the lead for the NAP. d) NAPs should be supported under a clear climate policy/mandate. e) NAPs should contain implementation strategy and timeline. While awaiting financial support to initiate the NAP process, Bhutan identified priority adaptation needs based on existing policies, plans and strategies and included an adaptation component in the INDC in 2015. Following the Technical Guidelines to the NAP Process, an initial NAP roadmap was also developed and presented during a national consultative workshop “Advancing Action on Climate Change for National Priorities and International Obligations” to sensitise national stakeholders after the adoption of the Paris Agreement. This road map also served to guide the next steps and in engaging key stakeholders for the NAP process. 1.5.2 NAP READINESS PROJECT Once financial support for NAP preparation was made available through the GCF, the preparation of a NAP readiness proposal was initiated with the support of UNDP/NAP Global Support Program in 2016. The NAP readiness proposal was submitted to the GCF and contained components for enhancing coordination; capacity development to produce climate scenarios; vulnerability assessment; NAP formulation; capacity development for M&E. The NAP readiness project was subsequently approved in January 2019. 1.5.3 ASSESSMENTS CONDUCTED TO SUPPORT OF THE NAP PROCESS As part of the NAP Readiness Project, several activities were undertaken to facilitate the establishment of the NAP process, and preparation of Bhutan’s first NAP. In addition to several capacity building activities for vulnerability assessment and adaptation planning, several assessments and strategic documents were prepared based on the outcome of a stock taking exercise, and a localised version of the NAP Technical Guidelines. 13 These assessments were undertaken to support and inform the NAP process and preparation of the first NAP from Bhutan. These assessments were prepared with the support of sectoral teams and technical consultants and build on past efforts and actions through a consultative process to ensure inclusivity. The documents are listed below and are available separately on the Bhutan ClimatePlatform7. Technical reports strategies and guidelines prepared to support the NAP process 1. Guidelines for National Adaptation Plan (NAP) Formulation Process in Bhutan, NAP Readiness Project, Thimphu 2020 2. Protocol for NAP formulation process in Bhutan, NAP Readiness Project, Thimphu 2020 3. Bhutan Climate Platform, Thimphu. NAP Readiness Project, Thimphu 2022 4. Skills Assessment for NAP Formulation Process in Bhutan, Thimphu , Bhutan, NAP Readiness Project, Thimphu 2020 5. Stakeholder Engagement Plan for National Adaptation Plan (NAP), NAP Readiness Project, Thimphu 2020 6. Stocktaking for Climate Change Vulnerability Analyses and National Adaptation Plan (NAP) Mapping for National Adaptation Plan (NAP) Formulation Process in Bhutan, NAP Readiness Project, Thimphu 2020 7. Skills Assessment for Climate Change Vulnerability Analyses and National Adaptation Plan (NAP) Mapping for National Adaptation Plan (NAP) Formulation Process in Bhutan, NAP Readiness Project, Thimphu 2020 8. SDG Structured Dialogue, NAP Readiness Project, Thimphu 2020 9. A Roadmap and Strategy for Strengthening Climate Change Research in Bhutan 2021 – 2025, NAP Readiness Project, Thimphu 2020 10. Climate Change Vulnerability Analyses and Mapping for NAP Formulation Process in Bhutan, NAP Readiness Project, Thimphu 2022 Climate Risk Assessments 1. Assessment of Climate Risks on Agriculture for NAP Formulation Process in Bhutan, NAP Readiness Project, Thimphu 2022 2. Assessment of Climate Risks on Forests and Biodiversity for NAP Formulation Process in Bhutan, NAP Readiness Project, Thimphu 2022 3. Assessment of Climate Risks on Health for NAP Formulation Process in Bhutan, NAP Readiness Project, Thimphu 2022 4. Assessment of climate risks on Water Resources for the NAP in Bhutan, NAP Readiness Project, Thimphu 2022 1.5.4 DRAFTING THE NAP This National Adaptation Plan has been prepared by the NAP Drafting Committee (NAP DC) comprising various members of the Thematic Working Groups (TWG) who worked on the Climate Risk Assessment 7 Visit www.nec.gov.bt for link to the Bhutan Climate Portal 14 for Agriculture, Forests and Biodiversity, Health, and Water Resources. These four sectors were prioritized for further risk assessment based on the NAP stocktaking exercise. The preparation of the NAP entailed several rounds of consultations with different stakeholder groups. See Annex 2 for the list of consultations. Technical reviews and consultations The drafting of the NAP was affected and delayed by the COVID-19 Pandemic and the health restrictions and lockdowns prevented consultations and conclusion of the sectoral climate risk assessments. Several of the consultations and meetings were held in virtual mode throughout the pandemic in 2020 and 2021 but the delays and disruptions significantly delayed the preparation and drafting of the NAP. The initial round of consultations focused on identifying (i) the adaptation priorities and (ii) enabling activities for the NAP process. This exercise was based on the results of the four climate risk assessments for Agriculture, Forests and Biodiversity, Health, and Water, and build on the adaptation plans and priorities contained in other national climate change strategies and documents such as the INDC and the Third National Communication. These initial consultations were limited within the four sectoral TWGs of Agriculture, Forests and Biodiversity, Health, and Water. Several targeted consultations were also held with stakeholders from the private sector and human settlements sector. Subsequent consultations were conducted among all members of the TWG including representatives from CSOs and the private sector. Following the consolidation of the adaptation priorities and enabling activities, the Review Team of the NAP Drafting Committee recommended that while the four priority sectors (agriculture, health, forests & biodiversity, and water) covered priorities from most other sectors the priority actions and activities needed to be reorganised under an expanded list of sectors for better visibility and focus for subsequent implementation. The final sectors for the adaptation priorities included in Chapter 3 was expanded to seven sectors: (i) Water (ii) Agriculture and Livestock (iii) Forests and Biodiversity (iv) Human Settlements and Climate Smart Cities (v) Health (vi) Energy (vii) Climate Services and Disaster Risk Reduction. Further targeted consultations with the private sector and CSOs were also held to ensure inclusion of all stakeholder groups. Regional and national level consultations Subsequent consultations and work of the NAP Drafting Committee focussed on approaches for the Implementation Strategy and Monitoring and Evaluation of the NAP. After the first draft of the NAP was completed based on the technical assessments, subsequent consultations were expanded to a wider range of stakeholders in October 2022. Consultations on the draft NAP and priorities were held over four regional level consultations with district level planners, sector heads and chairs of local governments in Bumthang, Trashigang, Gelephu and Punakha. A final national level consultation was conducted with heads of national agencies, and representatives of CSOs, private sector and development partners in Thimphu. There was unanimous endorsement of the approach and priorities in the first NAP at the consultations. Almost all concerns about various risks in different regions or sectors raised at the consultations were found to be captured in the adaptation priorities and enabling activities prepared by the NAP drafting committee as detailed in Chapter 3 and the Annex with detailed tables of priorities. 15 Local level planners, implementers and stakeholders found that they could refer to the NAP when developing local or sectoral development plans. However, there were concerns on how they could effectively integrate the climate change risks and priorities into their plans. To ensure success in this key step of integrating adaptation into local and national development plans, numerous suggestions were presented including the need for enhancing mainstreaming support, capacity building, resources, information, and approaches. These messages are presented in Box 2. Final review and endorsement of the NAP Following the wide consultations, the revised NAP draft was shared to the Climate Change Coordination Committee (C4) and presented to the National Environment Commission. It was endorsed by NEC in its capacity as the National Climate Change Committee. 16 Box 2: Key messages from regional and national consultations on the NAP Key messages from regional and national consultations on the NAP A summary of the points from the regional and national consultations on the NAP is included in Annex 3. The key messages from the consultations are presented below. Planning and implementation: • Successful adaptation requires collaboration in bottom-up and top-down approaches. For successful integration of adaptation in development planning in Bhutan, the Mainstream Reference Group (MRG) needs to be revived at national and local levels. • Systems thinking and a coherent and coordinated approach is required for cost-effective, and efficient implementation of adaptation and development priorities. • Maladaptation can be avoided through collaboration, coordination, and integrated approaches and awareness. • In addition to addressing adverse impacts of climate change, take advantage of any positive benefits from climate change to improve livelihoods and resilience. • Research at the local level in priority areas such as water resources and ecosystems are essential to make informed decisions and adaptation plans. Implementation approaches and synergies • Ecosystem- based approaches is essential for adapting to climate change impacts on water resources. Ecosystem- based approaches also means ensuring minimal environmental impact from adaptation interventions. • Infrastructure development and resilient human settlements should use ecosystem-based approaches and “green infrastructure” to ensure synergistic benefits for liveable and resilient human settlements. • Disaster risk management and early warning systems are essential and should be a priority as climate induced -hazards are becoming more frequent. Implementation/financing • Clear guidance and information on climate financing including availability and allocation is required for successful integration and mainstreaming of adaptation or mitigation. • Diversification and innovative sources of financing at national to local levels as well as in financial services and private sector can enhance climate resilience and financing. Key stakeholders, their strengths and capacity needs • There is need for greater awareness and capacity building for climate change and integration with development at local level. • It is important to identify and engage appropriately with key stakeholders based on their roles, knowledge, experience, and capacity. Key stakeholders can include the right technical experts, community elders and leaders, the private sector and civil society. • Education, awareness, and advocacy is a continuous process and should reach out to as many individuals as possible in society and the outreach should start early and with the right information. Monitoring and evaluation • A robust Monitoring and Evaluation of adaptation is essential to ensure effective implementation of the NAP, and to avoid maladaptation. 17 2. IMPACTS RISKS AND VULNERABILITIES 2.1 SUMMARY OF OBSERVED AND PROJECTED CLIMATE The overview of observed and projected climate for Bhutan is extracted from the Chapter on Vulnerability and Adaptation Assessment of the Third National Communication (TNC) from Bhutan to the UNFCCC 2020, which is also largely based on projections in the National Center for Hydrology and Meteorology (NCHM) publication ‘‘Analysis of Historical Climate and Climate Projection for Bhutan, 2019”. A summary is presented below and the two reference documents can be accessed for in depth review of climate projections over Bhutan. Bhutan lacks extensive and long-term historical temperature and rainfall data sets and observed data is available only from 1996. As an alternative, temperature, and rainfall data from Climatic Research Unit (CRU), University of East Anglia, the United Kingdom was used as proxy data and validated against the available observed data from the 15 climate stations in Bhutan. Climate projections for Bhutan was assessed for two future periods: a short-term period (2021-2050) and a long-term period (2070-2099) and considered two socio-economic scenario representing trends – Representative Concentration Pathways (RCP) of high emission (RCP 8.5) and intermediate emission (RCP 4.5) of the IPCC fifth assessment report (2014). There is no projection for a medium-term period (2051-2069). 2.1.1 HISTORICAL TRENDS Historical Trends in Temperature (1976 – 2005) NCHM’s analysis of trends in climate parameters using CRU data for Bhutan from 1976 to 2005 showed an increasing trend in temperature (Figure 6). Mean annual temperature increased by 0.8 degrees Celsius and seasonal temperature has increased as well, with the highest increase during the winter season by 1.3 degrees. The spatial variation in temperature over the country and over the seasons is illustrated in figure 7. In general, temperatures are cooler in the norther highlands and is warmer in the southern regions at lower elevations. The seasons and corresponding months are defined in Table 1. Historical Trends in Mean and Seasonal Rainfall (1976 – 2005) There was a decreasing trend in rainfall at mean annual scales with high variability (Figure 8). Seasonal rainfall in Bhutan is characterised with a wet summer monsoon (JJAS) and dry winter season (DJF). Figure 9 shows the spatial variation of mean annual and seasonal rainfall across Bhutan. Rainfall amounts are highest for the summer season (JJAS) while the other seasons are relatively dry. The spatial variation between the regions can also be observed with much higher rainfall in the country’s southern belt. 18 Table 1: Seasons and corresponding months in for Bhutan based on NCHM clusters Season Months Abbreviation Winter December, January, February DJF Spring March, April, May MAM Summer June, July, August, September JJAS Autumn October, November ON Figure 6: Historical trends and projections of mean annual temperature over Bhutan. (Source, NCHM 2019) Figure 7: Spatial distribution of seasonal mean temperature (°C) over Bhutan for the period 1976 -2005 (Source: NCHM, 2019) 19 Figure 8: Historical trends and projections of mean annual rainfall over Bhutan. (Source, NCHM 2019) Figure 9: Spatial distribution of seasonal mean rainfall, DJF (Winter), MAM (Spring), JJAS (summer) and ON (Autumn) (Source: NCHM, 2019) 20 2.1.2 CLIMATE SCENARIOS Scenarios for Annual and Seasonal Temperature (2021-2100) NCHM used an ensemble of five model data from NASA Earth Exchange Global Daily Downscaled Projections (NASA GEX-GDDP) for the projection of temperature and rainfall parameters. Projections for temperature and rainfall is for two socio-economic scenarios of RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5. The projections show a consistent increase in temperature over the country under both RCPs. Under RCP 4.5 the increase in annual mean temperature is about 0.8°C – 1.6°C all over Bhutan between 2021- 2050 with higher increases of 1.6°C – 2.8°C during 2070 – 2099 Figure 10). Seasonal changes during 2021-2050 show increase in the range of 0.9°C – 1.8°C all over Bhutan (Figure 11) and about 1.8°C – 2.8°C by the end of the century (Figure 12). Larger warming is indicated during spring (MAM) and winter (DJF) seasons. The country as a whole is expected to experience an increase in temperature with a larger increase projected in the high lands. Under RCP 8.5 scenario, an increase in annual mean temperature of 0.8°C – 2.0°C is expected all over Bhutan between 2021-2050 with increases of more than more than 2.8°C towards the end of the century (2070-2099) (Figure 13). Seasonal changes until 2050 under RCP 8.5 are similar to that of RCP 4.5 all over Bhutan (Figure 14). However, more pronounced changes can be noted towards the end of the century in the range of 3.2°C – 5.6°C (Figure 15). Scenarios for Annual and Seasonal Rainfall (2021-2100) The mean annual rainfall over Bhutan is likely to increase in the future under both the RCPs. Under the RCP 4.5 scenario, the yearly rainfall in Bhutan could increase with about 10% to 30% increase in the summer (JJAS). The projection also notes a likely increase of rainfall during the winter (DJF) with some parts in the north and northwest likely to experience a decrease in rainfall. The annual and seasonal changes in rainfall under RCP 4.5 are shown in figures 16, 17 and 18. Under the RCP 8.5 scenario, the mean annual rainfall indicates an increase of about 10-20% in the short- term period and more than 30% increase all over Bhutan towards the end of the century. While the projections suggest increasing rainfall during the summer season (JJAS), the north-western region of the country is expected to experience a decrease in rainfall in winter (DJF). The annual and seasonal precipitation changes under RCP 8.5 are shown in figures 19, 20, & 21. 21 Changes in temperature under RCP 4.5 (Figures 10-12) Figure 10: Projected Annual Mean temperature under RCP 4.5 scenario. Panel (a) shows difference in annual mean temperature (°C) between 2020-2050 and present-day climate. Panel (b) shows difference in annual mean temperature (°C) between 2070-2099 and present-day climate. (Source: NCHM 2019) Figure 11: Difference in seasonal mean temperature (°C) between future (2021-2050) and present-day climate under RCP 4.5 scenario. (Source: NCHM, 2019) Figure 12: Difference in seasonal mean temperature (°C) between future (2070 -2099) and present-day climate under RCP 4.5 scenario. (Source: NCHM, 2019) 22 Changes in temperature under RCP 8.5 (Figures 13-15) Figure 13: Projected Annual Mean temperature under RCP 8.5 scenario. Panel (a) shows difference in annual mean temperature (°C) between 2020-2050 and present-day climate. Panel (b) shows difference in annual mean temperature (°C) between 2070-2099 and present-day. (Source: NCHM, 2019) Figure 14: Difference in seasonal mean temperature (°C) between future (2021 -2050) and present-day climate under RCP 8.5 scenario. (Source: NCHM, 2019) Figure 15: Difference in seasonal mean temperature (°C) between future (2070 -2099) and present-day climate under RCP 8.5 scenario. (Source: NCHM, 2019) 23 Changes in precipitation under RCP 4.5 (Figures 16-18) Figure 16: Change in annual mean precipitation under RCP 4.5 scenario. Panel (a) shows difference in annual mean precipitation between 2020-2050 and present-day climate and panel (b) shows difference in annual mean precipitation between 2070-2099 and present-day climate. (Source: NCHM 2019) Figure 17: Change in summer (JJAS) precipitation under RCP 4.5 between future and present-day climates. Panel (a) shows difference with 2021-2050 and panel (b) shows difference between now and 2070-2099. (Source: NCHM, 2019) Figure 18: Change in winter (DJF) precipitation under RCP 4.5 between future and present-day climates. Panel (a) shows difference with 2021-2050 and panel (b) shows difference between now and 2070-2099. (Source: NCHM, 2019) 24 Changes in precipitation under RCP 8.5 (Figures 19-21) Figure 19: Change in annual mean precipitation under RCP 8.5 scenario. Panel (a) shows difference in annual mean precipitation between 2020-2050 and present-day climate and panel (b) shows difference in annual mean precipitation between 2070-2099 and present-day. (Source: NCHM, 2019) Figure 20: Change in summer (JJAS) precipitation under RCP 8.5 between future and present -day climates. Panel (a) shows difference with 2021-2050 and panel (b) shows difference between now and 2070-2099. (Source: NCHM, 2019) Figure 21: Change in winter (DJF) precipitation under RCP 4.5 between future and present -day climates. Panel (a) shows difference with 2021-2050 and panel (b) shows difference between now and 2070-2099. (Source: NCHM, 2019) 25 Climate Scenarios: Temperature and Rainfall change by elevation (2021-2100) An Asian Development Bank supported study for NEC in 2016 developed climate projection by elevation, considering the effect of the country’s diverse topography. This study broadly divides the country into three climatic zones along the north-south direction, based on the elevation presented in the table 2 below: Table 2: Climatic zones for Bhutan (NEC/ADB 2016) Region Climate Elevation (m) Southern foothills Subtropical, high humidity, heavy rainfall 100 -1,500 Inner Himalayas Cool winters, hot summers, moderate rainfall 1,500 - 3,000 Higher Himalayas Alpine, cool summers, cold winters 3,000 - 7,550 Temperature and Rainfall change for Higher Himalayas (2021-2100) For the Higher Himalayas, temperature is projected increase by 2 degrees under RCP 4.5 and by more than 3 degrees under RCP 8.5. The warming is projected to be higher during the winter months. See Figure 22. While there is a marginal increase in rainfall under both RCPs for this zone, the model also projects a decrease in rainfall in certain regions. In terms of the monthly average rainfall, the Higher Himalayas is expected to receive higher rainfall during the summer and have a drier winter. See Figure 23. Temperature and Rainfall change for Inner Himalayas (2021-2100) For the Inner Himalayas, there is consistent warming under both the RCPs. However, warming is projected to be higher during the winter months. See Figure 24. For this elevation zone, the rainfall projection shows an increasing trend under both the RCPs. The seasonal and monthly projection shows drier winter and wetter summer under both the RCPs. However, it is projected that rainfall will increase during winter season under RCP 4.5 in the long term. See Figure 25. Temperature and Rainfall change for Southern Foothills (2021-2100) In the Southern Foothills, increase in temperature is consistent with the elevation zones in both the RCPs with a higher warming projected for the winter months. See Figure 26. The rainfall projection for this elevation zone shows an increasing trend of rainfall under both the RCPs. The winter season is projected to get drier and wet summer under both the RCPs. However, just as in the Inner Himalayan zone, the rainfall is projected to increase even during winter months under RCP4.5 for 2070-2099 periods. Nonetheless, it is not as clearly visible as the increase in summer precipitation in the graph. See Figure 27. 26 (a) Changes in mean annual temperature under RCP (b) Monthly average temperature changes under 4.5 and RCP 8.5 (Higher Himalayas) RCP 4.5 (Higher Himalayas) (c) Monthly average temperature changes under RCP 8.5 (Higher Himalayas) Figure 22: Projections of mean annual and monthly temperature change over the Higher Himalayas for RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5 during mid to the end of the century (Source: NEC/ADB 2016) (b) Changes in monthly average rainfall under (a) Changes in mean annual rainfall under RCP 4.5 RCP 4.5 (Higher Himalayas) and RCP 8.5 (Higher Himalayas) (c) Changes in monthly average rainfall changes under RCP 8.5 (Higher Himalayas) Figure 23: Projections of mean annual and monthly rainfall change over the Higher Himalayas for RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5 during mid to the end of the century. (Source: NEC/ADB 2016) 27 (a) Changes in mean annual temperature under RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5 (Inner Himalayas) (b) Changes in monthly average temperature under RCP 4.5 (Inner Himalayas) (c) Changes in monthly average temperature under RCP 8.5 (Inner Himalayas) Figure 24: Projections of mean annual and monthly temperature change over the Inner Himalayas for RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5 during mid to the end of the century (Source: NEC/ADB 2016) (b) Changes in monthly average rainfall under RCP (a) Changes in mean annual rainfall under RCP 4.5 4.5 (Inner Himalayas) and RCP 8.5 (Inner Himalayas) (c) Changes in monthly average rainfall changes under RCP 8.5 (Inner Himalayas) Figure 25: Projections of mean annual and monthly rainfall change over the Inner Himalayas for RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5 during mid to the end of the century. (Source: NEC/ADB 2016) 28 (a) Changes in mean annual temperature under (b) Changes in monthly average temperature under RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5 (Southern Foothills) RCP 4.5 (Southern Foothills) (c) Changes in monthly average temperature under RCP 8.5 (Southern Foothills) Figure 26: Projections of mean annual and monthly temperature change over the Southern Foothills for RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5 during mid to the end of the century (Source: NEC/ADB 2016) (a) Changes in mean annual rainfall under RCP 4.5 (b) Changes in monthly average rainfall under RCP and RCP 8.5 (Southern Foothills) 4.5 (Southern Foothills) (c) Changes in monthly average rainfall changes under RCP 8.5 (Southern Foothills) Figure 27: Projections of mean annual and monthly rainfall change over the Southern Foothills for RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5 during mid to the end of the century. (Source: NEC/ADB 2016) 29 2.2 CLIMATE RISK ASSESSMENTS Climate risks for Bhutan have been assessed in general terms in the TNC 2020 across five sectors of water, agriculture, forests and biodiversity, energy, and human health. The key climate risks in these sectors are broadly summarised in table 3 below. Further details about risks in these five sectors along with the adaptation options can be viewed in the TNC document. In addition, climate risk assessments (CRA) for sectors were undertaken as part of the NAP preparation process. In depth technical assessments and intensive consultative discussions were undertaken in preparing the CRAs for water, forests, agriculture, human health. In addition, a fifth study undertook a climate change vulnerability assessment and mapping to assess vulnerability and adaptive capacity across the different administrative regions in Bhutan. The five different technical assessments that were undertaken to support the NAP preparation are published separately and are considered technical references to support this main NAP document. These five assessments reports8 and are as follows: • Assessment of Climate Risks on Agriculture for NAP Formulation Process in Bhutan 2021 • Assessment of Climate Risks on Forests and Biodiversity for NAP Formulation Process in Bhutan 2021 • Assessment of Climate Risks on Health for NAP Formulation Process in Bhutan 2021 • Assessment of climate risks on Water Resources for the NAP in Bhutan 2021 • Climate Change Vulnerability Analyses and Mapping for NAP Formulation Process in Bhutan 2021 While other key sectors such as energy and human settlements and the needs for climate observation and disaster management were not directly assessed they were covered to a certain degree as part of the climate risk assessment for the water sector. The adaptation priorities recommended in these five reports were reviewed and discussed by the NAP drafting committee and the thematic working groups and eventually finalised into the adaptation priorities and enabling activities presented in Chapter 3 on Adaptation Priorities, Needs and Enabling Activities and further detailed in Part II of this NAP document. A summary of findings on climate risks from these assessments are presented in the following sections. 8 Visit www.nec.gov.bt to download the Third National Communication and the five climate risk assessments to support the NAP formulation process in Bhutan. 30 Table 3: Summary of climate risks across sectors in the Third National Communication 2020 Water Agriculture Forests and Energy Human health biodiversity • Increased • Climate • Potential • High • Climate change disaster change- shifts in dependence impacts on risks, induced water forest on determinants shortages, structure and hydropower of health • Limited distribution access to • Wildlife • Hydropower • Changes in water predation of • Damages by sector pattern of resources crops, pests and adversely vector- borne, and diseases on affected by airborne, and • Pests and seasonal the forest. water water-borne diseases, water availability diseases. • Forest fire shortages. • Poor and extreme may reverse • Increased mountainous events carbon sink stress on shallow soils, emergency worsened by • New invasive medical health increasing soil and alien services loss through species surface erosion and scarcity of farm labour 2.2.1 ASSESSMENT OF CLIMATE RISKS ON WATER RESOURCES FOR THE NATIONAL ADAPTATION PLAN (NAP) IN BHUTAN The assessment of climate risk on water resources was conducted through a climate risk characterization and impact assessment approach developed by combining bottom-up regional consultations and the top-down model-based analysis. Disaster risk was conceptualized based on the earlier definitions by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC, 2012) and The United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction UNDRR (2016). Disaster risk is expressed through three concepts, namely hazard, vulnerability, and exposure. For the top-down analysis, a four-step risk characterization process was followed by first identifying the main types of water-related problems or disasters to focus on; second, defining the main hazard, exposure, and vulnerability indicators for each type of problem; third, carrying out a model-based analysis to quantify hazards at the gewog and sub- catchment level, and finally summarizing the findings on risk through series of hazard maps and risk tables. The results from the bottom-up regional consultations were integrated and evaluated together with the top-down hazard assessment results in the final step. Current risks and hazards Consultations with all Dzongkhags and four major Thromdes show that climate related hazards such as drying of sources, floods and landslides are regularly happening and perceived to be increasing. 31 Historical trends in temperature, rainfall and river flows confirm these perceptions only partly and with high uncertainty. It remains unclear to what extent perceived changes are due to climate change in comparison to anthropogenic pressures such as increased water demand, infrastructure, and land use management. The top-down quantitative assessment of potential future changes in dry spells, floods, landslides and GLOFs (based on climate projections of temperature, rainfall, and river flows) under climate change indicated that under climate change total annual precipitation is increasing while the underlying patterns of rainfall become more erratic. Temperature is clearly rising especially at higher altitudes. All together this leads to increasing risks of floods and landslides (medium-high confidence) throughout the whole country and potential increase of the duration and frequency of dry spells (medium confidence) in large parts of the country. Also, an increasing risk for GLOFs is likely. Despite uncertainty in climate change projections and hydrological analysis, results agree with other sources and offer a clear perspective for action. It is evident that disaster risk management in Bhutan (including prevention measures) needs full attention to be ready to cope with more frequent and intense rainfall events. The resilience and robustness of water sources and supply for drinking and irrigation water needs to be improved to support economic growth and improved living standards and cope with climate change at the same time. The hydropower sector will need to better enable its existing and new facilities to cope with more erratic river flow patterns. Future risks and hazards for water Risks of local dry spells at Gewog level are expected to increase under climate change for large parts in the country (see Figure 28 & 29) enhancing the drying of sources that are already clearly visible to date. This will increase the challenge to keep up to speed in supplying the growing water demand for drinking, industrial and irrigation water. Figure 28: Expected relative change (%) at Gewog level in dry spell duration (upper) and frequency (lower panels) under climate change (RCP4.5) compared to historic climate 32 Figure 29: Expected relative change (factor) at gewog level in extreme daily precipitation for the 1/10 year return period (upper) and 1/30 year return period (lower panels) under climate change (RCP4.5) compared to historic climate Increase of frequency and duration of low flows in main rivers is assessed as an uncertain risk for Bhutan, as projections of periods of low flows both show decrease and increases in dry spells. For RCP4.5 (current emission trajectory) periods of low flows for the short term (2035) are decreasing than increasing. For the long term (2085) the opposite is true. The risks of increased floods, both pluvial and riverine are assessed as quite high. There are already many serious reports on flash floods and at the same times the projected changes especially for the second half of the century are substantial. Rainfall events, potentially triggering landslides, is highly likely to increase especially for the longer term. There are already many serious impacts of landslides occurring in the present and recent years. The melting of glaciers is already occurring under current warming and will continue to occur in the future under clearly increasing temperature trends that are stronger at higher altitudes. Historically GLOFs are a known phenomenon in glacial areas in Bhutan. Under projected temperature trends the risks on GLOF events will increase. Also projected extreme precipitation increases may add to the increasing risks. Adaptation options for water: Based on the risk assessment for water including consultations with stakeholders at all levels, several adaption options were identified as part of the final assessment report: • Strengthening ecosystems is the basis for a resilient water system. The natural capacity for infiltration and water buffering therefore should be maximized by improving the existing system for watershed protection and management. In addition, ecosystem management can prevent fast runoff and erosion. Actions include wetland restoration, reforestation, preventing overgrazing, applying agriculture practices that minimize erosion. • Improved flood risk management and planning. To create more robust river systems, maximize the discharge capacity of rivers and streams by instituting no build zones, remove bottlenecks 33 and if needed build emergency storage, bypasses and by controlled releases from glacial lakes. These actions could be prioritized in flood risk management plans. • Protect critical infrastructures and settlements against floods and landslides by applying flood mitigation structures, slope stabilization, improved drainage systems in urban areas. • Develop more resilient infrastructure on different levels: i) better planning of roads and settlements to avoid most susceptible areas, ii) climate resilient design of roads, supply and sanitation infrastructures (new or to be replaced), and iii) operation and maintenance of infrastructure (aimed at fast recovery). • Improve early warning and response and recovery capacity. Expand and improve existing early warning systems for GLOFs and other types of flash floods. Make sure that relief funds (and other mechanisms e.g. insurance) for fast repair and recovery of properties and infrastructures and to compensate for damages are in place. • Increase robustness of sectoral water supply and demand for drinking and irrigation water. Where needed generate additional water buffers to overcome periods of drought. Low regret actions that can be started at the short-term are the restoration of existing sources, household level rainwater harvesting or creation of additional storage capacity at community level (e.g. in ground water aquifers). It is also important to continue and intensify the improvement of the water use efficiency in domestic and agricultural supply and demand. • The fast development of Bhutan at some locations (e.g. larger towns, agricultural or tourism centers) may also require a step-change in water supply systems. For the short-term further study could be started to see effectiveness of larger scale multi-purpose reservoirs, larger water supply schemes or sustainable use of ground water can add extra robustness on the longer term. • Increase the climate resilience of the Hydropower sector through existing and new built hydropower facilities to cope with more erratic flow patterns and increase of disaster risks. Actions include upstream watershed management and downstream disaster risk management as well as exploration of new technologies. • Enabling actions such as training and capacity building of local experts, planners, and operators. Research on impact and adaptation is needed for example on the contribution of groundwater and the cryosphere to seasonal water availability, on more detailed exposure scenarios (e.g. on future land use and water demand) and at potential and feasibility of specific adaptation strategies. Other actions include monitoring to get a better understanding on climate, hydrology, and impacts on the water sector. It is recommended to choose a comprehensive set of indicators in line with Bhutan water security index (BWSI) system. 34 2.2.2 ASSESSMENT OF CLIMATE RISKS ON AGRICULTURE FOR NATIONAL ADAPTATION PLAN (NAP) IN BHUTAN Agriculture is an important sector for Bhutan with about half of the population engaged in agriculture and livestock rearing. While agriculture is highly vulnerable to climate change, the agriculture sector in Bhutan already faces major challenges from limited arable land, poor mountainous soils and difficult terrain leading to high costs of marketing and distribution. Current climate vulnerabilities include uncertain weather conditions, pests and diseases and climate hazards such as high variability in rainfall, thunderstorms, hailstorms, and windstorms. Disruptions to agricultural land and the supply chain from extreme events such as flash floods and landslides are threats to food production. Climate risk assessment for agriculture was conducted using DSSAT (Decision Support System for Agro- technology Transfer) model and GIS mapping at gewog level. The IPCC’s concept of climate risk assessment through evaluation of vulnerability, exposure and hazards was used in the assessment (see figure 30). For the risk assessment, 11 crops including different varieties of cereals, vegetables, fruit crops, and spices with economic and food security importance in Bhutan were assessed. Figure 30: Composite vulnerability map for agriculture. Results of crop modelling Key findings of the crop modelling exercise are as follows: • Paddy can be expanded in 8 dzongkhags (Bumthang, Haa, Samdrup Jongkhar, Sarpang, Trashigang, Trashi Yangtse and Trongsa dzongkhags) and Maize in all the dzongkhags except in Bumthang, Gasa, Haa and Paro • Quinoa can be further expanded in 8 dzongkhags (Bumthang, Haa, Pema Gatshel, Samdrup Jongkhar, Sarpang, Thimphu, Trashi Yangtse and Wangdue Phodrang dzongkhags) • Vegetables can be expanded in the following dzongkhags o Chillies and potatoes can be expanded in Bumthang, Haa, Paro, Thimphu and Wangdue Phodrang dzongkhags. o Expansion in the area is suitable for tomato crops in Chhukha, Haa, Paro, Punakha, Thimphu and Wangdue Phodrang dzongkhags 35 o Onion can be expanded only in three dzongkhags viz., Lhuentse, Trongsa, and Wangdue Phodrang. • In terms of fruits, o Citrus can be expanded 7 dzongkhags (Dagana, Monggar, Samdrup Jongkhar, Sarpang, Trashigang, Tsirang and Zhemgang) o Apple can be expanded in Bumthang, Chhukha, Lhuentse, Paro, Thimphu and Trashi Yangtse dzongkhags o Kiwi can be expanded in Dagana, Samdrup Jongkhar, Sarpang and Tsirang. • Cardamom, a spices crop can be expanded in Dagana, Haa, Samtse and in Sarpang dzongkhags. The study shows the current significant trends in climate change, the possibility of further changes, and the growing scope of possible climatic impacts make it imperative to address agricultural adaptation comprehensively. The study also highlights that there are opportunities for implementing adaptation measures in synergy with mitigation action. However, while the study showed potential areas of expansion of the crops, the study notes the limitations in the various types of data inputs, particularly at gewog level. Some of the data limitations included ground realities in land availability, soils pests and diseases, extreme events. Recommendations for the NAP: The study identified nine key adaptation measures based on stakeholder consultation and expert opinions. The most common recommendation was on training and capacity development. This includes advocacy for national plans, making farming a lucrative option for youths, better awareness among local leaders and extension agents, climate- smart agriculture, and livestock management training. 1) Enhance water use efficiency and promote sustainable management of water resources a. Improved resilience of irrigation infrastructure b. Increased water uses efficiency and water management 2) Strengthen Agro-met services and climate information systems a. Strengthen Agro-met services and climate information systems 3) Promote and upscale sustainable land management (SLM) programs through enhanced technologies a. Sustainable Land and Soil Management b. Conserve, develop and promote climate-resilient crop varieties and climate-smart technologies to improve sustainable production systems c. Institute pest surveillance systems and strengthen diagnostic facilities 4) Development of integrated agriculture landscape system approach a. Development of integrated agriculture landscape system approach 5) Promote landscape based organic farming for enhanced production and sustained livelihood systems. 6) Promote sustainable practices and innovative solutions to reduce crop loss and food waste, improve post-harvest technologies, and institute financing mechanisms to insulate farmers from climate-induced disasters. 36 a. Develop Integrated Food Framework, Qualified market development and export, promote Crop Insurance and Incentive Systems 7) Climate resilient livestock management. 8) Increase institutional capacity and investment in climate change research. 9) Climate-smart information and knowledge management enhanced. 2.2.3 CLIMATE MEDIATED FIRE RISKS ASSESSMENT ON FORESTS AND BIODIVERSITY FOR NATIONAL ADAPTATION PLAN (NAP) FORMULATION PROCESS IN BHUTAN Forests remain central to the wellbeing and prosperity of Bhutan. From providing for water and critical environmental services, forests are inexorably tied to Bhutan’s food, water, and energy security. Today, with an estimated 70% of her total land under forests, Bhutan continues to remain carbon negative. Being in the eastern Himalayas, Bhutan’s forests are also an amazing repository of biodiversity. With climate change, forests will be subjected to multiple threats ranging from pests and diseases to diebacks and fire related risks. Fire related damage to forests will severely imperil biodiversity and constrain the provisioning of critical ecosystem services, and fire related loss of forests will significantly reduce Bhutan’s carbon sink capacity and endanger Bhutan’s ability to remain carbon neutral. Such loss will also, ultimately, compromise Bhutan’s constitutional mandate to maintain 60% under forest cover for all times to come. Fire risk assessment: Due to the frequent and increasing risks from forest fires, fire behaviour (flame length and rate of spread) was modelled for RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5 scenarios, for 2021-2051 (short-term), 2052-2069 (mid- term), and 2070-2100 (long-term). Climate mediated fire risks: Forest fires in Bhutan continue to take a substantial toll on wildlife and biodiversity with annual fire incidences averaging about 57 events and scarring an average of about 200 hectares annually. Dzongkhags such as Thimphu, Wangdue Phodrang, Punakha, Mongar, Lhuentse and Trashigang have experienced the most fires. Current fires are mostly concentrated in the chir pine and blue pine forests, with occasional fires within sub-tropical broadleaved forests. The main causes for forest fires are agriculture debris burning; children playing with ignition sources; lemon grass harvesters; smokers; cattle herders; roadside workers; picknickers; campfires; and electric short circuits. As climate becomes more extreme, both flame length and rate of fire spread will increase. Almost 90% of Chir pine forests fall under high risk from now until 2050, followed by blue pine, with over 60% being subjected to high risk (See Figure 31). In terms of forest areas at risk, Athang and Daga Gewogs in Wangdue, and Saleng Gewog in Mongar, are at most risk within the chir pine zone in the short time frame (now till 2050). 37 20000 17812 18000 16000 14000 12000 km2 10000 8000 6000 5246 4000 2332 2000 1021 1021 0 Fir Mixed Conifer Blue Pine Chir Pine Broadleaved Figure 31: Forest types, area coverage (total height), and portion under risk (hashed section) in each forest type from now till 2050 Although all forest types will be impacted by fire according to risk projections, given the size of broadleaved forests and the fuel models used, broadleaved forests below 2000m asl show up to be at most risk. Given that these broadleaved forests are currently not subject to frequent and intensive forest fires, forest composition and biodiversity in these forests will be severely impacted should fires do occur at the projected rates. Over 9,000 km2 of broadleaved forests (<2000 masl) are projected to be at high fire risk from now to 2050. Broadleaved forests will also have most houses at risk from now until 2050, followed by chir pine and blue pine forest belts. An estimated 1,747 households will be at a high fire risk within the chir pine zones as we move from now till 2050 (figure 32), and an estimated 598 households will be at a high risk within the blue pine zones as we move from now till 2050. Overall, across Bhutan, a total of 18,490 households along with 549 religious structures will be at increased risk from forest fires as we move from now to 2050. 38 Figure 32: Figure 32: Gewogs with most houses at risk in Chir pine forests under RCP 4.5 from now till 2050 Next steps and recommendations: In the short-term, the risk of forest fire is most at the mid-altitudes in the temperate montane forests. Risks also extends to the subtropical vegetation zone. Both flame length and the rate of fire spread are expected to increase in all forest types (except for fir) under both RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5, and for all time slices. This means forest fires will be more intense with increasing possibility of more crown fires. Coupled with a faster rate of spread, the possibility of larger fires burning over longer periods are an imminent possibility. In the short (10 years) to medium-term (30 years), given the impending risks, adaptation efforts should be ramped up in high-risk forest types and settlements. Strengthen Adaptative Fire Management Within chir pine forests, controlled burning should be encouraged, particularly within lemon grass growing areas, to manage fuel loads. Research into optimal burning cycles, seedling recruitment, burn intensity, mortality and recovery rates, should be initiated immediately to provide management recommendations. The National Forest Policy of 2011 allows for active use of fire as an ecosystem management tool. Within blue pine forests, scientifically determined thinning prescriptions should be 39 implemented to reduce forest flammability and encourage tree growth to meet economic purposes. Research should also be initiated on how grazing practices mediate forest fuel availability. Secure Infrastructure at Risk Adaptation and fire risk mitigation measures should be actively pursued to protect communities and important national infrastructure, where risk of ignition or spread from adjoining forest areas is high. Woody fuels should be removed for 10 meters around structures at risk. In addition, remaining trees and large shrubs should be pruned carefully to raise the crowns 1-2 meters above the ground surface. Water storage systems and fire hydrants should be built around key infrastructure supported by solar powered systems, in case of breakdown in energy supply systems. Fire safety protocols to minimize risk and contain fire outbreaks should be developed and distributed to all facilities at risk. Reduce Forest Fire Causes One of the major causes of forest fire is sparks generated by electrical short circuits from powerlines and old transformers. Throughout Bhutan, cross-country electrical transmission and distribution corridors have not been maintained properly and cleared of woody vegetation. A systematic maintenance program for such corridors needs to be established in consultation with relevant stakeholders including Druk Green Power Corporation, Department of Hydropower Services and Bhutan Power Corporation. Apart from the cases relating to electrical short circuits, almost all fires are caused by people and their activities. Therefore, DoFPS should continue to pursue public awareness and education campaigns. Strengthen Response Capability The ability to effectively contain and fight forest fire needs to be strengthened, firstly, by equipping the DoFPS, and related fire- fighting partner agencies, with a basic set of fire- fighting equipment. To facilitate faster response times and to minimize risks to humans and property, a daily fire forecasting system based on weather forecasts should be developed and made readily available by region. Such as system should be tied into warning systems which are already being rolled out and implemented by the National Center for Hydrology and Meteorology. Fires will become larger as the climate warms. In addition, the duration of large fires will increase. A national fire cache should be developed to provide tents, sleeping bags, food, and tools for large, long- duration fires. The DoFPS should identify, build, and manage about two to three such caches at strategic locations to ensure coverage of all Bhutan and effectively manage and control large fires. All local level forest plans should be integrated so that resource management as well as fire protection objectives are achieved in a holistic and coherent manner. More importantly, consistent budgetary support should be ensured to successfully implement these plans. Strengthen Outreach & Capacity Building The DoFPS should schedule and rollout a multi-year training and outreach program covering the following topics: ▪ Incident management system and coordination ▪ Equipment handling (including handling of drones, power chainsaws, communication sets, GPS) ▪ Safety procedures and first aid ▪ Prescribed burn techniques based on prescribed burn plans 40 ▪ Smoke jumpers in coordination with the Department of Local Governance and Disaster Management and Royal Bhutan Helicopter Services for first response in areas where there is no/limited access. 2.2.4 CLIMATE CHANGE RISK ASSESSMENT ON HEALTH SECTOR FOR NATIONAL ADAPTATION PLAN (NAP) FORMULATION PROCESS IN BHUTAN Several documents related to climate change and health were reviewed for the study. Further, existing academic and grey literature on these subjects were reviewed to understand the linkages between climate change and diseases. As part of this, the Risk-Impact framework proposed by the Fifth Assessment Report of IPCC (IPCC AR 5) was identified as suitable methodology to study climate risks on health in Bhutan. Risk of climate change impacts on health was assessed using IPCC approach of measuring risk (or impact) (R) as a function of hazard (H), exposure (E) and vulnerability (V). Present Vulnerability and Risk Assessments: Hazard: The three major components and its indicators used to assess hazards for each of the Dzongkhags are Climate variability, Extreme weather events and cases of Vector Borne Diseases/Water Borne Diseases (VBD/WBD) The overall hazard ranking brings Chhukha, Punakha and Sarpang at the highest for VBDs and WBDs. This is because of various factors such as change in temperature, rainfall, humidity, impact of floods, GLOFs in addition to the Dzongkhag-level cases of the diseases. Exposure: The current analysis uses population density as exposure. Population density is a key determinant in the spread of diseases and number of people getting impacted due to climate change. Bhutan has around 20 persons/km2. Thimphu has the highest population density (67 persons/km2) followed by Samtse, Chhukha, Paro and Tsirang. Bumthang, Haa, Lhuentse and Gasa have the lowest population density with 4-5 persons/km2 Sensitivity: Sensitivity reflects the degree of response to a given shift in climate. As a result, the biophysical effects of climate change on environment and community are broadly grouped under the sensitivity component. This includes factors that increase the vulnerability of the system such as demographic profile, changes in ecosystem, urbanization, poverty, and health related indicators etc. On aggregation of all the major sensitivity components, Punakha, Dagana, Zhemgang and Monggar are at the highest sensitivity for Vector Borne Diseases (VBDs) impacts and Lhuentse, Trashiyangtse. Dagana, Monggar and Zhemgang are at the highest for Water Borne Diseases (WBDs). Adaptive Capacity: Adaptive capacity describes the general ability of systems and individuals to adjust to potential damages, to take advantage of opportunities and to cope with the consequences of climate change. Taking into consideration all sub-components of adaptive capacity – knowledge, infrastructure, access to basic facilities, health infrastructure, Thimphu, Sarpang and Bumthang had the highest adaptive capacity and Gasa, Dagana, Tsirang and Zhemgang had the least. Risk: When the existing socio-economic and health vulnerabilities are compounded with the climate hazards and population density, Samtse, Chukha, Punakha and Tsirang rank the highest for VBDs while Bumthang, Gasa, Haa and Lhuentse rank the lowest. For WBDs, Punakha, Paro, Samtse and Chhukha are the high-risk districts. 41 Future Risk Assessments: To understand how communities/regions may be affected by future climatic change, future climate change risk Dzongkhag level maps were produced. Climate change scenarios - RCP 4.5 and 8.5 and different timescales (2022-2050) were assessed to understand the future evolution of VBD/WBD risk in Bhutan. Model 1: Future projection for Dengue in Bhutan: Based on historical disease data for Dengue, projections were prepared under RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5 scenario for 2021-50, 2051-69 and 2070-2099. The future projections for Dengue show that over the next 30 years, in a business-as-usual scenario, the number of cases in Bhutan can increase to around 3,000 cases per year. These dengue cases would be concentrated in the Dzongkhags of Chhukha, Samtse and Thimphu due to climate variability and pre-existing cases of Dengue that puts these Dzongkhags at increased risk of transmission (figure 33). For the period 2051-69, the total number of cases per year continue to stay around 3,000 per year, however the severity in terms of the concentration of diseases in previously less affected Dzongkhags increases. Monggar and Trashigang show a higher share of dengue cases as opposed to 2021-59. Under RCP8.5, Trongsa and Samdrup Jongkhar come under high-risk Dzongkhags. For the period 2070-99, the total number of cases are likely to increase to 4,400 cases per year. The distribution of the cases across Dzongkhags remains concentrated in the three most affected Dzongkhags of Thimphu, Samtse and Chhukha. Population at risk of Dengue under RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5 is calculated based on the population projections for Bhutan for the year 2047. Result shows that about 44% of the population of Bhutan is at risk of Dengue and there is an increase in population at medium risk from RCP4.5 to RCP 8.5 scenario. Figure 33: Future projection for climate risk to Dengue under RCP 4.5 (2021 -50) 42 Model 2: Future projection of Malaria cases in Bhutan: Based on the analysis for future projections of malaria, it was found that rainfall, maximum and minimum temperatures, rainfall at the 3-month lag, maximum temperature at the 3-month lag is positively correlated with malaria incidences at 95% confidence level. Presently case of malaria is seen in in Sarpang, Chhukha, Samtse, Samdrup Jongkhar and Wangdue Dzongkhag. The future projection of malaria shows that over the next 30 years, in a business-as-usual scenario, the number of cases per year could double under RCP4.5 scenario increasing to around 150 cases per year. Higher percentage share of malaria cases can be seen in the eastern Dzongkhags on the southern border of Bhutan. These are Zhemgang, Sarpang, Pema Gatshel and Samdrup Jongkhar (figure 34). Under RCP 8.5, total cases increase by around 7% and percentage share of cases increase in Samtse. For the period 2051-69, the overall cases reduce, however the geographical distribution of malaria across Dzongkhags is higher under RCP4.5 and RCP8.5 scenarios. Trongsa, Sarpang and Samdrup Jongkhar have the greatest number of cases. For the period 2070-99, cases increase to around 162 per year under RCP4.5 and 191 per year under RCP8.5 scenario. Dzongkhags with more than 8% of the total cases continue to be Trongsa, Sarpang and Samdrup Jongkhar. Population at risk of malaria under RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5 is calculated based on the population projections for Bhutan for the year 2047. Result shows that ~14% of the population of Bhutan is at risk and there is an increase in population at high risk from RCP4.5 to RCP 8.5 scenario. Figure 34: Future projection for climate risk to Malaria under RCP 4.5 (2021 -50) Model 3: Future projections for Diarrhoea: Based on the Diarrhoea data for the period 2016-20, different future projection models such as the Poisson regression model were applied to understand future projections of diarrhoea in Bhutan. However, none of these models gave a significant correlation between climatic factors and cases of Diarrhoea at the Dzongkhag level. This could be because the observed data on temperature and 43 precipitation at the Dzongkhag level does not show a consistent correlation pattern with cases of Diarrhoea. The other possibility could be that there is an issue in the disease data for the period 2016- 20 Next steps and Recommendations The integrated analysis based on risk mapping, vulnerability assessment and adaptive capacity identifies Chhukha, Punakha, Samtse, and Tsirang Dzongkhags at higher risk of VBDs and Punakha, Paro, Chhukha and Samtse at highest risk of WBDs. Hence, based on the findings, the study recommends, prioritizing Chhukha, Punakha, Samtse that are common for both diseases followed by Paro and Tsirang. These recommendations focus on adaptation planning for these Dzongkhags predominantly. In-depth analysis of the identified Dzongkhags and consultations with key stakeholders have helped in identifying the alongside framework for our recommendations. An overview framework of adaptation planning is also recommended (figure 35) along with interventions at national and regional to local levels in the short to medium and long term. Integrate Disease specific Strengthen WASH safeguards in urban interventions in urban planning zones Capacity Development Increase Inter-sectoral Stregthen Disease and international Monitoring and collaboration Surveillance Figure 35: Overview framework of adaptation planning for health. 2.2.5 CLIMATE CHANGE VULNERABILITY ANALYSES AND MAPPING FOR NAP FORMULATION PROCESS IN BHUTAN 2021 A climate change vulnerability analysis (CCVA) and mapping was conducted with a focus on socio- economic and non-climatic, development data. This assessment was carried out to complement the climate risk assessments for key sectors with view of enhancing the understanding of the scale of impact of climate change on a geographic level in Bhutan across dzongkhags and gewogs. The assessment involved developing an impact chain based on existing literature and studies. Data was gathered from publicly available data sources, along with stakeholder consultations and the vulnerability index and risk index was calculated for each dzongkhag. This was followed by subsequent preparation of GIS maps. The approach was based on the Climate Change Risk Assessment Framework as per the fifth assessment report (AR5) of Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). The impact chain developed for this assessment and the various components of the risk framework and corresponding indicators is presented in Figure 36. Three levels of projections were carried for (i) climate variability (hazards), (ii) population (exposure) and socio-economy (vulnerability). The time slices for future risk and vulnerability assessments were conducted for 2022, 2027, 2032, 2037, 2042, 2047 and 2050 taking 5-year intervals and aligned to the census years. 44 Figure 36: Impact chain and components of the IPCC risk framework and i ndicators used for calculation of vulnerability and risk across dzongkhags and gewogs in Bhutan. Results and finding Present risk Risk (or impact) is a function of hazard, exposure, and vulnerability and when the existing socio- economic vulnerabilities are compounded with the climate hazards and population density, Samtse, Monggar, Sarpang, Punakha and Dagana as five most at risk from climate impacts in Bhutan (See figure 37). Figure 37: Present risk ranking across dzongkhags. Future risk under socio-economic growth and climate change. 45 Figures 38 and 39 illustrate the future climate risk under RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5 scenarios respectively. By 2050, under RCP 4.5, Tsirang, Paro, Samtse, Thimphu, Pema Gatshel show very high risk which means a total population of 469,595 will be exposed to a very high climate change risk. Dzongkhags like Thimphu with high adaptive capacity are at risk due to the high density of population that is exposed to climate hazards. The risk maps also indicate that future risk status remains unchanged in almost all the Dzongkhags during the period between 2022 and 2050. Dzongkhags like Punakha, Samdrup Jongkhar, Zhemgang, Sarpang, Trashiyangtse show an increasing trend in relative ranking of future risk. This CCVA mapping exercise provides information about the social and economic impacts of climate change to inform adaptation planning and prioritisaion of geographic areas during implementation. Figure 38: Future climate risk across Bhutan under RCP 4.5 46 Figure 39: Future climate risk across Bhutan under RCP 8.5 47 3. ADAPTATION PRIORITIES, NEEDS AND ENABLING ACTIVITIES The priority needs for adaptation and the enabling activities have been determined based on the vulnerability assessments as described in Chapter 2 and several rounds of technical workshops and stakeholder consultations as described in Chapter 1 under the description on NAP preparation process. The NAP consolidates the priority actions and needs from recent vulnerability assessments under the NAP Readiness Project as well as the adaptation priorities previously conveyed in the 1 st NDC (2015), and the Third National Communication. In addition, other cross cutting strategies such as the National REDD+ Strategy, National Biodiversity Strategic Action Plan (under UNCBD), National Action Plan (under the UNCCD) and other sectoral strategies were also consulted. This chapter presents the following categories of priorities, needs and actions. (i) priority actions and needs to address vulnerabilities and climate risks across seven sectors, (ii) enabling activities required to support the implementation of the priority adaptation needs and ensuring an effective NAP process. The organisation of the key priorities for adaptation and enabling activities follow and build on the format in the third national communication to ensure coherence and continuity in adaptation planning and communication. Activities have been identified for strategic objectives and actions over the short term (up to 5 years) and in the medium term (over 5 – 15 years). The two timeframes are intended as a rolling workplan for the continuous, iterative, progressive nature of adaptation planning and implementation. The priority needs and actions are presented as summaries in this chapter and further details including key performance indicators, estimated costs, and responsible agencies and collaborating partners are presented in Part II of the NAP document. The summary of the estimates cost for the detailed adaptation priorities and enabling activities are in annex 1. All costs are estimated based on expert judgement and are subject to change during further evaluation when actions and programs are further developed for implementation as part of projects or integrated into national plans programs. Approaches to consolidating the numerous adaptation priorities into few thematic programs or programmatic approaches is explored in Chapter 4 as part of the implementation strategies. As discussed in Chapter 5 on monitoring and evaluation, key performance indicators (KPI) have been included to aid the monitoring and evaluation for the implementation of the NAP. Furthermore, the structure of the priorities, needs and enabling activities in this chapter is also intended to support future reporting on the NAP, Adaptation Communication and for the Biennial Transparency Reporting. While developing the adaptation priorities and needs, the opportunities for integrating gender considerations and the engagement of the private sector were also reviewed and included (see text box 3). 48 Box 3: Gender considerations in the NAP process. Gender integration in the NAP Process for Bhutan: The principles of the NAP process call for including gender equality considerations and disaster risk management. While assessments of gender issues in climate change in Bhutan has not been assessed or studied, a limited number of reports have been produced in recent times. The ‘Gender and Climate Change in Bhutan, with a focus on selected Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) Priority Areas: Agriculture, Energy and Waste’ prepared by the NCWC and NEC in 2020, covers a few limited sectors. A few other scoping reports for project proposals were also prepared in previous years. Nevertheless, the preparation of the NAP process used a concerted effort to integrate gender issues wherever possible based on the information available and the consultation process. Gender considerations have been included in the preparation of Bhutan’s NAP as follows: Differentiated impacts of climate change: all Climate change risk assessments done for the four key sectors of health, agriculture, forests & biodiversity, and water analysed differentiated impacts of Climate change on gender and provides recommendations for addressing differentiated impacts of Climate change on gender. Stakeholder engagement: the stakeholder engagement plan developed for the NAP process identifies gender as an integral part of the National adaptation planning and clearly specifies the role of gender and agencies like NCWC while at the same time ensuring gender consideration in national polices, plans and strategies. NAP Formulation: while developing the adaptation priorities and needs, the opportunities for integrating gender considerations and the engagement of the private sector were also reviewed and included. NAP Document: gender considerations, traditional and local knowledge are integrated into the priorities and plans and throughout chapters of the NAP, including as specific activities in the adaptation priorities and needs. M&E for NAP: to ensure adaptation activities when implemented considers the differences in knowledge level, capacity, needs of women and benefits from adaptation implementation are reaped by all section of the communities. Gender disaggregated data for monitoring and reporting is to be collected. Capacity enhancements: educating for identifying gender differences in adaptation needs and capacities, participation and influence in decisions making, and benefits resulting from investments in adaptation is equitably accessible. 3.1 ADAPTATION PRIORITIES AND NEEDS The priority adaptation needs are clustered as programs and actions over seven thematic sectors. While it was found that many of the priorities are cross-cutting in nature and interlinked, the seven sectors are prioritised based on a review of vulnerable sectors from several exercises and strategies such as the Stocktaking for the NAP process, the Third National Communication, the Adaptation Component of the first NDC, and other climate programs such as the Strategic Program for Climate Resilience and Country Work Program for the GCF. The types of interventions across the seven sectors ranged from direct interventions through technology transfer, infrastructure investments, to soft components such as market access, capacity building and management of information and data. Two thematic approaches also emerged prominently across the sectors and among the variety of actions and activities, in the form of 49 ecosystem-based adaptation approaches (landscape, habitats, forests, ecosystems, watersheds) and human settlement services (rural and urban). Priorities for climate services and disaster risk reduction are considered as cross cutting issues. The final seven sectors identified for the NAP are: (i) Water (ii) Agriculture and Livestock (iii) Forests and Biodiversity (iv) Human Settlements & Climate Smart Cities (v) Health (vi) Energy (vii) Climate Services and Disaster Risk Reduction A summary of the adaptation priorities across the seven sectors is presented below. These priorities are presented in further detail in Part II of this NAP document. 3.1.1 WATER The vulnerability of water resources is identified as one of the major climate risks in Bhutan and will affect all sectors, from food production, energy, human settlements, and the industry. The priorities in the water sector are therefore cross cutting across many sectors and stakeholder groups. The adaptation priorities in water sector take a holistic approach including nature-based solutions. The interventions range from securing and managing natural sources of water to ensuring optimal use and management of water for drinking. Ensuring efficient and sustainable use of water for agriculture and other key infrastructure investments is also included for the water sector to ensure an integrated approach to water management. The management of water discharge after consumption for human needs is covered in the priorities for human settlements. The strengthening of institutional capacity for water management including enhancing existing institutions like water user groups, strengthening capacity of key stakeholders and continuing research is essential to support a continuous and iterative adaptation. Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term Objective Outcome (0-5 years ) activities (5-15 years)

1 Improve Healthy and Ecosystem based Assessment of wetlands, Effective natural resilient adaptation to ensure watersheds and spring sheds implementation of capacity for functioning natural capacity for and development and water legislation infiltration, ecosystem for water infiltration and implementation of intervention and IWRM. water water services. recharge through; (i) measures. recharge, and Ecosystem Sustainable water buffer restoration. Integrating of existing management of for prevention watershed management wetlands, of fast runoff (ii) Watershed interventions into Local Area watershed, and and erosion. management (iii) Plans/settlement plans and its spring sheds. Promotion of implementation traditional Conduct knowledge and Restoration of existing water watershed practices in water sources. modelling. conservation. 50 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term Objective Outcome (0-5 years ) activities (5-15 years) Implementation of Ecosystem Monitor based Adaptation infiltration, water buffers, fast runoff, and erosion. Strengthen and Strengthen and upscale PES. upscale PES. Review PES framework and field guide

2 Optimal use of Robust water River basin planning. Conduct feasibility studies to Build emergency available resources build emergency storage, storage, bypasses water planning and bypasses, and controlled and controlled discharge monitoring releases from glacial lakes. releases from system. glacial lakes if River basin management and found feasible. planning for basin optimization. Monitoring and evaluation of river basin management plan Promotion of water Enhance research and efficient technologies development on water efficient technologies. Conduct advocacy on water efficient technologies

3 Ensuring Improved Ensuring proper Assessing the efficiency of Explore and climate access to safe monitoring, planning existing water treatment improve water resilient drinking water. and supply of facilities and water supply treatment and supply of safe drinking water network systems. supply network drinking water systems with under climate Explore alternative water proper change. supply technologies. management mechanisms. Expand the implementation of Water Safety Plans (WSPs) and Explore and build proper water supply systems additional storage with adequate design. facilities. Awareness programs for efficient water use. Provide training on plumbing water management and other related skills. Develop operation and maintenance guideline and standard 51 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term Objective Outcome (0-5 years ) activities (5-15 years) Harvesting Exploring volume of rainwater Integrating rainwater/fog for generated at water stressed rainwater/fog domestic use areas for domestic use. harvesting structures into Developing assessment guide buildings and for integration of holistic use of other amenities water resources Reduction of Non- Study of NRW in critical areas. Implementation of Revenue Water improvements to losses reduce NRW. Strengthen drinking Strengthening laboratory Strengthening water quality services to test and monitor water quality and monitoring and water quality monitoring surveillance information systems Strengthen Establishment of a database/inventory real time water on drinking water supply monitoring supply schemes system

4 Enhance water Improved ● Improve planning, Climate proofing of the Climate proofing use efficiency resilience of designing and irrigation facilities of the irrigation and promote irrigation implementation of (HDPE/concrete) facilities climate resilient sustainable infrastructure (HDPE/concrete) irrigation management infrastructures and of water systems resources for agriculture ● Exploring alternative means of irrigation (solar pumps and lift irrigation) Strengthen Development of irrigation Conduct database/inventory schemes database system modelling and on irrigation schemes simulations of discharge for proposed irrigation schemes

5 Strengthen Robust water Strengthening Water Review and strengthen WUAs. Monitoring and institutional resources User Associations evaluation of capacity for planning and (WUAs). Implementation of WUA WUAs. water monitoring guidelines. management system. Training on IWRM, formation of WUA and legalization, (management, accounting, etc.). 52 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term Objective Outcome (0-5 years ) activities (5-15 years) Strengthening Research on water resource Initiate use of research on water management including groundwater or resource groundwater resources and discontinue based management soil moisture. on findings from including the study. groundwater Enhance hydrological and resources. groundwater modelling. Carry out studies on the options for household/institution level rainwater harvesting or creating additional water storage capacity. Assess climate risk on water intensive industries (168 water intensive industries as of 2022) Enhancing capacity of Capacity development on Capacity key stakeholders in climate resilient water development on managing the infrastructures climate resilient impacts of climate water change on water Training onsite inspection, infrastructures Aerial survey using Drones and mapping using GIS Capacity development of flood and storm water management from river flooding and urban floods. Capacity development to Information generate forecast information disseminated on at sub-basin level so that early timely basis to all warning. sectors/ communities. information is disseminated on timely basis to all A robust real to sectors/communities. near real time information at suitable temporal (Daily to dissemination seasonal) and spatial (from system with river basin to sub-catchment) customizable to scale. requirements of different sectors. Build capacity for decision Continuous making and management of updates for critical communication technology and infrastructure, through refresher training. development of Road Asset Management System (RAMS), 53 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term Objective Outcome (0-5 years ) activities (5-15 years) Develop Decision Support System, GIS and other tools 3.1.2 AGRICULTURE AND LIVESTOCK Agriculture and livestock sector is an important sector for Bhutan with 51% of the population employed in agriculture and contributing about 17% of GDP. While food security is a key national priority, climate change impacts such as changes in water availability, increasing pests presents risks to the sector. The adaptation priorities for both agriculture and livestock are grouped in interventions for securing the resource base, managing losses from climate impacts and emerging threats, and enhancing resilience in food production. The interventions include integrated landscape approaches including sustainable land management, appropriate technologies, and management practices. The agriculture and livestock sector presents strong synergies for climate mitigation through landscape approaches such as agroforestry, sustainable soil and land management, promotion of organic and good agricultural management practices. The role of the private sector is identified in several areas of food production, market access, supply chain for the sector and risk management. Opportunities for integration of gender issues through appropriate technologies and engagement of women’s groups are also identified. Recent lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic such as risks in supply chain, food banking and risk of zoonotic events have also been integrated. Targeted training at sector and the decentralised level is also required for enhanced risk assessments and adaptation implementation. Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term activities Objective Outcome (0-5 years) (5-15 years)

1 Securing the Reduced Efficient Identify and set up permanent Continue research and natural vulnerability utilization of research plots to study the monitoring resource base of livestock alpine rangeland impact of climate change on for livestock farmers and diversity of grasses in grazing feed development of rangeland. and fodder agroforestry sources systems for Improve alpine rangeland livestock governance system Sustainable management and Sustainable management utilization of alpine rangeland and utilization of alpine resources rangeland resources Mapping and identification and assessment, of indigenous forage/grass species Enhanced Promote resilient fodder tree Promote resilient fodder availability of plantation. tree plantation. feeding resources 54 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term activities Objective Outcome (0-5 years) (5-15 years) through agro- Promote production of local Expand acreage for raw forestry system feed raw materials feed material production Promote pasture under agro- Expand pasture under agro- forestry system (orchard, silvo forestry system (orchard, pastoral) silvo pastoral) Upscale usage of crop Upscale usage of crop residues through enrichment residues through and fodder conservation enrichment and fodder conservation

2 Enhancing Enhanced Conservation Conservation and Continue program for resilience and adaptive and promotion development of native poultry Conservation and livestock capacity of of climate breeds development of native production livestock resilient native poultry breeds through farmers and livestock breeds appropriate the livestock technologies sector by and increasing management sustainable practices production Conservation and Continue Conservation and development of native piggery development of native breeds piggery breeds Development of suitable Bhutanese cattle breed through cross breeding Promotion of advanced livestock reproductive technologies (Sex sorted AI, ET,) for enhanced dairy productivity Promote climate Promote Effective smart livestock Microorganism Technology farming (EMT) in poultry and piggery practices farms through gender- and PWD- friendly farm- level technologies. Fencing on pastureland to reduce incidence of wildlife depredation on livestock 55 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term activities Objective Outcome (0-5 years) (5-15 years) Improve micro-climate conditions in animal sheds Expand apiculture for boosting Expand apiculture for honey production and boosting honey production enhance crop productivity and enhance crop productivity Water efficient and low-cost fodder production during lean season (hydroponics) Promote heat and cold resistant fodder varieties Adopt labour saving devices Scale up labour saving and equipment to reduce devices and equipment to drudgery on women and reduce drudgery on women vulnerable groups and vulnerable groups. Efficient Expand community-based utilisation of capture fisheries. natural water bodies and land resources to boost fish production Explore cage culture fisheries in inland water bodies and hydropower dams Explore and introduce low- Explore and introduce low- cost fish production cost fish production technologies (aquaponics) technologies (aquaponics) Utilization of GIS application for livestock spatial development (to map information, migratory cattle and yak remote sensing, herds) and ICT for delivery of efficient and effective livestock services Digitalization to generate real Digitalization to generate time data for informed real time data for informed decision making decision making

3 Managing Reduced Strengthen Strengthen capacity of Strengthen capacity of livestock losses vulnerability surveillance and livestock research centres and livestock research centres 56 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term activities Objective Outcome (0-5 years) (5-15 years) from climate of livestock forecasting laboratories to address and laboratories to address change impacts farmers system for emerging threats from climate emerging threats from and emerging against losses prevention and change impacts climate change impacts threats from climate control of change emerging animal impacts diseases and threats under climate change Institute recording and reporting system on livestock lost due to climate induced extremes Improve farm biosecurity Continue outreach and communication for farm biosecurity Strengthen transboundary animal disease reporting and management system Initiate herd health management Promote and popularize Continued research, traditional knowledge and outreach and practices for safe and communication on sustainable livestock traditional knowledge and production practices for livestock production.

4 Enhance water Improved ● Improve Promote adoption of micro Promote adoption of micro use efficiency resilience of planning, irrigation (Drip, sprinkler) by irrigation (Drip, sprinkler) and promote irrigation designing and increasing accessibility to by increasing accessibility implementation sustainable infrastructure farmers through simple, to farmers through simple, of climate management of resilient affordable, and smart affordable, and smart water irrigation technology technology resources for systems at farm agriculture level Rehabilitation of the traditional irrigation system to reduce water loss through climate proof structures integration In-situ water harvesting - diverting, inducing, collecting, storing, and conserving local surface runoff, spring water 57 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term activities Objective Outcome (0-5 years) (5-15 years) and rainwater for agriculture production Explore tail water management and usage.

5 Pursue an Increased Promote and Improve soil carbon, health, integrated resilience of upscale and fertility through adoption landscape the land and sustainable land of improved and integrated approach for ecosystem management soil nutrient management sustainable soil for food (SLM) programs practices and land production through management and nutrition enhanced for agriculture security technologies Residue management including bio-degradable mulching Agriculture land development Mapping of degraded areas, Mapping of degraded and soil erosion areas, and soil erosion Establish soil organic carbon monitoring, accounting, and reporting under different crop land Development of Promote Bhutan Good Promote Bhutan Good integrated Agriculture Practices (GAP) Agriculture Practices (GAP) agriculture and GMP and GMP landscape system approach Strengthen Bhutan GAP Continue Bhutan GAP certification process certification process Promote perennial crop (fruits Promote perennial crop & plantation crops production (fruits & plantation crops to enhance small holder farm production to enhance income and improve climate small holder farm income resilience production system and improve climate resilience production system

6 Managing food Reduced Institute pest Strengthen pest surveillance production vulnerability surveillance system and diagnostic losses from of farmers systems and facilities climate change against losses strengthen impacts and from climate 58 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term activities Objective Outcome (0-5 years) (5-15 years) emerging change diagnostic threats impacts facilities Develop and Promote Integrated Pest Management technologies Promote Develop efficient post-harvest sustainable infrastructures and practices and distribution system. innovative solutions to reduce crop loss, food waste and improve post-harvest technologies through improved value chain development to enhance resilience of farmers Promote cold storage facilities for agriculture products Establish efficient cold chain Establish efficient cold facilities at strategic locations chain facilities at strategic for livestock products locations Develop and promote local agro-diversity and knowledge- based products Assessment of food/crop losses in the food value chain (harvest, storage, transportation, consumption) Institute climate Initiate and promote We suggest policies risk insurance of livestock against developed. management for wildlife depredation and food production extreme climate conditions through insurance and compensation schemes covering climate change impacts 59 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term activities Objective Outcome (0-5 years) (5-15 years) Develop safety nets (example: Crop insurance and credit facilities) to cope during extreme weather events

7 Enhancing Enhanced Ensure Adopt innovative, gender resilience and sustainable women’s/ responsive technologies for food practices and Vulnerable smart climate resilient farming production innovative group access to through solutions for gender friendly appropriate food technologies at technologies production farm level and and management management practices Explore, Inventory/improve and Inventory/improve and develop, and promote climate resilient promote climate resilient promote climate indigenous varieties to adapt indigenous varieties to resilient crop to climate change impacts adapt to climate change varieties and impacts climate smart technologies to improve sustainable production systems Generate/develop/breeding Generate/develop/breeding and promote climate resilient and promote climate crop varieties resilient crop varieties Increase cropping intensity Increase cropping intensity through intensive climate through intensive climate smart cultivation systems smart cultivation systems (greenhouse, hydroponics, (greenhouse, hydroponics, aeroponics, vertical farming) aeroponics, vertical farming) Generate/develop and Generate/develop and promote and diversify nutri- promote and diversify dense crop varieties nutri-dense crop varieties Promote energy efficient and Promote energy efficient gender friendly farm and gender friendly farm machineries machineries

8 Conduct Targeted and Assess capacity Conduct capacity needs targeted enhanced needs for assessment (HR, training at capacity adaptation infrastructure & equipment) sector and building for planning and of relevant government decentralized adaptation implementation. institutions, SOEs and level for 60 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term activities Objective Outcome (0-5 years) (5-15 years) enhanced for food communities for climate assessment and security change adaptation. implementation of adaptation Targeted Capacity building of technical training on officials on climate change impacts of impact on agriculture climate change productivity and food security in food - including farm household production at models for strong decision sectoral to making community levels. Capacity building of livestock Capacity building of field staff and farmers livestock field staff and farmers 3.1.3 FORESTS AND BIODIVERSITY Bhutan’s forests cover most of the country’s land area (70.77%) and is a major factor in Bhutan achieving carbon neutral status. The forests are also a source for natural resources such as timber, non- wood forest products and other ecosystem services including as a store for fresh water. Furthermore, the different forests provide a variety of habitats for the rich biodiversity of Bhutan. Climate change poses great risk to forests and biodiversity, through potential changes in habitats and ecosystem functions. The increasing risks of forest fires due to drier and warmer winters not only threatens biodiversity but could also jeopardise Bhutan’s carbon sinks. The adaptation priorities for forests and biodiversity are developed in a highly synergistic approach and contributes to mitigation (carbon sink management) in line with the National REDD+ Strategy (NRS), biodiversity conservation in line with the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP), and disaster risk management. The interventions also aim to engage communities, private sector, and vulnerable groups as partners in management of the natural resources through people-centric programs. Opportunities to integrate gender responsive measures have also been included to the extent known and possible. The adaptation priorities address the great risk from forest fires, enhancing the assessment and monitoring of biodiversity under climate change, along with restoring and managing important areas and components of biodiversity in Bhutan. Invasive alien species and other emerging risks like zoonosis and spread of pest and diseases have also been identified in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Key interventions also include management of forest and biodiversity through scientific sustainable management and community engagement. 61 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term activities Objective Outcome (0-5 years) (5-15 years)

1 Strengthen Minimized risk Develop and Develop and implement Continue implementation forest fire of forest fire implement fire the forest fire of the plan management management management strategy and in Bhutan strategies and plans. plans through participatory and consultative approach Strengthen response Conduct Capacity Need Conduct periodic training capability on forest Assessment and build on forest fire management fire management capacity. for multi stakeholders Upscale and strengthen Implement advance early the Dzongkhag level fire warning systems management interventions. Integrate Dzongkhag and local level fire management plans Strengthen forest fire Strengthen support for surveillance and large fires and IFCG communication system (including forest fire suppression equipment) Enhance awareness Develop awareness Carry out awareness on forest fire program/ materials and campaigns management. carry out awareness Strengthen adaptive Manage fuel load Manage fuel load forest fire management Carry out post fire habitat Carry out post fire habitat management management

2 Enhance Updated Carry out long term Develop capacity to Continue support to assessment information on monitoring of monitor biodiversity and implementation of and Biodiversity biodiversity and support implementation biodiversity monitoring monitoring habitats of Bhutan Biodiversity protocol of Monitoring Protocol biodiversity Strengthen existing Updating the revamped database systems. database system Changes in Build capacity to Build capacity to conduct Develop database systems distribution of conduct national NFI and biodiversity and implement the flora and fauna inventories and survey database to document and researched biodiversity surveys monitor 62 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term activities Objective Outcome (0-5 years) (5-15 years) and documented Conduct periodic Develop NFI database Develop capacity to National Forest conduct NFI and data Inventory analysis Procure equipment and conduct NFI Develop a dynamic Develop and implement Integrate National Forest technology system to online National Forest Monitoring Portal into the track the real time Monitoring Portal to existing NFMS forest cover change monitor forest cover change on real time basis Strengthen Assess and enhance Implement molecular biodiversity technical capacity and techniques and assessment infrastructure methodologies for methodologies and biodiversity assessment techniques (molecular techniques for species delimitation) Develop City Stock-taking and Regular monitoring and Biodiversity Index identifying the baselines evaluation of the initiatives and developing the index and awareness.

3 Identify, Key important Enhance plantations Develop suitable restore, and biodiversity and regeneration in guidelines for plantations manage key conserved, SRF land and regeneration in important and climate broadleaved forest areas and resilience components value habitats of improved biodiversity Assess existing plantations and formulate suitable plantation techniques and regeneration methods Carry out plantation in Carry out plantation in identified broadleaved identified broadleaved forest (FMUs, LFMAs) and forest (FMUs, LFMAs) and maintain these sites maintain these sites through community through community engagement engagement Carry out reforestation in Maintenance of degraded areas in SRF reforestation in degraded areas in SRF 63 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term activities Objective Outcome (0-5 years) (5-15 years) Rehabilitate habitats Identification and and carry out mapping of sites requiring plantation restoration and rehabilitation Carry out habitat Carry out habitat management management interventions interventions such as such as enrichment enrichment plantations, plantations, grassland and grassland and alpine alpine meadow meadow management, management, salt licks, salt licks, snags, snags, waterholes, river waterholes, river back back protections, etc. in protections, etc. in identified areas identified areas Promote ex-situ Identification and conservation of mapping of fragile species with high risk habitats and species of extinction Develop and implement Implement sustainable sustainable restoration restoration plans. plans. Develop legal Development of the legal Approval and framework for framework implementation of the inclusion of wildlife framework movement friendly infrastructure to enable long term migration under climate change Enhance Zero Support to implementing Revise and implement Zero Poaching Strategy and the existing Zero Poaching Poaching Strategy reduce environmental Strategy crimes

4 Prevent and Incidences of Strengthen Identify and map areas Continue periodic control the zoonosis, pest surveillance and prone to pests and monitoring and increasing and diseases monitoring of diseases, and initiate surveillance of the incidences of and IAS are zoonosis, pest, and periodic monitoring and identified areas. zoonosis, minimized and diseases. surveillance pest and managed diseases and Invasive Alien Species (IAS) 64 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term activities Objective Outcome (0-5 years) (5-15 years) Project pest and disease Develop required spread through scientific mitigations/interventions modelling based on the results from the monitoring. Develop pest and disease Continue implement pest strategy and management and disease strategy and plan, and support management plan. implementation Implement program to monitor risk of emerging zoonotic diseases and implement response measures. Support implementation Support to review the of wildlife health strategy wildlife health strategy and continue to support implementation. Develop capacity on GIS & Develop capacity on GIS & RS, entomology, and RS, entomology, and Drone Drone mapping mapping Build capacity on Tools and equipment for Implementation of the assessment, control, control of alien species. strategy and management of invasive species Training on techniques for Development of control of alien invasive management plan for species priority alien and invasive species outside protected areas. Reduce the impacts of Implement IAS Strengthen surveillance IAS on biodiversity management plan and monitoring of IAS. forest ecosystem Prevent introduction and Prevent introduction and establishment of IAS and establishment of IAS and manage existing IAS manage existing IAS.

5 Control and Livelihood of Enhance landscape Support socio-ecological continue support to prevent communities approach to assessment of implementation of the degradation improved and conservation and Transboundary Peace management plan of the of forest their support promote alternative Park and support Peace Park cover and towards livelihood sources development and biodiversity conservation through nature-based implementation of its through and solutions/adaptation management plan. scientific sustainable sustainable forest 65 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term activities Objective Outcome (0-5 years) (5-15 years) management management and enhanced in community the Landscape engagement Identification of Other Implementation of the Effective Area Based management action plans Conservation Measures (OECMs) and development of plans for identified areas. Support to Revise and implement the implementation of the HWCM Strategy. Human Wildlife Conflict Management (HWCM) Strategy Support to Support to revision of implementation of the PA climate smart management management plan plans of PAs and implementation. Promote Community Continue support to Based Natural Resource revision and Management (Community implementation of CF, Forests, NWFP, NWFP and Agroforestry Agroforestry) plans Support to Support revision of implementation of FMU management plans of management Plan FMUs and implementation. Promote PES as landscape Promote PES as landscape approach to conservation approach to conservation Support community- Continue to promote based cottage scale forest community-based cottage enterprises (NWFP, scale forest enterprises Wood, Ecotourism) (NWFP, Wood, Ecotourism) Develop and Develop and implement Develop and implement implement strategy strategy for development strategy for sustainable for optimal utilization of wood-based industries timber harvesting and of timber resources. to reduce timber wastage utilization following circular economy concept Promote adoption of Promote adoption of efficient and climate efficient and climate smart smart timber processing timber processing technologies to improve technologies to improve wood-based industries wood-based industries to 66 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term activities Objective Outcome (0-5 years) (5-15 years) (WBI) to reduce wastage reduce wastage and and maximize timber maximize timber utilization. utilization. Carry out capacity Carry out capacity development program in development program in timber processing, wood timber processing, wood science and technology. science and technology. Promote people- Needs assessment in Develop nature-based centric biodiversity natural product products to derive benefits conservation and development and market and equitable sharing improve rural analysis among rural communities economy through Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS) Programs Infrastructure development (Lab and equipment’s) Promote Access and Promote Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS) Benefit Sharing (ABS) regime regime Enhancing the use of Documenting the Raising awareness on the local knowledge and traditional ecological use and importance of beliefs for the knowledge to establish indigenous knowledge conservation of baseline environmental biodiversity and forest information. Forest Build technical Human resource and enterprises capacity for Research infrastructure developed to and development in development. improve the bioprospecting. Procurement of livelihood of laboratory equipment communities and reduce degradation of forests and conservation of biodiversity enhanced Research on Research on phytochemical phytochemical analysis analysis and product and product development development

6 Ensure Increased Develop gender Stakeholder consultation Implement gender women’s access to responsive natural and drafting of framework responsive resources and other resources and access framework vulnerable 67 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term activities Objective Outcome (0-5 years) (5-15 years) groups capacity resources access assess to building framework. natural resources and capacity building Develop gender Stakeholder consultation Implement gender responsive capacity and drafting of capacity responsive capacity building plan building plan building plan 3.1.4 HUMAN SETTLEMENTS AND CLIMATE SMART CITIES With a rapidly urbanising population, climate proofing existing urban areas and other critical infrastructure is essential, as is preparing and implementing strategic plans for urban areas and human settlements. The priorities for the water sector are based on the detailed studies conducted for water in the NAP project, the 1st and 2nd NDCs, the Low Emission Development Strategy for Human Settlements and the Third National Communication. There are great synergies for mitigation and adaptation in urban areas and human settlements as already identified in these documents. For example, energy savings from residential and commercial areas due to energy efficiency and renewable energy generation (solar roofs) reduce the uncertainty of hydropower and function as both adaptation and mitigation measures. Securing ecosystem services in the form of ‘green infrastructure’ around and within human settlements are nature-based solutions for both mitigation and adaptation. The adaptation priorities for human settlements centre around developing climate smart cities and human settlements that leverages green infrastructure and ecosystem-based adaptation. Climate proofing existing critical infrastructure such as roads, bridges, houses, industrial areas, and agricultural infrastructure is also needed. Measures are identified to adapt to increasing floods, landslides, windstorms, and urban heat island effects. Besides hard infrastructure investments, soft interventions like risk assessments, research and data, policies and regulations and preparedness are also identified to enhance climate resilience in human settlements. Strategic Objective Strategic Outcome Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term (0-5 years) activities (5-15 years)

1 Develop climate Sustainable and i) Strengthen i) Review existing Guidelines Climate-resilient smart cities and climate resilient institutional and on Planning and infrastructure human human settlements policy Development in Urban and development settlements. environment to Rural areas of Bhutan to enable climate minimize environmental Carry out resilient impacts geotechnical planning and requirements in implementation ii) Prepare climate resilient critical areas to infrastructure master plans. assess any changes in the soil structure. ii) Review Samdrup Jongkhar Urban Development Plan to 68 Strategic Objective Strategic Outcome Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term (0-5 years) activities (5-15 years) incorporate climate resilient Carry out periodic components: to implement reviews. the Pilot Project for Climate Resilience (PPCR) activities Carry out frequent iii) Carry out geotechnical supervision, investigations to facilitate upgradation if preparation of land use required including plans adopting enhanced technologies. iv) Incorporate “build back better” including integration of mitigation priorities, health risk considerations and improving accessibility vi) Ensure operation and maintenance of infrastructure ii) Leverage i) Assess green Integration and “green infrastructure for implementation of infrastructure” ecosystem-based adaptation nature-based for ecosystem- options for urban areas such solutions in urban based as green spaces and buffer management adaptation in zones in line with LEDS for urban areas. Human Settlements. Carry out periodic ii) Prepare Transportation monitoring master plan for Thimphu iii) Strengthen implementation of no-build zones on riverbanks, green zones and other water channels with strict rules and regulations through enforcement of existing legislation (EA, Water and FNCA) iii) Combat risk i) Implement green of Urban heat infrastructure plan as part of island implementation of Thimphu structure plan. ii) Establish green spaces; micro parks, avenue plantation, green building components in urban/town areas. iii) Promote green and resilient building designs in line with LEDS for Human Settlements to reduce urban heat island effect. Build Comprehensive Strengthen Develop Geodatabase for Update the 2 comprehensive Geodatabase for database for housing, infrastructure, database database for urban housing, housing, utilities, recreational areas, areas infrastructure infrastructure and green spaces 69 Strategic Objective Strategic Outcome Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term (0-5 years) activities (5-15 years) including utilities, and utilities, recreational areas recreational and green spaces areas, and developed. green spaces

3 Enhance logistics Enhanced logistics Enhance i) Develop Geocoded/Street Update the System preparedness for preparedness for logistics Addressing for the disaster disaster preparedness Thromdes Carry out management and management for disaster implementation of improved service including postal management ii) Review Disaster the action plan delivery services and improved Management and service delivery Contingency Plan for the construction and human settlement sectors

4 Climate proof Safe, liveable, and Provide climate Review and develop flood Implementation of critical resilient resilient and storm water the climate resilient infrastructures and infrastructure in infrastructure in management plans and Low infrastructures, settlements critical areas critical areas for Impact Development Plans recommended in against floods and disaster risk for urban areas. the flood and landslides reduction. stormwater Review design of Flood management plans. protection management protective structures like Monitoring and dams, drainage systems, and Evaluation of barriers in flood-prone areas climate resilient including in infrastructures for industrial/economic zones. disaster management Strengthen Enhance/improve disaster windstorm preparedness through management infrastructure, capacity through building, awareness and capacity trainings based on building Guidelines for Windstorm and awareness. Resilient Roofing System

5 Construct climate Climate proof Reduce risk of Construction of climate Introduction and resilient road transport landslides from resilient road infrastructure implementation of infrastructure infrastructure increased flood/landslide precipitation in Identification and mapping resilient critical zones of perennial slope (including infrastructures debris flow site) Explore potential for tunnelling to Assess landslide risk and bypass landslide develop landslide prone areas management plans. Terracing or slope stabilization of landslide prone areas. Slope stabilization along national and Dzongkhag highways. 70 3.1.5 HEALTH Climate impacts on human health are starting to manifest in terms of increasing risks of vector- and water-borne diseases, and direct impacts on lives from climate induced disasters. Other emerging threats that have come to the fore in the light of the COVID-19 pandemic include risk of zoonosis events because of changing wildlife habitats and increasing intersection between wildlife, livestock, and human settlements. In addition to implementing measures to address the various emerging risks on human health from climate change, the adaptation needs in the health sector include enhancing capacity and building resilience of the health infrastructure against climate risks and impacts so that such services can continue during extreme events. Measures for the health sector include, building resilience of critical public health infrastructure against extreme events and long-term climate risks. Enhancing health emergency preparedness to respond to climate induced disaster and enhancing surveillance and management of climate sensitive and vector borne diseases is needed. Further research and capacity building of the health sector is needed since the topic of climate risk integration is a fairly new topic among health professionals and practitioners in Bhutan. The health sector also depends on cross sectoral collaboration and coordination, since the determinants of health fall on other sectors and agencies, such as through Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) facilities, design of the living environment and disaster risk reduction and management. In the health sector, stakeholders have identified the participation of senior citizens and retired professionals as partners to fill in gaps in specialised capacity and provide support in outreach and advocacy to vulnerable groups. Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short Term activities Medium term activities Objectives Outcome (0-5yrs) (5-15yrs)

1 Build Improved Improve health Strengthen laboratory - resilience of resilience infrastructure and facilities and monitoring critical public of health equipment to adapt systems for climate sensitive health system to to climate change diseases. system and climate impacts infrastructure change against Improve access to Improve existing Water, Build new WASH extreme water supply and Sanitation and Hygiene Infrastructures with events and sanitation for health (WASH) Infrastructures with climate change resilient long-term facilities climate change resilient technology and inclusive climate risks technology and inclusive accessibility based on the accessibility based on the WASH FIT tool assessment WASH FIT tool assessment Strengthen the monitoring Sustain/improve mechanism for WASH monitoring of WASH improvements in HCFs facilities in HCF through close collaboration among Royal Center for Disease Control (RCDC), Infection prevention and control (IPC), Quality Assurance and Standardisation Division 71 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short Term activities Medium term activities Objectives Outcome (0-5yrs) (5-15yrs) (QASD) and Anti-Microbial Resistance (AMR) Strengthen waste Continue to improve on management system in waste management at all healthcare facilities and levels in health facilities Thromdes to control climate and Thromdes to control sensitive disease vectors climate sensitive disease vectors

2 Enhancing Improved Enhance Emergency Conduct risk assessment of Reduce impact of climate health capacity of Preparedness and health care facilities for change on health care emergency health Response Capacity climate change induced infrastructure. preparedness facilities to disasters & response handle to climate climate Capacity development on Continue Capacity induced change climate induced emergency development on climate disasters induced medical services induced emergency disasters medical services

3 Enhancing Reduced Enhance and Strengthen existing Develop a vector borne surveillance risk from integrate the existing surveillance system. diseases early warning and and climate early warning system prediction model management sensitive for climate sensitive of climate and vector diseases through a Develop monitoring sensitive and diseases surveillance system framework for prevention and vector borne (malaria, and prediction control of climate sensitive diseases dengue, model. diseases kala azar etc) on Establish Cross border collaboration for Review and sustain cross vulnerable International climate sensitive diseases border collaboration populations coordination and prevention and control particularly collaboration in (migrant screening, vector in warm border regions with surveillance in project areas, regions. high-risk cross- awareness) border climate sensitive diseases transmission Strengthen program Enhance capacity of health Develop HR capacity for capacity for workers for management and National centre on training management of surveillance of climate and research for climate climate sensitive and sensitive and vector borne sensitive diseases vector borne diseases diseases Establish a national center for Operational research on training and research on VBDs VBDs and zoonoses Strengthen Develop community capacity Review of community community for prevention of VBDs in participation to develop resilience to VBDs high-risk areas 72 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short Term activities Medium term activities Objectives Outcome (0-5yrs) (5-15yrs) sustainable community engagement plan Strengthen capacity Capacity development of pre- Certification of health of health centres for service and in-service health centre water quality and workers on water quality monitoring to monitoring as per international international standard standards.

4 Building The health To enhance capacity Enhance capacity for Continue capacity awareness sector is of health sector to diagnosis and management of development for diagnosis and capacity sensitised address risks and new/emerging climate and management of of the health and able to impacts of climate sensitive diseases) new/emerging climate sector on start change on health sensitive diseases) climate integrating change climate Training of health workers on Continue same training adaptation change climate change adaptation adaptation using WHO training modules in overall health Create awareness to workers - programs and employers of the and plans potential accident and disease risks associated with climate variabilities Integrate and CC integrated into existing Review and update pre- organised climate curriculums. service and in-service change teaching and curriculums. learning curriculums Capacity to handle climate sensitive health issues Enhance parasitology & entomology pre-services training in the KGUMSB Initiate long term training such as Masters’ and Ph.D. programs for CC and related health issues Improve risk Strengthen disease outbreak Sustaining activities for the communication on investigation and response for readiness to combat rising trend of prioritized zoonoses issues. hazard and contain emerging and re- infectious diseases emerging infectious Conduct awareness (Emerging and re-emerging diseases on campaigns on risks of infectious diseases). zoonoses (eg. increased zoonoses events Influenza and COVID- from human wildlife interface 19) and livestock due to climate change.

5 Research on Generated Generate scientific Conduct climate change Develop climate Sensitive impacts of evidence evidence on health related emerging disease Diseases(CSD) early climate on health and climate change burden study in the country 73 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short Term activities Medium term activities Objectives Outcome (0-5yrs) (5-15yrs) change on impact of through targeted warning and prediction human climate research on the model health change for impacts of climate enhanced change on health Assess health system Build institutional capacity adaptation and health system in vulnerability and adaptation to adapt to climate change to climate Bhutan to climate change change Policy review on integration High level advocacy for of health in policies of health integration of health in the determining sectors policy of health determining sectors Assess risk of heat waves and Develop early warning heat stress across different systems for heat waves and population groups stress 3.1.6 ENERGY Almost 100% of electricity generation in Bhutan is from Hydropower and is another factor enabling Bhutan to remaining a carbon neutral country. Hydropower development has been a major driver of economic growth and the sales and export of hydropower is a significant source of national revenue. While generation of hydroelectricity is significantly lower in winter, climate change is expected to worsen the situation with projections of drier winters. Increasing intensity of monsoons, increased sedimentation can also increase maintenance costs of hydropower plants, while the risk of GLOF threatens such large investments. Adaptation measures in energy sector is therefore a two-pronged strategy for climate proofing hydropower investments and diversifying energy sources beyond major hydropower project by developing and scaling up alternative renewable energy programs. These adaptation measures have mitigation co-benefits, but adaptation in the sector is equally important to ensure energy security. The priority measures for hydropower are based on the priorities identified in the technical assessment for water sector as part of the NAP readiness project, 2nd NDC, Third National Communication and the Sustainable Hydropower Development Policy. Strategic Objective Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term Outcome (0-5 years) activities (5-15 years)

1 Diversification of energy • Increased Pursue Alternative Assessment and Implementation from systems to reduce resilience of renewable energy development of green the recommendation vulnerability of hydropower energy system program (AREP) hydrogen roadmap of green hydrogen from climate change and energy consisting of solar, roadmap security and wind, green Undertake Alternative Implement rooftop reduced GHG hydrogen, and renewable energy projects: solar PV at consumer’s emissions waste-to-energy premises and technologies - Rooftop Solar PV in rural development of areas prosumer market. - Renewable Energy for Climate Resilience (Phase-I) 74 Strategic Objective Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term Outcome (0-5 years) activities (5-15 years) - Promoting Energy Security Renewable Energy for and Transition Project Climate Resilience (Phase-II) Decentralised RE Implement waste to Systems energy plant. Install Solar Water Heating System 2.Implement and Development of scale up of Energy Information energy efficiency System programs in the Implementation of Development of energy intensive Standards and Minimum Energy sectors Labelling scheme Performance Standards Development of energy (MEPs) efficiency codes of practice for Building Implementation of energy efficiency codes of practice for industries Certification of energy Certification of professional as energy Energy Efficiency auditors buildings Strengthening of Electrical testing laboratory Study on investment opportunities for energy efficiency projects • 3. Assess and Assess and Incorporate Undertake research incorporate climate resilient energy and development of climate resilient technologies and power emerging energy energy systems infrastructures. technologies. technologies and power system infrastructure

2 Increased resilience of • Resilient Review designs Undertake Feasibility Study Development of a hydropower infrastructure and increase of a Pumped Storage Pumped Storage infrastructures/technologies with limited capacity of scheme and DPR update of Power Plant (PSPP) and to climate change. exposure and hydropower reservoir type hydropower reservoir type reduced projects to project hydropower projects vulnerability. improve resilience Investment planning and i) Construction of financing for 404 MW Nyera Amari-I&II Nyera Amari-I&II Integrated HPP; Integrated Hydropower Project; ii) Feasibility study of ii) Construction of Begana Integrated Begana IMSHP Multipurpose Small Hydropower Projects (IMSHP) for power 75 Strategic Objective Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term Outcome (0-5 years) activities (5-15 years) generation & supply of drinking & irrigation water 3.1.7 CLIMATE SERVICES AND DISASTER RISK REDUCTION Priorities under climate services and disaster risk reduction is considered a cross cutting issue that affects all sectors. The challenging mountainous environment of Bhutan with tremendous variation in topography creates challenges for providing weather and climate forecast and early warning services. Greater enhancement of climate studies including hydrological studies, improvements in climate projections and better early warning systems is a critical need. Climate induced disasters will also affect all sectors of the economy, society and particularly the vulnerable groups. While floods, landslides and forest fires are familiar climate induced hazards in Bhutan that are increasing in intensity and frequency, the increasingly erratic nature of monsoon onset and retreat threatens farmers and food security. Therefore, the key stakeholders in leading these interventions range from NCHM, Department of Agriculture and Department of Local Governance and Disaster Management, in collaboration with all relevant stakeholders. The adaptation priorities for climate services and disaster risk reduction, focus on improving hydrological services for water resources management, strengthening of agro-met services and climate information system, and improvements for efficient flood forecasting and preparedness. Interventions to protect critical infrastructure and settlements also requires improved flood forecasting and preparedness and response systems, along with enhanced early warning, response, and recovery capacity. Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term Objective Outcome (0-5 years) activities (5-15 years)

1 Improve Adaptive Real-time Comprehensive water State-of-art River hydrological capacity monitoring and resource assessment, with monitoring and services for water enhanced forecasting of the geo-tagging and monitoring forecasting with resources through robust flows. plan. decision support management. water resources systems. planning. Climate smart Expand and improve hydro- water management meteorological stations to system. include tributaries. Efficient database and information dissemination system on hydrometeorology. Enhance seasonal and annual weather forecasts to generate hydrological flow forecasts. Enhance hydrological Modelling and simulation for water resource forecasting 76 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term Objective Outcome (0-5 years) activities (5-15 years)

2 Strengthen agro- Enhanced Provide climate Operationalise the generation Improve accuracy met services and adaptive related agro of agromet advisory services. climate capacity of advisories services. information farmers Establish end-to-end channels system. of dissemination of weather and climate advisories (media, SMS, community network etc.) Develop a grassroots advocacy program on early warning preparedness for farmers and communities on extreme events and seasonal risks Innovation/ Research on changes in crop Continue research research on agro- phenology met using real time climate data. Crop suitability studies

3 Protect critical Safe, liveable, Improved/efficient Modelling and forecasting of Enhance flood infrastructures and resilient flood forecasting, extreme weather events and forecasting, and and settlements. infrastructure preparedness, and dissemination of information hazard and risk in critical areas response system. to the LGs and other sectors mapping. for installation of additional early flood/landslide warning systems at critical protection areas Map and target flood prone areas with specific, action- oriented communication before, during and after the flood events.

4 Enhanced early Reduced Monitoring of Expand and improve existing Glaciers and snow warning, and vulnerability to PDGL, glaciers, early warning systems for (hydrological) response & disasters. snow. GLOFs and other hazards modelling and recovery forecasting. capacity Strengthen assessment studies to monitor snow and glaciers. Comprehensive Review and update DM and Implement Disaster CP. programs and Management & activities under the Contingency Plans DM and CP (DM & CP) produced and implemented 77 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term Objective Outcome (0-5 years) activities (5-15 years) Preparedness for Ensure relief funds (and other Assessing the disaster response. mechanisms e.g., insurance) community for fast repair and recovery of preparedness properties and infrastructures towards flood and and to compensate for water related damages are in place. disasters. Enhance awareness Conduct flood simulation of communities on exercises to improve the water related preparedness level of the hazards (GLOF, community (Enabling action) Floods) Conduct awareness program on water related hazards at the community level (Enabling action) Incorporate build back better (replacement with climate resilient infrastructures) Ensure operation and maintenance of infrastructure (aimed at fast recovery). Flood forecasting Ensure timely and effective Ensure timely and and monitoring early warnings issued to the effective early improved. downstream communities. warnings issued to the downstream Build preparedness Develop Contingency plans communities. through adoption and install Early Warning of early warning Systems with real time systems, forecast monitoring. models, and data management. 78 3.2 ENABLING ACTIVITIES A conducive and supportive enabling environment for adaptation planning and implementation is required to due to the long-term frame of climate change and its impacts spanning several decades. Enabling actions are required to support (i) the implementation of the priority adaptation actions and (ii) the NAP process that is progressive, continuous, and iterative. The first NAP was developed as part of a readiness support from the GCF, which included support for enhancing existing institutional and technical elements for the NAP process in Bhutan. As the NAP process is a continuous and long-term process, support for enabling activities will need to be continued in the long term in a variety of ways ranging from domestic policy and institutional support to international financial and technical support. The enabling actions are organised in five clusters and build on existing measures and recent climate initiatives including the NAP readiness support. These measures are intended to enhance the enabling environment as part of “laying the groundwork” for supporting the NAP process in Bhutan. 3.2.1 POLICY AND INSTITUTIONAL To ensure NAP process for the long term, some of the key enabling activities are strengthening the policy and institutional environment. Key priorities included enhancing institutional capacity to facilitate the integration of adaptation planning and implementation at all levels from national to local government institutions (vertical integration). A review of all relevant policies and legislation is also identified to ensure coherent climate action. Enhancing and building on ongoing efforts to ensure collaboration and coordination of adaptation among they many stakeholders across sectors and different levels is also a priority to minimise overlaps, duplications, and avoidance of maladaptation (horizontal integration). Civil society and the private sector are identified as partners for adaptation and the enhancement of their engagement and capacity is a priority to support the NAP process. Strategic Objective Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities (1-5 Medium term Outcome yrs) activities (5-15 yrs)

1 Enhance Adaptive Facilitate Develop TOR and mandates Regular institutional capacity capacity establishment of CC and identify climate change functioning and to address national enhanced units at all relevant units in line with CC policy support for E/CC adaptation needs through agencies (core group and NEPA 2007 units. mainstreaming led by a coordinator of adaptation within each relevant agency) Institute CC units in (* Recommendation national agencies from (i) NAP Stock Taking Plan and NAP consultations) & (ii) Consultations for CBIT project) 79 Strategic Objective Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities (1-5 Medium term Outcome yrs) activities (5-15 yrs) Enhance Develop TOR and mandates Regular Environment Units at for climate change units in functioning and Dzongkhag level to line with CC policy and support for E/CC take on climate NEPA 2007 and LG Act, and units. change issues of Gender, Environment, Climate, Disaster, Poverty (GECDP)

2 Strengthen national Enhanced Review and revise Review all relevant policies Revise and policies and implementation policies and and legislation for update policies legislation to and legislation for gaps integration of climate and legislation as enhance climate enforcement of and opportunities in change action in line with appropriate to change action climate change effective integration CC Policy for effective enhance resilience and implementation integration and integration of actions of climate action. implementation of NAPs, climate change NDCs and other sectoral action including strategies adaptation.

3 Enhance Coherent and Enhance capacity of Strengthen the Secretariat Continuous coordination of coordinated key institutions and (CCD/NECS) in supporting briefing and climate change national drivers for the NCCC (HR, training, training on adaptation adaptation coordination of resources) continuous basis planning and climate change for changing implementation action in Bhutan Regular briefings to NCCC membership on CC Adaptation and NAP process as necessary. Annual review on NAP process by NCCC (based on C4 reports) Capacity building of Climate Continuous change Coordination awareness, Committee (C4) for its briefing and mandate on adaptation training on (Capacity building of continuous basis members of C4) for changing membership. Review progress in NAP process covered in Review progress meetings of the NCCC in NAP process covered in meetings of the NCCC Enhance One Health Continued Initiative of MoH to include engagement other sectors for climate change priorities in NAP 80 Strategic Objective Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities (1-5 Medium term Outcome yrs) activities (5-15 yrs) Ensure continued Continuous enhancement Review and support and and maintenance of Bhutan enhancements as improvement in Climate Platform to support needed. knowledge NAP process management and Refresher training collaboration for NAP Trainings for new and updates for process through the collaborators and refresher collaborators of Bhutan Climate for focal persons BCP Platform (BCP).

4 Ensuring active and Holistic and Regular engagement Annual dialogue on climate Continuous M&E meaningful and inclusive with CSOs and the change adaptation between awareness. inclusive adaptation private sector on policy makers, academia, engagement & planning and NAP process and private sector, and civil collaboration of implementation adaptation society Review & update CSOs and private in Bhutan implementation Engagement of CSOs and stakeholder sector in private sector in NAP engagement plan implementation of implementation as per in NAP process. the NAP respective roles identified in adaptation priorities and implementation strategy. Review and adapt Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP)9 including broader participation from academia, civil society, and private sector 3.2.2 M&E OF NAP PROCESS As discussed in Chapter 5 on M&E a robust M&E system is identified as a key requirement to ensure that adaptation plans and priorities are implemented at all levels and by all key stakeholders and that intended objectives are being met. The M&E system for the NAP process in Bhutan covers three levels of processes (i) monitoring progress in the implementation of this NAP document (ii) establishing a national system to measurements of resilience and vulnerability at a higher level (iii) developing and building a national M&E system that not only supports national requirements in line with the Climate Change policy, but also supports international reporting requirements under the Enhanced Transparency Framework of the Paris Agreement. 9 Stakeholder Engagement Plan for NAP, NAP Readiness Project, NEC/UNDP, 1 April 2020 81 All the proposed M&E systems are intended to build on any existing national M&E and reporting systems and other sector level M&E frameworks such as the Bhutan Water Security Index. The M&E process also includes the processes for taking stock of the iterative NAP cycle and processes for preparation of the 2nd NAP for Bhutan. Strategic Objective Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities (1-5 yrs) Medium term Outcome activities (5-15 yrs)

1 Establish and Bhutan’s Track and monitor Prepare annual progress NAP Process integrate a resilience to the progress in report on implementation of reviewed and monitoring and climate change implementation of the NAP enhanced evaluation system enhanced the first NAP (this including for adaptation in through an document) Capture best practices and preparation and line with CC policy effective and lessons learned (BOPLL) in implementation efficient NAP implementation of the NAP of subsequent process NAPs in an Prepare 2nd NAP in an iterative manner. iterative manner Establish a national Review and enhance the National system monitoring system approach in “Climate Change to monitor to assess progress vulnerability analyses and progress in in adaptation mapping for NAP formulation adaptation including process in Bhutan” for implementation measurements of measuring vulnerability & & tracking of resilience and adaptive capacity at a national adaptive capacity vulnerability to level and across sub-national and resilience climate change in levels of dzongkhags and made line with the CC gewogs. operational. policy 2020 Develop a tool for assessing adaptive capacity and vulnerability to climate change to assist planners and practitioners for planning and implementation of adaptation projects and programs. Develop and implement training on M&E for adaptation Develop and Establish a national Implement and implement a NAP monitoring and tracking iteratively M&E system, that is system to report on “support improve M&E responsive to received” for climate change system. reporting actions (mitigation and requirements of the adaptation) for the Biennial CC policy and the Transparency Reports (BTR) Enhanced by assessing and building on Transparency existing national monitoring Framework under systems. UNFCCC & Paris Agreement Assess and prepare a report on the Progress, Effectiveness 82 Strategic Objective Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities (1-5 yrs) Medium term Outcome activities (5-15 yrs) and Gaps (PEG)10 on NAP process by year 3 of NAP implementation program. Develop sector level Set up an M&E framework for Implement the M&E frameworks the water sector along the M&E framework for critical sectors lines of the Bhutan Water along with BWSI. Security Index (BWSI). 3.2.3 RESEARCH AND DATA Informed decision making and planning for adaptation with the best available science has been strongly recommended for the NAP process in the UNFCCC’s NAP guidelines and through the consultations. In this regard, the research and data will be developed by implementing the “Roadmap and Strategy for Strengthening Climate Change Research in Bhutan, 2020”. The priorities cover three main areas of interventions (i) Conducting specific needs-based research for the different sectors and stakeholders. (ii) dissemination of the results and information through the Bhutan Climate Platform and through education and outreach programs (ii) strengthening research for climate change adaptation in Bhutan through institutional strengthening and enhancing the Bhutan Science Foundation. This climate research roadmap is led by the Royal University of Bhutan through its associated institutions and other collaborating agencies. Also see Annex 4 for further details on the prioritised research topics identified as need-based research for climate change adaptation through “Strategic Imperative I: Tackle issues which matter” under the “Roadmap and Strategy for Strengthening Climate Change Research in Bhutan, 2020”. Strategic Objective Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities (1-5 yrs) Medium term Outcome activities (5-15 yrs)

1 Enhance climate Adaptation Conduct policy- Assess the risks and impacts of Review Climate change action planning and relevant and need- climate change on food Research through informed implementation based research for production systems. Roadmap and planning and in Bhutan is climate change prioritise next set implementation by enhanced by adaptation through Conduct targeted research for of research to implementing the the best “Strategic forest fire risk management. inform NAP Roadmap and available Imperative I: Tackle process Conduct research and Strategy for science in a issues which document changes in Strengthening coherent and matter” biodiversity including on species Climate Change sustainable and habitats, and other drivers manner of degradation and loss. 10 The PEG Tool of LDC Expert Group of the UNFCCC is designed to assess effectiveness of NAP process by reviewing ten essential functions of the NAP process. 83 Strategic Objective Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities (1-5 yrs) Medium term Outcome activities (5-15 yrs) Research in Research on climate induced Bhutan (2020) issues such as HWC and drivers of forest and biodiversity loss Research and document type of pests and diseases affecting wildlife and plants. Conduct studies water including on trends and impacts, management, technologies, and water related disasters. Research and assessments to support diversification of energy sources considering vulnerability of hydropower. Research on economic impacts of climate change, critical infrastructure & human settlements, private sector Assessment on ecosystem/nature-based approaches for adaptation Assess opportunities for cross cutting issues and gender integration. Research and economic assessments to support diversification and resilience of private sector Disseminate and Integrate a “Climate Research, increase awareness Information, and Service Portal” of climate change (CRISP) (Strategic Imperative III) research to inform into the Bhutan Climate Portal adaptation (BCP) planning in Bhutan and further Mainstream and strengthen through strategic pedagogy, outreach, and imperatives III and capacity building (Strategic IV of the Roadmap Imperative IV) (Linked to Enabling activity E) Strengthen and Strengthen institutions and Update the build sustainability networks, inspire leaders, and Climate Research of climate change empower researchers (Strategic Roadmap research to support Imperative II) the NAP process 84 Strategic Objective Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities (1-5 yrs) Medium term Outcome activities (5-15 yrs) for through Establish the “Bhutan Science strategic Foundation” (Strategic imperatives II & V Imperative V) and update of the roadmap. 3.2.4 CAPACITY BUILDING Continuing capacity building is required to ensure that new actors can be effective adaptation planners and implementers, while skills and capacity will need to be upgraded for others with continually emerging new findings, methodologies, and techniques for adaptation practice. While some level of targeted capacity building has been included in the sectoral and thematic adaptation priorities, overall capacity building for the NAP process is based on the “Skills Assessment for the NAP Process in Bhutan (SANP) 2020”. To fill the gaps and needs identified in the SANP, the priorities include (i) integration of climate change adaptation learning into the national education and training systems (ii) developing an institutional memory for climate change adaptation by building cohorts of training of trainers and modules in relevant institutions. (ii) promoting the awareness and utilization of indigenous/ traditional knowledge systems and (iv) ensuring sustainability with a financial strategy to sustain climate change skills development. Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities (1-5 yrs) Medium term Objective Outcome activities (5-15 yrs) Address capacity Effective and Capacity Building Development of climate change Update the Skill gaps and needs locally led on adaptation learning module and curriculum Assessment and for the NAP adaptation learning program capacity Needs process as per planning and into the national Vocational Education Curriculum the “Skills implementation education and Development for Climate Assessment for by key training systems Mitigation and Adaptation the NAP Process stakeholders (Strategy 1 of Creating awareness for students in Bhutan and sectors SANP) and their parents to understand (SANP)” climate change adaptation as a career option Develop Training of Trainer (TOT) institutional programs and development of memory for training modules at RUB and RIM climate change adaptation (Strategy 2 of SANP) Promote Strengthen linkages with integration of government, academia, and awareness and extension capacity of NGOs and utilization of CSOs operating in natural 85 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities (1-5 yrs) Medium term Objective Outcome activities (5-15 yrs) indigenous/ resource management/agriculture traditional space. knowledge systems (Strategy 3 of Develop and implement a public SANP) sensitization program on IKS across the community level. Develop a repository of all traditional and Indigenous knowledge systems. Mainstream IKS in development projects. Develop financial Develop financing strategy for mechanisms to capacity building. sustain climate change skills Mainstream climate change development capacity development in sectoral (Strategy 4 of and local budgets SANP) 3.2.5 EDUCATION AND AWARENESS As elaborated in the chapter 4 (Implementation Strategies), education and awareness for key stakeholders along with awareness about climate change and adaptation among the public is critical to ensure buy- in and support for the NAP process. The strategy for this priority includes (i) integration of climate change adaptation into education curriculum (ii) enhancing the skills pool for climate change adaptation planning and research through targeted scholarships (iv) conducting advocacy campaigns on climate change adaptation, preparedness, and early warning as part of the communication strategy. Key partners in education and awareness include CSOs, the media and media production houses from the private sector. Strategic Objective Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities (1-5 yrs) Medium term Outcome activities (5-15 yrs) Enhance education Awareness and Integrate climate Review and integrate climate Review and and awareness on understanding change adaptation change and adaptation into update climate change of climate into education education curriculum in a comprehensive and holistic adaptation change risks curriculum manner at appropriate and adaptation levels11 among the a. Update information on wider CC for already integrated curriculum (higher levels) 11 See the report “The Heat is on! Towards a Climate Resilient Education System in Bhutan”, UNICEF, 2022 86 Strategic Objective Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities (1-5 yrs) Medium term Outcome activities (5-15 yrs) population for b. Refreshers and training more effective for teachers collaboration c. Fill gaps in lower level by activity or other modes and individual (clubs, activities, scouts, actions. exploratory) Enhance the skills Provide scholarships for pool for climate specialised trainings for key change adaptation course based on Skills planning and Assessment Plan research through targeted scholarships Conduct advocacy Targeted training advocacy Review and campaigns on for (policy makers, planners, refresher climate change and practitioners) on CC courses adaptation, adaptation planning and preparedness, and implementation and early warning as part integration through climate of the training programs and communication training of trainer programs strategy for NAP in Chapter 4. AV products for broadcast, Review and print and online/social media update developed and delivered. Develop and conduct Review and grassroots advocacy program update on climate risks and adaptation, particularly for vulnerable communities and groups 87 4. IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGY The implementation of the NAP is guided by the Climate Change Policy which recognises that climate change is a cross cutting issue that affects all sectors and stakeholders. This approach is in line with the principles for environmental stewardship and the middle path approach to development in the Constitution and various environmental legislation as discussed in Chapter 1 on policy alignment. The Climate Change Policy calls for integration, synergies and an inclusive approach for implementation and all sectors and stakeholders at all levels in Bhutan to undertake appropriate action on climate change. In implementing the NAP, both adaptation priorities across key sectors and enabling actions will be implemented. The priorities with concrete adaptation programs and activities are mentioned in Chapter 3 and the soft components (enabling activities) to support the NAP process to ensure that adaptation in the long run is sustained and responsive to the changing risks and needs in the medium to long run. On an operational level, government agencies will have to first integrate climate change actions identified in the NAP and NDC into national plans and programs in line with national procedures for planning and budgeting before any steps towards financing can be taken. In this regard, this chapter identifies the possible entry points to integrate the adaptation priorities into national and local development plans. Several approaches to integrate the numerous adaptation priorities in a holistic and programmatic approach are also identified as possible options for future five-year development plans or other thematic and sectoral development plans. While subsequent financing of the plans follows integration into national plans, potential sources for climate financing from multilateral and bilateral channels have been presented in addition to innovative national mechanisms. For the NAP to be successfully implemented, concerted communication and outreach effort is essential to build awareness and support for integration of adaptation into national plans that will contain other economic and development priorities The roles of key agencies and stakeholders in leading, facilitating, implementing, and financing of the NAP are also presented in this Chapter. 4.1 INTEGRATION OF NAP INTO DEVELOPMENT PLANNING In line with the Climate Change Policy, the primary mode of implementation of the NAP will be through the integration of adaptation priorities into national and local development plans. The lead responsibility for integration of NAPs and NDCS is on the NEC, MoF, and the OCASC. The private sector and civil society will be engaged as partners for implementing climate change priorities based on needs and comparative advantages. In integrating the adaptation priorities into national and local development plans, several key points need to be considered: i) the appropriate entry points for integration need to be identified. ii) the implementation of the NAP should be inclusive from national to local levels including the most vulnerable communities, civil society, and the private sector. iii) Maladaptation should be avoided by considering all available information in planning and implementation of activities. 88 4.1.1 ENTRY POINTS FOR INTEGRATION OF ADAPTATION INTO DEVELOPMENT PLANS Five Year Development Plans The primary entry point for the NAP into development planning will be through the five-year development plans (FYP). The 12th FYP (2018-2023) with the theme of “Just, Harmonious and Sustainable Society through enhanced Decentralization” had integrated climate change as one of the sixteen National Key Result Areas (NRKA) and facilitated the implementation of climate change adaptation and mitigation in line with some of the priorities in the NAPA, 1st NDC and Low Emission Development Strategies. The 13th FYP is for the period 2024-2029 has the main objective of “A Dynamic, Prosperous, Inclusive and Sustainable Economy in Pursuit of GNH” and it is expected that cross cutting themes of environment, climate change, disaster, gender, disability, elderly citizens, and poverty will be mainstreamed in the policies and plan for integrated implementation, holistic and sustainable developmental outcomes. The decentralization efforts in recent years will also continue with the capacity building of local governments in development planning and management and in “locally led climate change adaptation”. The 13th FYP is also expected to have components that cover both projects implemented within a 5-year period and long-term projects for key infrastructure, economic centers and energy programs that can span more than five years12. This new approach will allow for easier integration of long-term adaptation planning and implementation. National Economic Development Plans Other key entry points include strategic national documents such as the “21st Century Economic Roadmap” and other high-level exercises such as the “Transformation Initiatives” and plans and programs for economic recovery after the COVID-19 Pandemic and National Disaster Risk Management strategies (see Box 4). These plans for economic recovery and development will need to integrate strategies for resilience not just to threats from biological pandemics, economic shocks, but also climate risks and vulnerabilities. The strategic priorities for adaptation in the NAP will need to be integrated to make the economic plans climate resilient to the expected adverse impacts in the coming decades. Sectoral Policies and Strategies. Several sectoral policies and strategies have direct relevance for climate action with several already integrating climate change adaptation and climate resilience such as the Sectoral Adaptation Program of Action 2016 (Agriculture) and National Forest Policy 2011, National Disaster Risk Management Strategy 2017, National Human Settlement Policy 2019, National Construction Industry Policy 2020, National Housing Policy 2020, National Sanitation and Hygiene Policy 2020, Sustainable Hydropower Development Policy 2021, Renewable Natural Resources Strategy 2030 (draft 2022), National Health Policy. 12 Draft Concept Note for the 13th Five Year Plan (FYP 2024-29), GNHC 2022 89 Bhutan’s Long-Term Low Greenhouse Gas Emission and Climate Resilient Development “Bhutan’s Long-Term Low Greenhouse Gas Emission and Climate Resilient Development Strategy” (LTS) is currently being drafted in response to Article 4, paragraph 19 of the Paris Agreement for Parties to develop strategies towards achieving goals of the Agreement by 2050. The LTS is being drafted with the objectives of guiding Bhutan’s objective of remaining carbon neutral through a low emission and climate resilient development pathway. It will recommend low emission strategies in industry, food security, human settlements, surface transport, waste management, energy security and protection of carbon sinks. The LTS also aims to build resilience to climate change impacts and risks by mainstreaming adaptation in development plans. A key feature of the LTS is to integrate economic development and climate change by developing and implementing an effective climate action plan with the object of decoupling GHG emission from economic growth and building climate resilience while ensuring socially fair transition, cost- effectiveness, creation of green jobs, diversification of economy and enhancing of gross national happiness remains the main driving forces. In this respect, the LTS will serve as an overarching guide for subsequent NDCs and NAPs. Regional plans development in for rural and urban areas Other key entry points include major infrastructure and urban development strategies in Bhutan through the implementation of the Comprehensive National Development Plan (CNDP) 2030. The recently established Royal Commission for Urban Development (RCUD) has initiated the preparation of a Regional Strategy and Framework for the National Capital Region, comprising the major areas from the dzongkhags (districts) of Thimphu, Paro and Punakha/Wangdue and the revision of the Thimphu Structure Plan. The objectives of this strategic assessment and planning already include the reduction of vulnerabilities to the impacts of climate change and has the potential to bring about transformative changes. Bhutan has one of the highest rates of urbanisation in Asia, and Thimphu is the largest city in Bhutan. Thimphu and the surrounding regions of Paro and Punakha/Wangdue is expected to become a major urban region as the national capital region and the integration of climate change for ensuring climate resilient and low emission development. Similarly, the implementation of the Comprehensive National Development Plan (CNDP) 2030 by the MoIT will focus on the South-Central Regional Plan along the Sarpang-Gelephu corridor. National Standards and Guidelines An often overlooked but critical entry points for many sustainability and environmental actions are the national standards and guidelines that define infrastructure development practices and fiscal incentives and tax codes that affect economic behaviour. While many strategies, plans and policies are drafted, these standards and codes determine whether intended changes and interventions are realised in practice. Some of the key standards and guidelines of relevance in Bhutan are: • Fiscal incentives such as the Fiscal Incentives Act of 2017 and 2021 and the respective rules provide incentives to stimulate economic growth and through the level of import duty and sales taxes affect decisions of private investments in priority areas, technologies, and practices. • Bhutan Schedule of Rates (BSR) defines the projecting costs for construction projects and listing of materials and practices defines de-facto practices in civil engineering projects. 90 • Environmental and Social (E&S) Risk Management guidelines in financial services will enable financial service providers to assess their environment and social risk exposure in lending and decision making under increasing risks of climate change impacts. The Royal Monetary Authority intends to introduce such guidelines as part of Druk Ngudrel Lamtoen 203013. • Procurement Rules and Regulations determines government purchasing of services and goods. As the government is still the major economic actor in Bhutan and major client for purchases and infrastructure investments in Bhutan, sustainable consumption and production practices including climate resilient services can be determined by the Procurement Rules and Regulations and the Standard Bidding Documents. Box 4: National transformative initiatives and implications for low emission and climate resilient development Redefining national economic development approaches. In the past decades, national strategies such as “The Middle Path: National Environment Strategy (1998) and the Bhutan 2020: A Vision for Peace, Prosperity and Happiness (1999) played a pivotal role in defining the approach to sustainable development in Bhutan. Now as Bhutan is poised to graduate from LDC status, a couple of initiatives have been launched to define the socio-economic development pathway for the country facing new economic, environmental, and social challenges. High level macro-economic plans and strategies such as the “21st Century Economic Roadmap” and “Transformation Initiatives” are under development to chart a vision to transform economic development in Bhutan for the coming decades. The 21st Century Roadmap has the objective to “chart out a clear economic roadmap for the 21st century–this will help every Bhutanese and entity to understand their respective roles and work towards a common national objective”. The Transformation Initiatives is reported to be an investment program worth Nu. 45 billion and includes a “set of programmes designed to lay a strong foundation to bring about economic transformation and are expected to maintain the macroeconomic stability of Bhutan as a developed country”. Since long-term economic investments will lock in major financial and infrastructure investments, they are also opportunities for a 21st century economy that build on the challenges and opportunities of climate change. Low emission development technologies and economic activities can contribute to the carbon neutral goals for Bhutan and ensure that economic and development investments are responsive and resilient to the current and future risks of adverse impacts of climate change. The two national economic strategies will result in economic and fiscal policies that can lock in major investments that can facilitate low emission climate resilient development. Conversely if climate change action is not integrated in these strategies, resulting investments may lock in investments that are not aligned to carbon neutral goals, or also more worryingly, result in investments that lead to maladaptation and threaten local populations in the future. Similarly, “Bhutan’s Long-Term Low Greenhouse Gas Emission and Climate Resilient Development Strategy” (LTS) is being concurrently being drafted to guide a long-term approach to climate action in Bhutan until 2050. It is critical that the LTS, NDCs and NAP are integrated into the new economic transformation exercise and strategies. However, as of date, it is not known in what direction the 21st Century Economic Roadmap and the Transformative Initiatives are proceeding since drafts of the two strategies were not available for reference or review during the drafting and consultation process for the NAP. 13 Druk Ngudrel Lamtoen-2030: A Roadmap for a Progressive, Agile, and Resilient Central Bank Enabling Bhutan’s Economic Transformation, Royal Monetary Authority of Bhutan, August 2021 91 Source: https://economicroadmap.gnhc.gov.bt/ https://kuenselonline.com/nu-45b-worth-of-transformation-initiatives-begin/ 4.1.2 ENSURING AN INCLUSIVE NAP IMPLEMENTATION The adaptation priorities and programs are based on the climate risk assessment across all sectors and regions as described in chapter 2 and 3. In implementing the NAP it will be important to ensure that all vulnerable regions and communities are included. Implementation of adaptation priorities need to expand beyond programs and projects implemented by national and sectoral agencies to locally led programs and other non-government stakeholders. Local governments The early adaptation projects in Bhutan were largely infrastructure focused investments to reduce vulnerabilities from immediate threats such as glacial lake outburst floods (GLOF) or other climate induced disasters such as floods, landslides, and forest fires. Locally led adaptation programs were gradually introduced in the 2nd and 3rd NAPA projects. The thrust of the FYPs for locally led development plans will continue in the 13 th FYP and will also increase the locally led adaptation planning. Locally led adaptation planning has piloted and scaled up under the LoCAL program (Local Climate Adaptive Living Facility in Bhutan: Mainstreaming Climate Adaptation through Local Governance System) as result-based financing for adaptation through local governments to cover all 205 gewogs in Bhutan. This facility should be utilised as an entry point for climate adaptation planning for local governments. The results of the “Climate Change Vulnerability Analyses and Mapping for NAP Formulation Process in Bhutan” prepared as part of the NAP Readiness project can also inform the OCASC, MoF, local governments and partners in resource allocation based on ranking of regional and vulnerabilities at the dzongkhag and gewog levels. Vulnerable groups and communities In addition to local governments, many civil society organisations are also engaged in improving livelihoods and resilience of vulnerable communities and groups including persons with disabilities (PWDs), senior citizens and gender identities. Such organisations working at the grassroots level and vulnerable groups are well placed to act as partners and implementers based on their comparative advantages. During the consultations CSO groups identified how they can be partners in the NAP process: • Speak for the vulnerable groups and communities and ensure their inclusion in adaptation plans and priorities, and during implementation of these plans. This would provide a balance to the normally technical and economy focus outputs and priorities from government technical working groups. • Even vulnerable groups can support adaptation. Senior citizens can also be partners since many members of the Royal Society for Senior Citizens (RSSC) include highly qualified retired civil servants, specialists, and former leaders, with years of wisdom, experience, and knowledge. • CSOs can be effective partners for advocacy as they have close and direct access to target populations. 92 • CSOs can also be part of research and monitoring and evaluation as there are also CSOs, and MBOs engaged in these activities. Private sector While public expenditure has been the primary driver for economic growth, the government is increasingly recognising the role of the private sector in economic development. The initiatives for stimulating development of the private sector under the Economic Development Policies and incentives will continue. In the 13th FYP, the government aims to engage the private sector and CSOs in harnessing their potential and partnerships and identifying investment areas/resources of the private sector. In this regard, the private sector can also be partners in implementation of adaptation (see text box 5) and areas of potential collaboration has been identified in the adaptation priorities in chapter 3. Box 5: Engaging the private sector in adaptation. Private sector and sustainable development in Bhutan The public sector has long been the primary source of economic growth in Bhutan, but the government has over the recent years placed more significance on the role of the private sector. Economic diversification is a high priority, and the economic policies and fiscal incentives in recent years have provided measures in line with “Brand Bhutan” to stimulate economic growth, foster private sector development, and generate employment. Incentives were also provided to adopt modern environmentally friendly technologies, energy efficiency, renewable energy generation and for waste management and recycling. These incentives and measures for the private sector vis-à-vis climate action in Bhutan so far have largely been focused on promoting low emission development, but the private sector also has several roles in building resilience and reducing vulnerability. Active participation can lead to good results as was demonstrated during the preparation of the NAPA. The Association of Bhutanese Industries highlighted the threats from increasing floods and landslides in key economic investments such as the industrial estate in Pasakha and lead to interventions on a co-financing basis for remedial measures in critically identified locations. Role of private sector in Adaptation The private sector can participate in adaptation in several ways: Adapt to climate change: • Businesses, companies, and individual investors also must adapt to climate change. Private investments should be climate proofed against increasing risks and investors must make climate smart decisions to avoid maladaptation and exposing their investments to unnecessary risks. Finance adaptation: • The private sector could also be a source of financing and lending for adaptation. • Financial institutions can channel climate financing from GCF and other sources. • Social and environmental risk management, in line with the RMA’s green financing guidelines, such as insurance schemes and lending policies can ensure climate smart investments and prevent maladaptation in areas with high climate risks. • CSR initiatives from companies and businesses could support activities to build resilience in grassroot and vulnerable communities. Provide adaptation services: • Businesses can provide adaptation services and products on a commercial basis to other businesses. 93 • They can also implement the works under adaptation projects of national and local government agencies. Key messages from the consultations with the private sector 1) In preparing the NAP, representatives of the private sector were included in the consultations for the identification of priorities in a bottom-up manner and in the review of the various stages of the drafts. Some of the key inputs from the consultations are: 2) The private sector is keen to participate in adaptation to climate change, but requires the policy, institutional support, and incentives to do so. 3) Capacity building and awareness is also necessary for the private sector to understand the risks and opportunities from climate change. 4) Fiscal and non-fiscal measures are good ways for encouraging participation and investments by the private sector. 5) Concessional financing for investments in climate action by the private sector through national channels will be beneficial, given the lack of financing for green activities in the country. The RMA’s initiatives for Green Financing through the financial institutes can be game changing and transformative. 6) Clear standards, guidelines and certifications can provide incentives besides regulations. Self- monitoring and reporting through accredited agencies and associations can be an option besides traditional regulatory monitoring. 7) There is need for better coordination and information sharing on policies and plans among government agencies and with the private sector. Sometimes there are conflicting or incomplete regulatory processes that can stymie initiatives and investments for the private sector. 8) Private sector also sees more opportunities to provide goods and services in areas that were traditionally in the public service delivery. Some of the examples are in delivery of information, data and communication services for environmental and climate projects, along with development or distribution of new products and technologies. 4.1.3 AVOIDING MALADAPTATION Maladaptation is defined by the IPCC as “actions, or inaction that may lead to increased risk of adverse climate-related outcomes, increased vulnerability to climate change, or diminished welfare, now or in the future”. Maladaptation results from poor planning or implementation of actions and often from actions that focus on sectors and risks in isolation and on short term gains without considering long term adaptation requirements. Maladaptation may have been ‘avoidable’ when available information is not used properly, or ‘unavoidable’ when decisions made with the best available information may turn out to be wrong. One of the goals of the CC policy is to ensure coordination and coherence in climate action in Bhutan and coordination of efforts. A lack of coordination and information sharing has been one of the key barriers highlighted in the NAP consultations. All relevant agencies must ensure coordination and sharing of information to avoid maladaptation and minimise wastage of limited public resources for development activities that may lead to greater future risks. This important issue is discussed further in text box 6. 94 Box 6: Avoiding maladaptation in Bhutan. Examples of maladaptation in Bhutan The most common climate hazards in Bhutan are flash floods and landslides, and glacial lake outburst floods (GLOF) are also high-risk high damage hazards. In this regard, several examples of maladaptation in Bhutan include (i) building settlements and roads in areas along riversides designated as red zones for flash floods and or GLOFs, or (ii) filling in river and stream buffers in urban settlements such as Thimphu while ignoring the fact that surface runoff is increasing with increasing intensity of rainfalls. Causes of maladaptation Poor coordination and lack of information or limited sharing of existing information is attributed to decisions and plans that are made without considering critical and relevant information to avoid maladaptation. Solutions To avoid maladaptation, several measures are required: Awareness outreach and advocacy to development planners and regulators at national, sectoral, and local levels is required. This outreach should be informed by an assessment of specific examples of maladaptation in Bhutan to both alert and educate stakeholders. Capacity building program and guidelines for project and program design and climate mainstreaming should include maladaptation as an important issue to be considered for planning and implementation of development activities. There is a need for active coordination for climate actions and in dissemination and sharing of relevant information from the research and technical assessments. Roles and responsibilities National agencies should take the lead with Department of Environment and Climate Change playing a facilitative role. Regulatory agencies including MoIT needs to incorporate consideration of climate risks in its guidelines and regulations for human settlements and infrastructure. Maladaptation and climate risks should be considered as part of development consent processes. Entities that generate relevant information such as NCHM, DGM and the research community should continue to generate relevant information with an emphasis on dissemination of results and findings to relevant audiences. Sensitisation of maladaptation and climate risk should be included in disaster risk sensitisation exercises of DoLGDM and in communication and outreach programs for the NAP. Key partners in avoiding maladaptation include local governments as they make decisions at local level on construction of infrastructure. In addition, financial service providers should consider climate risks in their lending decisions for development investments. 4.2 APPROACHES TO IMPLEMENTING THE ADAPTATION PRIORITIES The types of interventions under the adaptation priorities across the seven sectors (in chapter 3) ranged from direct interventions through technology transfer and infrastructure investments, to soft components such as market access, capacity building and management of information and data. To assist the implementation of the variety of adaptation priorities across the different sectors, consideration was given to possible approaches and opportunities for synergies and transformative actions. 95 4.2.1 ENABLING ACTIVITIES TO SUPPORT THE NAP PROCESS To ensure the implementation of the adaptation priorities and support a continuous, progressive, and iterative NAP process, the enabling activities need to be implemented on a continuous basis. The purpose of enabling activities to enhance national and local institutional capacity to plan and implement adaptation priorities by integrating them into development plans. Key elements in this regard include research to inform vulnerability assessments, design and preparation of adaptation priorities, implementation and monitoring and evaluation systems. The enabling activities in chapter 3 need to be implemented in conjunction with the implementation of the adaptation priorities. 4.2.2 POSSIBLE SYNERGIES AND THEMATIC APPROACHES However, there were two thematic approaches that emerged across the sectors and different actions and activities, in the form of ecosystem-based adaptation approaches (landscape, habitats, forests, ecosystems, watersheds) and human settlement services (rural and urban). The priorities for climate services and disaster risk reduction are considered as cross cutting issues. In considering a programmatic approach to implement the different priorities across the seven sectors, several different approaches could be taken. One of the simplest is to design a program along the lines of the seven different sectors. This may however miss out on ensuring synergies or transformative approaches in implementation. Several other approaches for an integrated approach to implement the adaptation priorities and needs is presented. Synergies There were quite a few possible synergies across the adaptation priorities and needs. There are synergies across adaptation and mitigation in forest management and energy security. Conservation and management of forests, watersheds, and habitats are critical for maintaining ecosystem services such as water and prevention of erosion and landslides and at the same time enhance mitigation through carbon sequestration. In terms of energy security, development of alternate renewable energy generation and promotion of energy savings and efficiency is required to adapt to the high vulnerability of hydropower and at the same time these adaptation measures also result in mitigation through avoidance of GHG emissions in energy production. The linkages and nexus between food, water, energy, and climate was also evident in the adaptation priorities across health, water and agriculture with many similar interventions being identified and prioritised across these sectors. Considering the COVID-19 pandemic, the concerns of zoonotic diseases were identified as a concern in forests and biodiversity sector and the agriculture and livestock sector because of changes in habitats from climate change and other threats to biodiversity. Thematic approaches There are several thematic approaches that could be followed to implement the adaptation priorities in an integrated manner. The following thematic approaches across the different sectors and emerged organically during the identification of adaptation priorities by the sectoral thematic working groups. Integrated climate resilient human settlements 96 One of the common themes that emerged is human settlements and the need to make the rapidly growing cities resilient to safeguard the lives and livelihoods of an increasingly urbanised population. The entry points for integration into urban and rural development as discussed in the previous section also provide an excellent opportunity to ensure transformative changes and adaptation to ensuring a climate resilient and low emission cities and human settlements. The priorities in the human settlement sector have synergies with interventions safeguarding human health as many of the determinants of health are in other sectors such as the design and management of human settlements, particularly in ensuring water sanitation and hygiene (WASH). The Low Emission Development Strategies (LEDS) for Human Settlements prepared to support the implementation of the NDCs can also be implemented together with the NAP in a holistic manner, especially through the Regional Strategy and Framework for the National Capital Region (NCR) being spearheaded by the RCUD and MoIT. Ecosystem-based adaptation Ecosystem based adaptation (EbA) is another common theme that arose across multiple sectors, particularly in water, forests -and biodiversity, sustainable landscape approaches to agriculture and livestock management, and management of green spaces for urban and rural settlements. An ecosystem-based approach to adaptation would secure the resource base and other ecosystem services for human wellbeing in addition to mitigation co-benefits and biodiversity conservation. Ecosystem based approaches could be taken across different geographical areas such as a river basin, watershed, protected areas, an ecological zone, or in and around major human settlements. Ecosystem based adaptation project is currently being implemented in by Thimphu Thromde and coordinated by the Department of Environment and Climate Change as part of a multi country project led by UNEP, “Building Climate Resilience of Urban Systems through Ecosystem-Based Adaptation (EbA) In the Asia-Pacific Region ‘Urban EbA Asia’. This project will be a start to strengthening capacity, demonstrating EbA to reduce vulnerability of the poor and vulnerable and increasing the knowledge base forEbA. This small initial project in Bhutan will need to be scaled up based on the results and lessons learned. Water The focus of the NAP project has been on water as the most common theme that cuts across all sectors was water issues. Water is a critical resource for human consumption, food production and industries. Water is also a common factor for determining health and hygiene and in form of natural disasters like floods, landslides, and droughts. Interventions for adaptation for water ranges from ecosystem-based adaptation to technology transfer, infrastructure development and enhancement of management practices to secure the supply of water, efficient usage, and waste-water management. Energy security In the case of Bhutan, energy security is tied to the vulnerability of the water sector as electricity is almost exclusively through hydropower generation. Adaptation measures not only involve climate proofing hydropower facilities, but also requires diversification of energy sources into alternative renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and production of green hydrogen. There are also high levels of synergy with mitigation in energy generation by avoiding GHG emissions by promoting other renewable energy and with biodiversity conservation through the protection of watersheds and critical catchment area for hydropower. 97 4.2.3 PRIORITISATION FOR IMPLEMENTATION The identification of adaptation priorities in Chapter 3 considered past implementation of adaptation programs and projects to avoid repetition and duplication. When the adaptation priorities are integrated into national plans and priorities the process will require some amount of prioritisation and review as part of the normal planning process. It is also possible that some of the adaptation priorities may be taken up as major stand-alone projects under the new development planning approach to be taken up after the 12th Five Year Plan. In this regard, the following guidelines is recommended for selection of adaptation priorities and programs: i. Sectoral programs and projects will be selected based on a review of past, ongoing and pipeline projects and will prioritise sectors and regions that have not received adaptation projects. ii. The selection of geographic areas can be informed by the results of the vulnerability mapping of dzongkhags and gewogs from the “Climate Change Vulnerability Analyses and Mapping for NAP Process in Bhutan”. 4.3 POTENTIAL FINANCING SOURCES Bhutan’s domestic financial resources are limited, and development assistance is still a major source of financing for the sustainable development programs and plans. The magnitude of financing required for climate change adaptation in the medium to long term may be more than the available resources. In addition, Bhutan’s eventual graduation from LDC status will also remove the special consideration and access to financing provided to LDCs. Therefore, a variety of financing sources needs to be considered and explored from international climate financing mechanisms, bilateral, domestic, and private sources, and innovative mechanisms. Several channels and sources of financing for adaptation are discussed below. It should be noted that access to these financing sources listed below requires that the adaptation priorities are integrated into national and sectoral plans prior to any approval for project development based on national procedures and norms (see section 4.1). Other donor requirements such as the Country Work Program (CWP) for the Green Climate Fund will also mean that the NAP will need to be included in an updated CWP. 4.3.1 FINANCIAL MECHANISMS OF THE UNFCCC The various funds under the financial mechanism of the UNFCCC and the Paris Agreement such as the Green Climate Fund, Global Environment Facility, Special Climate Change Fund, Least Developed Countries Fund and the Adaptation Fund were established to support the implementation of climate change actions in developing countries and will continue to be an important source for the implementation of the NAP. To facilitate access to these funding sources, national focal institutions accredited to these funds will need to enhance their capacity to channel financing to national and local stakeholders. Currently 98 Bhutan Trust Fund for Environmental Conservation (BTFEC) is accredited as a national Direct Access Entity (DAE) to the GCF, and as National Implementing Entity (NIE) to the Adaptation Fund. The Bank of Bhutan and Bhutan National Bank are also under process of accreditation to the GCF and will be important channels for the participation of the Bhutanese private sector in climate change adaptation and mitigation. 4.3.2 MULTILATERAL AND BILATERAL CHANNELS Multilateral development banks Multilateral development banks such as the Asian Development Bank, and the World Bank support economic development programs including climate change initiatives in Bhutan through loans and grants. Bhutan is also now eligible to access financing from the European Investment Bank. Accessing borrowings from multilateral development banks are channelled through the Ministry of Finance. Bilateral development partners Bhutan has bilateral ties with over fifty countries, and many are development partners. Many of these countries also have bilateral development cooperation agencies, which have climate change programs. 4.3.3 INNOVATIVE NATIONAL MECHANISMS National Domestic revenues are limited and with many competing demands for delivering basic sustainable development services, innovative and alternative sources of financing at national level are required to supplement international financing for climate adaptation. • The Bhutan Trust Fund for Environmental Conservation (BTFEC) was one of the pioneering innovative conservation financing funds set up in 1996. The BTFEC finances conservation and climate change projects in Bhutan from a 40-million-dollar endowment. It makes large grants up to Nu.15 million for three years and small grants of up to Nu. 400,000. • The Royal Monetary Authority of Bhutan (RMA) is pursuing green financing options as part of its 10-year strategic plan, “Druk Ngudrel Lamtoen-2030: A Roadmap for a Progressive, Agile, and Resilient Central Bank Enabling Bhutan’s Economic Transformation”. Under the 3rd pillar of this strategic plan, “Advancing Green Finance for Sustainable and Green Economy, RMA aims to (i) Create enabling regulatory environment to nurture financing in green economy and (ii) Develop capital market and innovative financial instruments to promote investment in green projects and businesses. Towards this the RMA will (i) establish a governance and coordination mechanism to promote green finance (ii) incorporate environmental and social risk management in financial service provider’s lending decisions (ii) create green taxonomy and (iv) promote green capital market. • The Bhutan Climate Fund (BCF) is being developed with the assistance of the World Bank to facilitate the monetisation of net negative emissions and carbon offsets from mitigation projects under the new carbon market mechanisms of Article 6 of the Paris Agreement. The BCF is intended to increase the viability of hydropower projects in Bhutan and support the implementation of Bhutan in meeting its NDC commitments, adaptation needs, and overall development objectives. 99 • Sustainable Development Fee (SDF). Effective from 23 September 2022 a revised tourism policy of Bhutan took effect with the opening of the country after the COVD-19 Pandemic. Along with several significant changes, and the SDF applicable to all inbound tourists (with few exceptions) was increased to US$200 per day (previously at $65). The increased SDF is intended to support national development priorities including sustainability and carbon footprint of the industry. Funds from the SDF could also support climate resilience activities in addition to carbon neutral activities. • The Private Sector. As discussed in Box 5, the private sector must not only adapt to climate change in making investments but can also be a partner in financing and implementing adaptation. 4.4 COMMUNICATION AND OUTREACH To facilitate the implementation of the NAP, all stakeholders from decision makers on policies to budget allocation, planners, implementers and beneficiaries need to be sensitised about the NAP, adaptation priorities, and their role in the NAP process. In this regard, the advocacy and outreach program will contain the following elements. 4.4.1 TARGET AUDIENCE: The outreach and communication for the NAP is targeted to both domestic stakeholders to implement relevant priorities and to the international community to facilitate provision of support for adaptation implementation in Bhutan. 4.4.2 ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF NATIONAL STAKEHOLDERS : The roles and responsibilities of the different stakeholders are described in section 4.5 on Roles and Responsibilities, and in Chapter 3 on adaptation priorities and needs and Chapter 5 on Monitoring and Evaluation. 4.4.3 MODALITIES FOR OUTREACH ON NAP IMPLEMENTATION: Due to the different types of stakeholder groups with differing levels of messaging required, the modalities for outreach and communication will be different. Therefore, the following approach is recommended for outreach and communication: • National planners, decision makers will be sensitised through policy briefings and seminars. • Local level planners and decision makers will require, policy briefings, seminars, trainings, and workshops. Participants in the different outreach modalities will need to be determined and may also require targeted trainings and outreach activities. • Civil society and private sector groups can also be covered through policy briefings, seminars, trainings, workshops. In addition, it is also recommended to conduct regular interchanges such as through a platform for a dialogue on policy, science, and practice. 100 • Research and Academia are important stakeholders in providing support to the NAP process with policy relevant research and can also part of a regular platform for dialogue for policy, science, and practice and subsequent integration of topics into the education curriculum. • Donors and development partners can be sensitised through briefings, outreach campaigns and dialogues such as the periodic Round Table Meetings or other platforms. • The general public and communities can be sensitised through media channels and targeted communication campaigns at grassroot levels. 4.5 ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES The implementation of the NAP will be in facilitated in line with the mandates under the Climate Change Policy. In this regard, the following roles and responsibilities are defined: Function Agency

1 Leading the NAP process including preparation of the NAP NEC Secretariat (DECC)

2 Integration of NAP into development plans NEC Secretariat (DECC), MoF, OCASC

3 Resource mobilisation and allocation MoF

4 Overall monitoring and coordination of climate change action NCCC/DECC

5 Implementation of priorities in line with mandates All agencies, stakeholders including CSOs 101 5. MONITORING AND EVALUATION The monitoring and evaluation (M&E) of the NAP and NAP process is considered at three different levels. The 1st level is M&E of this NAP to ensure the implementation of the adaptation priorities and enabling activities in line with the implementation strategy. The 2nd level is monitoring and reporting on adaptation action at the national level in line with the national climate change policy. The 3rd level is reporting is at the international level under the Paris Agreement and obligations for submission of Biennial Transparency Reports, which also requires information on adaptation. 5.1 MONITORING AND EVALUATION OF THE NAP The first level of M&E is on the NAP document, and this will assess progress in implementing the adaptation priorities as well as progress in the NAP process. 5.1.1 M&E OF THE IMPLEMENTATION OF ADAPTATION PRIORITIES M&E of progress in implementation of the adaptation priorities will be based on the adaptation priorities in chapter 3 on Adaptation Priorities. The objectives, outcomes, actions, and key performance indicators across the seven sectors will be the basis for assessing progress and effectiveness in implementation of the NAP. The major thematic approaches for implementation in chapter 4 can also inform the M&E of implementation of adaptation priorities. Along with the M&E, of programs and projects, the following should also be completed to support an iterative NAP process. i) The best practices and lessons learned (BPLL) should be captured to inform the next iteration of the NAP. The BPLL should examine the integration of adaptation into development planning, avoidance of maladaptation, and the opportunities for synergies (across sectors, between adaptation and mitigation, with sustainable development, and with other multilateral agreements). ii) Adequacy of support received for implementation in the form of finance, technology, and capacity building. iii) Assessment of gaps and barriers in NAP implementation, inclusivity of vulnerable groups, the private sector, civil society, and gender considerations The overall responsibility for initiating the M&E of the NAP will be with the NEC Secretariat (DECC) and reported though the C4 to the NEC/NCCC. Information for overall progress will be provided as follows: i) Information on the outputs of specific programs and activities will be provided by the lead agencies and collaborators based on the tables in Chapter 3. ii) Overall Progress and achievement of NAP Priorities (document) will be evaluated by the C4 through the CCD/NECS and reported to the NCCC. The following modalities will be used for the M&E of the implementation of the adaptation priorities. i) Stocktake against priorities in the NAP Document 102 ii) Consultation meetings or surveys guided by a framework for stock take to be developed prior to the meeting/survey and based on priorities in chapters 3, 4 and 5. Collection of gender disaggregated data shall be followed as applicable. iii) Annual reports to C4/NCCC and cabinet as per CC policy iv) Reports to funding agencies (project level reporting) as required and appropriate. The timing of the M&E shall be as follows: i) Annual survey of progress or a stocktake meeting to report on activities. ii) A mid-term review in year 2.5 and completed by year 3 at the latest will inform next phase of NAP iii) By year 4, preparations for the formulation for next iteration of the NAP should begin based on evaluation of reports from (i) & (ii) iv) By end of year 5 the subsequent NAP must be ready (with short term priority to 5 years and rolling priorities till year 10.) v) At end of year 5, evaluation of NAP vi) Align the stock-takes and reviews together with preparation of BTR to reduce duplication of efforts. vii) Post project/post NAP period review/evaluation after 2-3 years of previous NAP for sustainability and impact 5.1.2 M&E OF THE NAP PROCESS The M&E of this NAP will also assess the NAP process to ensure the continuity in the support and process for adaptation planning and implementation. The M&E of the NAP process shall be based on the “enabling activities” in chapter 3 and program developed for enabling activities in line the implementation strategy in chapter 4. The roles and responsibilities, modalities, and timing for M&E of the enabling activities will be the same as the M&E for adaptation priorities above. Some additional elements to be covered in the M&E of the NAP process are: i) Outcomes and Key indicators in Table on enabling activities in chapter 3. ii) Other outputs of the NAP readiness project such as the climate research roadmap, stakeholder engagement plan, policy review. iii) The overall effectiveness of the NAP process can be assessed using the LDC Expert Group’s PEG M&E tool to gauge the ‘progress, effectiveness, and gaps’ (PEG) based on the 10 NAP essential functions. 103 5.2 M&E TO SUPPORT NATIONAL REPORTING UNDER THE CLIMATE CHANGE POLICY The second level of M&E is national level reporting on progress towards developing climate resilience in Bhutan. M&E for this is defined by the requirements of the Climate Change Policy (CCP) 2020 and may cover additional processes and actions beyond activities within this NAP. The purpose of M&E under CCP 2020 is to ensure coherence in national efforts for climate action. 5.2.1 PROCESS FOR MONITORING , REPORTING AND EVALUATION UNDER THE CLIMATE CHANGE POLICY The requirements of M&E under CCP 2020 are defined in section 6 of the policy. This section of the policy defines a general process and hierarchy of reporting on actions towards comprehensive climate action including mitigation, adaptation, means of implementation. The section defines roles for the NCCC, C4, NECS and all relevant agencies and organization. The NECS and C4 as the secretariat and technical coordinating body have a key role in ensuring monitoring and reporting on progress are carried out as part of their mandates. The role of the Cabinet, Royal Audit Authority and Parliament are also defined in ensuring oversight in evaluating progress under the policy. 5.2.2 MEASURING RESILIENCE AND ADAPTIVE CAPACITY Besides process requirements for monitoring and reporting procedures in section 6 of the CC Policy, Policy Objective 2: “Building resilience to climate change”, requires assessing climate resilience. Statement 2.4 of this objective states, “Assess progress in adaptation including measurement of resilience to climate change.” Measuring resilience under this statement is in line with one of the overarching NAP objectives to “Reduce vulnerability to the impacts of climate change by building adaptive capacity and resilience”. Measuring resilience and adaptive capacity is a complex endeavour and as of date Bhutan has not adopted a system to assess climate resilience and adaptive capacity. Such a system will require continuous research and reporting and numerous inputs and variables to inform the status and progress in assessing climate resilience. Following an examination of various options for assessing progress on adaptation14 and the experience in preparing the NAP in Bhutan, it is recommended that a system for measuring climate resilience be developed based on the approach already undertaken in the “Climate Change Vulnerability Analyses (CCVA) and Mapping for National Adaptation Plan (NAP) formulation process in Bhutan15” (NEC 2021). The approach under the CCVA mapping exercise are as follows: i) The basic approach to assess resilience follows the Climate Change Risk Assessment Framework as per the fifth assessment report (AR5) of Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) 14 Adaptation Committee, Technical Paper on Approaches to reviewing the overall progress made in achieving the global goal on adaptation, 9 April 2021, UNFCCC 15 http://www.nec.gov.bt/publications/download/climate-change-vulnerability-analyses-and-mapping-for-nap- formulation-process-in-bhutan 104 ii) A spatial component to measure differences in adaptive capacity and risks across regions and communities and populations is assessed through spatial analysis using GIS. iii) A temporal component is included to track the dynamic nature of climate change. This component will require future projections and replication of the assessment in a periodic and continuous manner. The CCVA Mapping was undertaken as part of the NAP preparation process to assess vulnerability and risk assessments across various administrative regions in Bhutan to inform decision making for adaptation planning and budget allocation. The indices could be used as a proxy for resilience across different regions and over time used to assess trends in adaptive capacity and resilience. The data and variables informing this assessment is illustrated in figure 40 below. This approach is like a scoreboard approach to assessing progress across different criteria and among different regions and countries. The baseline for Bhutan has already been developed in 2021 in the first CCVA exercise and should be further refined and updated to track progress and trends in climate risk and adaptive capacity over time. The next assessment should be undertaken in time to inform the preparation of Bhutan’s 2nd NAP. Figure 40: Impact chain describing the relationship between the factors that drive vulnerability in Bhutan (NEC 2021) 5.2.3 TRACKING SUPPORT Ensuring adequate means of implementation is key to achieving the objectives of climate action and is recognized as such in the CC Policy and also in the UNFCC and Paris Agreement. Under the CC Policy 2020, Policy Objective 3: “ensure means of implementation”, states that support should be provided through finance, technology, capacity building, research and awareness to support both mitigation and adaptation. The CC policy states that resources should be provided from a mix of domestic and international sources through the government budgetary system. Policy statement 3.1.4 states that the RGOB should, “Monitor and report flow of financial support from domestic and international sources 105 for climate action through the government budgetary system to ensure transparency of support needed and received.” This policy statement on monitoring and reporting the flow of financial support is intended to ensure transparency of support for climate action and is aligned to support national reporting to the Paris Agreement as part of the Enhanced Transparency Framework (ETF). 5.3 M&E TO SUPPORT INTERNATIONAL REPORTING UNDER THE PARIS AGREEMENT All parties under the Paris Agreement are obligated to submit Biennial Transparency Reports (BTR) every two years. The BTR should include national GHG inventories, achievements towards NDCs, and should also report on climate change impacts and adaptation. Developing countries should also report on support (finance, technology, capacity building) needed and received. Elements for the M&E system as described in the previous sections such as adaptation priorities and enabling activities in the NAP document, the M&E process under the CC policy and measuring resilience not only to respond to national requirements for M&E but will also contribute to international obligations for reporting under the Paris Agreement. Information on what is to be reported for adaptation under the ETF and BTRs can be found in the Reference Manual for the Enhanced Transparency Framework under the Paris Agreement (UNFCCC 2020). 5.4 DEVELOPING A NATIONAL M&E SYSTEM FOR CLIMATE CHANGE In developing a national M&E system for adaptation, this will be undertaken as part of the M&E requirements under the CC Policy 2020 should be complementary and build on existing national monitoring and evaluation systems. Some of the relevant tools and guidelines include, Development Evaluation Policy of Bhutan 2017 and its Protocol and Guidelines, electronic Public Expenditure Management System (ePEMS) and the Annual Performance Agreement (APA) for line agencies of the government. Since periodic reporting will be required as part of the Biennial Transparency Reports (BTR) to be submitted under the Paris Agreement and requires additional resources, support to develop a national system for transparency and reporting is available as part of the Capacity Building Initiative for Transparency (CBIT) through the GEF. 106 REFERENCES • Adaptation Committee, UNFCCC (2021), Approaches to reviewing the overall progress made in achieving the global goal on adaptation. • GNHC, 2018, 12th Five Year Development Plan. Thimphu. • GNHC, 2022, Draft Concept Note for the 13th Five Year Plan (FYP 2024-29) • IPCC, 2014: Climate Change 2014: Impacts, Adaptation, and Vulnerability. Part A: Global and Sectoral Aspects. Contribution of Working Group II to the Fifth Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change [Field, C.B., V.R. Barros, D.J. Dokken, K.J. Mach, M.D. Mastrandrea, T.E. Bilir, M. Chatterjee, K.L. Ebi, Y.O. Estrada, R.C. Genova, B. Girma, E.S. Kissel, A.N. Levy, S. MacCracken, P.R. Mastrandrea, and L.L. White (eds.)]. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, United Kingdom and New York, NY, USA, 1132 pp • Kagawa, F. (2022). The Heat is On! Towards a Climate Resilient Education System in Bhutan. Kathmandu: UNICEF Regional Office for South Asia • National Center for Hydrology and Meteorology 2019, Report on the Analysis of Historical Climate and Climate Projection for Bhutan, RGOB, Thimphu • National Environment Commission (NEC) 2020, Third National Communication of the Kingdom of Bhutan, Royal Government of Bhutan, Thimphu • National Statistical Bureau 2021, Statistical Yearbook of Bhutan 2021, October 2021, Thimphu • NEC/UNDP Draft Protocol for Bhutan Climate Change Platform, Thimphu. NAP Readiness Project, Thimphu 2021 • NEC/UNDP NAP Readiness Project, SDG Structured Dialogue, NAP Readiness Project, Thimphu 2020 • NEC/UNDP, Assessment of Climate Risks on Agriculture for NAP Formulation Process in Bhutan, NAP Readiness Project, Thimphu 2022 • NEC/UNDP, Assessment of Climate Risks on Forests and Biodiversity for NAP Formulation Process in Bhutan, NAP Readiness Project, Thimphu 2022 • NEC/UNDP, Assessment of Climate Risks on Health for NAP Formulation Process in Bhutan, NAP Readiness Project, Thimphu 2022 • NEC/UNDP, Assessment of climate risks on Water Resources for the NAP in Bhutan, NAP Readiness Project, Thimphu 2022 • NEC/UNDP, Climate Change Vulnerability Analyses and Mapping for NAP Formulation Process in Bhutan, NAP Readiness Project, Thimphu 2022 • NEC/UNDP, Guidelines for National Adaptation Plan (NAP) Formulation Process in Bhutan, NAP Readiness Project, Thimphu 2020 • NEC/UNDP, National Guidance for NAP formulation, NAP Readiness Project, Thimphu 2020 • NEC/UNDP, Protocol for NAP formulation process in Bhutan, NAP Readiness Project, Thimphu 2020 • NEC/UNDP, Skills Assessment for Climate Change Vulnerability Analyses and National Adaptation Plan (NAP) Mapping for National Adaptation Plan (NAP) Formulation Process in Bhutan, NAP Readiness Project, Thimphu 2020 • NEC/UNDP, Skills Assessment for NAP Formulation Process in Bhutan, Thimphu , Bhutan, NAP Readiness Project, Thimphu 2020 • NEC/UNDP, Stakeholder Engagement Plan for NAP (2020) Thimphu, NAP Readiness Project, Thimphu 2020 107 • NEC/UNDP, Stakeholder Engagement Plan for National Adaptation Plan (NAP), NAP Readiness Project, Thimphu 2020 • NEC/UNDP, Stocktaking for Climate Change Vulnerability Analyses and National Adaptation Plan (NAP) Mapping for National Adaptation Plan (NAP) Formulation Process in Bhutan, NAP Readiness Project, Thimphu 2020 • RGOB 2020, Climate Change Policy of the Kingdom of Bhutan 2020. Royal Government of Bhutan, Thimphu • RGOB 2022, Royal Government of Bhutan “How Government Works”. www.gov.bt accessed June 11, 2022 • RGOB, GNHC (2017) Bhutan: Strategic Programme for Climate Resilience (SPCR) – November 2017 • RGOB, GNHC (2021) 21st Century Economic Roadmap, overview available online at https://economicroadmap.gnhc.gov.bt/ • RGOB, MOAF (2020) National REDD+ Strategy and Action Plan • RGOB, MOEA (2021) Bhutan Sustainable Hydropower Development Policy 2021 • RGOB, NEC (2015) Intended Nationally Determined Contribution from Bhutan • RGOB, NEC (2020) Third National Communication from Bhutan to the UNFCCC • RGOB, NEC (2021) Second Nationally Determined Contribution from Bhutan • RGOB, NEC, (2012), National Adaptation Programme of Action: Update of Projects and Profiles 2012 • RGOB, NEC, (2013), Technology Needs Assessments and Project Idea Report for Adaptation • RGOB, NEC, (2013), Technology Needs Assessments and Technology Action Plans for Climate Change Adaptation • RGOB, NEC, GNHC (2020), Bhutan 's Country Work Program for Green Climate Fund • RMA, (2021) Proposal for green Finance Roadmap for Bhutan, as available in various bulletins and presentations • Royal Commission for Urban Development, 2022, Note on for Project title: Green Infrastructure Systems towards Resilient Thimphu city • Royal Commission for Urban Development, 2022, Project Proposal for the formulation of Paro- Thimphu Regional Plan. • Royal Monetary Authority, Druk Ngudrel Lamtoen-2030: A Roadmap for a Progressive, Agile, and Resilient Central Bank Enabling Bhutan’s Economic Transformation, RMA, Thimph, August 2021 • RUB/NEC/UNDP, A Roadmap and Strategy for Strengthening Climate Change Research in Bhutan 2021 – 2025, NAP Readiness Project, Thimphu 2020 • Thinley Namgyel, KhaaZhi Consulting, Chang Lam, Desk Review in preparation for Drafting the National Adaptation Plan for Bhutan, Report submitted for the Project, Preparation of a National Adaptation Plan (NAP) for Bhutan, with a focus on the water sector, UNDP/NEC, Thimphu, Bhutan28 June 2021 • UNCDF Bhutan “Local Climate Adaptative Living Facility (LoCAL) Programmes in Bhutan”, 2020, accessed 20 June 2021 https://www.uncdf.org/bhutan. • UNFCCC LDC Expert Group, (2012), National Adaptation Plans, Technical guidelines for the national adaptation plan process, UNFCCC • UNFCCC, (2020), Reference Manual for the Enhanced Transparency Framework under the Paris Agreement. Understanding the enhanced transparency framework and its linkages to nationally determined contribution accounting. 108 • UNFCCC, CMA Decision, (2018) "Further guidance in relation to the adaptation communication, including, inter alia, as a component of nationally determined contributions, referred to in Article 7, paragraphs 10 and 11, of the Paris Agreement" , Decision 9/CMA.1 109 ANNEXURES 110 ANNEX 1: SUMMARY OF THE ESTIMATED COST DETAILED ADAPTATION PRIORITIES Sl. Activity Estimates in USD No. A WATER

1 Improve natural capacity for infiltration, water recharge, and water 500,000 buffer for prevention of fast runoff and erosion

2 Strengthen and upscale PES. 100,000 Review PES framework and field guide

3 Conduct feasibility studies to build emergency storage, bypasses, and 62,000 controlled releases from glacial lakes. River basin management and planning for basin optimization.

4 Promotion of water efficient technologies 23,500 Conduct advocacy on water efficient technologies

5 Ensuring proper monitoring, planning and supply of drinking water 123,000,000

6 Exploring volume of rainwater generated at water stressed areas for 200,000 domestic use. Developing assessment guide for integration of holistic use of water resources

7 Reduction of Non-Revenue Water losses 6,500,000

8 Strengthen database/inventory on drinking water supply schemes 4,000,000

9 Improve planning, designing and implementation of climate resilient 70,000,000 irrigation

10 Robust water resources planning and monitoring system 18,000

11 Strengthening research on water resource management including 25,400

12 Strengthening research on water resource management including 183,000 groundwater resources. i. Research on water resource management including groundwater resources and soil moisture ii. Enhance hydrological and groundwater modelling. iii. Carry out studies on the options for household/institution level rainwater harvesting or creating additional water storage capacity. iv. Assess climate risk on water intensive industries (168 water intensive industries as of 2022)

13 Enhancing capacity of key stakeholders in managing the impacts of 135,000 climate change on water

14 Capacity development of flood and storm water management from river 150,000 flooding and urban floods SUB TOTAL WATER 204,896,900 B AGRICULTURE AND LIVESTOCK

1 Efficient utilization of alpine rangeland and development of agroforestry 40,000 systems for livestock

2 Sustainable management and utilization of alpine rangeland resources 2,000,000

3 Mapping and identification and assessment, of indigenous forage/grass 140,000 species

4 Enhanced availability of feeding resources through agro-forestry system 3,000,000 111

5 Promote pasture under agro-forestry system (orchard, silvo pastoral) 133,000

6 Upscale usage of crop residues through enrichment and fodder 130,000 conservation

7 Conservation and promotion of climate resilient native livestock breeds 200,000 Conservation and development of native poultry breeds

8 Conservation and development of native piggery breeds 200,000

9 Development of suitable Bhutanese cattle breed through cross 100,000 breeding

10 Promotion of advanced livestock reproductive technologies (Sex sorted 100,000 AI, ET,) for enhanced dairy productivity

11 Promote Effective Microorganism Technology (EMT) in poultry and 350,000 piggery farms

12 Fencing on pastureland to reduce incidence of wildlife depredation on 1,000,000 livestock

13 Improve micro-climate conditions in animal sheds 700,000

14 Expand apiculture for boosting honey production and enhance crop 2,000,000 productivity

15 Water efficient and low-cost fodder production during lean season 300,000 (hydroponics)

16 Promote heat and cold resistant fodder varieties 30,000

17 Adopt labor saving devices and equipment to reduce drudgery on 200,000 women and vulnerable groups

18 Expand community-based capture fisheries. 50,000

19 Explore cage culture fisheries in inland water bodies and hydropower 100,000 dams

20 Explore and introduce low-cost fish production technologies 133,000 (aquaponics)

21 GIS application for livestock development (to map migratory cattle and 100,000 yak herds)

22 Digitalization to generate real time data for informed decision making 50,000

23 Reduced vulnerability of livestock farmers against losses from climate 3,000,000 change impacts

24 Institute recording and reporting system on livestock lost due to climate 33,000 induced extremes

25 Improve farm biosecurity 33,000

26 Strengthen transboundary animal disease reporting and management 10,000 system

27 Initiate herd health management 50,000

28 Promote and popularize traditional knowledge and practices for safe 33,000 and sustainable livestock production

29 Promote adoption of micro irrigation (Drip, sprinkler) by increasing 5,000,000 accessibility to farmers through simple, affordable, and smart technology

30 Improve soil carbon, health and fertility through adoption of improved 60,000,000 and integrated soil nutrient management practices

31 Strengthen pest surveillance system and diagnostic facilities 2,000,000 Develop and Promote Integrated Pest Management technologies

32 Develop efficient post-harvest infrastructures and distribution system. 4,000,000 112

33 Institute climate risk management for food production through 4,000,000 insurance and compensation schemes covering climate change impacts

34 Adopt innovative, gender responsive technologies for smart climate 1,500,000 resilient farming

35 Explore, develop and promote climate resilient crop varieties and 2,000,000 climate smart technologies to improve sustainable production systems

36 Targeted and enhanced capacity building for adaptation for food 500,000 security

37 Targeted training on impacts of climate change in food production at 2,000,000 sectoral to community levels. SUB TOTAL FOR AGRICULTURE AND LIVESTOCK 95,215,000 C. FOREST AND BIODIVERSITY

1 Develop and implement the forest fire management strategy and plans 1,000,000

2 Continue implementation of the plan 500,000

3 Conduct Capacity Need Assessment and build capacity. 400,000

4 Conduct periodic training on forest fire management for multi 500,000 stakeholders

5 Upscale and strengthen the Dzongkhag level fire management 800,000 interventions. Integrate Dzongkhag and local level fire management plans

6 Implement advance early warning systems 500,000

7 Strengthen forest fire surveillance and communication system (including 1,500,000 forest fire suppression equipment)

8 Strengthen support for large fires and IFCG 3,000,000

9 Develop awareness program/ materials and carry out awareness 50,000

10 Carry out awareness campaigns 20,000

11 Manage fuel load 250,000

12 Manage fuel load 300,000

13 Carry out post fire habitat management 500,000

14 Carry out post fire habitat management 500,000

15 Develop capacity to monitor biodiversity and support implementation of 100,000 Bhutan Biodiversity Monitoring Protocol

16 Continue support to implementation of biodiversity monitoring protocol 200,000

17 Strengthen existing database systems. 50,000

18 Updating the revamped database system 50,000

19 Build capacity to conduct NFI and biodiversity survey 10,500,000

20 Develop database systems and implement the database to document 500,000 and monitor

21 Develop NFI database 300,000

22 Develop capacity to conduct NFI and data analysis 200,000

23 Procure equipment and conduct NFI 4,000,000

24 Develop and implement online National Forest Monitoring Portal to 300,000 monitor forest cover change on real time basis

25 Integrate National Forest Monitoring Portal into the existing NFMS 200,000

26 Assess and enhance technical capacity and infrastructure 500,000 113

27 Implement molecular techniques and methodologies for biodiversity 10,000 assessment

28 Develop suitable guidelines for plantations and regeneration in 20,000 broadleaved forest

29 Assess existing plantations and formulate suitable plantation techniques 20,000 and regeneration methods

30 Carry out plantation in identified broadleaved forest (FMUs, LFMAs) and 200,000 maintain these sites through community engagement

31 Carry out plantation in identified broadleaved forest (FMUs, LFMAs) and 300,000 maintain these sites through community engagement

32 Carry out reforestation in degraded areas in SRF 200,000

33 Maintenance of reforestation in degraded areas in SRF 300,000

34 Identification and mapping of sites requiring restoration and 100,000 rehabilitation

35 Carry out habitat management interventions such as enrichment 300,000 plantations, grassland and alpine meadow management, salt licks, snags, waterholes, river back protections, etc. in identified areas

36 Carry out habitat management interventions such as enrichment 1,000,000 plantations, grassland and alpine meadow management, salt licks, snags, waterholes, river back protections, etc. in identified areas

37 Identification and mapping of fragile habitats and species 30,000

38 Develop and implement sustainable restoration plans. 50,000

39 Implement sustainable restoration plans 150,000

40 Develop legal framework for inclusion of wildlife movement friendly 50,000 infrastructure to enable long term migration under climate change

41 Support to implementing the existing Zero Poaching Strategy 1,000,000

42 Revise and implement Zero Poaching Strategy 1,200,000

43 Identify and map areas prone to pests and diseases, and initiate periodic 50,000

44 Continue periodic monitoring and surveillance of the identified areas. 100,000

45 Project pest and disease spread through scientific modelling 50,000

46 Develop required mitigations/interventions based on the results from 100,000 the monitoring.

47 Develop pest and disease strategy and management plan, and support 50,000 implementation

48 Continue implement pest and disease strategy and management plan. 100,000

49 Identify zoonotic diseases and implement strategic actions. 150,000

50 Support implementation of wildlife health strategy 100,000

51 Support to review the wildlife health strategy and continue to support 100,000 implementation.

52 Develop capacity on GIS & RS, entomology, and Drone mapping 500,000

53 Build capacity on assessment, control, and management of invasive 1,000,000 species

54 Training on techniques for control of alien invasive species 1,000,000

55 Implement IAS management plan 100,000

56 Strengthen surveillance and monitoring of IAS. 150,000

57 Prevent introduction and establishment of IAS and manage existing IAS 50,000 114

58 Prevent introduction and establishment of IAS and manage existing IAS. 100,000

59 Support socio-ecological assessment of Transboundary Peace Park and 50,000 support development and implementation of its management plan 60 continue support to implementation of the management plan of the 100,000 Peace Park

61 Identification of Other Effective Area Based Conservation Measures 300,000 (OECMs) and development of plans for identified areas.

62 Implementation of the management action plans 500,000

63 Support to implementation of the Human Wildlife Conflict Management 1,000,000 (HWCM) Strategy

64 Revise and implement the HWCM Strategy. 1,500,000

65 Support to implementation of the PA management plan 500,000

66 Support to revision of climate smart management plans of PAs and 1,000,000 implementation.

67 Promote Community Based Natural Resource Management (Community 500,000 Forests, NWFP, Agroforestry)

68 Continue support to revision and implementation of CF, NWFP and 1,000,000 Agroforestry plans

69 Support to implementation of FMU management Plan 200,000

70 Support revision of management plans of FMUs and implementation. 500,000

71 Support community-based cottage scale forest enterprises (NWFP, 1,000,000 Wood, Ecotourism)

72 Continue to promote community-based cottage scale forest enterprises 500,000 (NWFP, Wood, Ecotourism)

73 Develop and implement strategy for development of wood-based 100,000 industries to reduce timber wastage following circular economy concept

74 Develop and implement strategy for sustainable timber harvesting and 200,000 utilization

75 Promote adoption of efficient and climate smart timber processing 500,000 technologies to improve wood-based industries (WBI) to reduce wastage and maximize timber utilization.

76 Promote adoption of efficient and climate smart timber processing 500,000 technologies to improve wood-based industries to reduce wastage and maximize timber utilization.

77 Carry out capacity development program in timber processing, wood 200,000 science and technology.

78 Carry out capacity development program in timber processing, wood 300,000 science and technology.

79 Need assessment in natural product development and market analysis 20,000

80 Develop nature-based products to derive benefits and equitable sharing 100,000 among rural communities

81 Infrastructure development (Lab and equipment’s) 1,000,000

82 Promote Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS) regime 30,000

83 Enhancing the use of local knowledge and beliefs for the conservation of 1,000,000 biodiversity and forest

84 Research on phytochemical analysis and product development 500,000

85 Develop gender responsive natural resources access framework 20,000 SUB TOTAL OF BIODIVERSITY AND FOREST 48,470,000 115 D. HUMAN SETTLEMENTS AND CLIMATE SMART CITIES

1 Develop climate smart cities and human settlements. 676,329

2 Leverage “green infrastructure” for ecosystem-based adaptation in 1,000,000 urban areas.

3 Implement green infrastructure plan as part of implementation of 20,000,000 Thimphu structure plan.

4 Ensure/Green space; micro parks, avenue plantation, green building 6,039 components in urban/town areas.

5 Build comprehensive database for urban areas 579,710

6 Enhance logistics preparedness for disaster management and improved 241,546 service delivery

7 Climate proof critical infrastructures and settlements against floods and 78,381,643 landslides i. Provide climate resilient infrastructure in critical areas for disaster risk reduction ii. Review and develop flood and storm water management plans and Low Impact Development Plans for urban areas iii. Review design of Flood protection management protective structures like dams, drainage systems, and barriers in flood-prone areas including in industrial/economic zones.

8 Strengthen windstorm management through capacity building 114,734 and awareness

9 Construct climate resilient road infrastructure 12,987,922,705 i. Reduce risk of landslides from increased precipitation in critical zones ii. Construction of climate resilient road infrastructure SUB TOTAL HUMAN SETTLEMENTS AND CLIMATE SMART CITIES 13,088,922,705 E. HEALTH

1 Strengthen laboratory facilities and monitoring systems for climate 1,811,594 sensitive diseases.

2 Improve access to water supply and sanitation for health facilities 603,865

3 Conduct vulnerability assessment of health care facilities for climate 3,683,575 change induced disasters

4 Strengthen the monitoring mechanism for WASH improvements in HCFs 60,386 through close collaboration among RCDC, IPC, QASD and AMR

5 Strengthen waste management system in healthcare facilities and 458,937 Thromdes to control climate sensitive disease vectors

6 Capacity development on climate induced emergency medical services 4,227,053

7 Strengthen existing surveillance system 30,193

8 Develop a vector borne diseases early warning and prediction model 42,271

9 Develop monitoring framework for prevention and control of climate 42,271 sensitive diseases

10 Cross border collaboration for climate sensitive diseases prevention and 30,193 control (migrant screening, vector surveillance in project areas, awareness)

11 Review and sustain cross border collaboration 30,193

12 Enhance capacity of health workers for management and surveillance of 90,580 climate sensitive and vector borne diseases 116

13 Establish national center for training and research on VBDs and 5,434,783 zoonoses

14 Develop HR capacity for National centre on training and research for 90,580 climate sensitive diseases

15 Operational research on VBDs 30,193

16 Develop community capacity for prevention of VBDs in high-risk areas 45,290

17 Review of community participation to develop sustainable community 45,290 engagement plan

18 Capacity development of pre-service and in-service health workers on 120,773 water quality monitoring as per international standard

19 Enhance capacity for diagnosis and management of new/emerging 36,232 climate sensitive diseases)

20 Training of health workers on climate change adaptation using WHO 301,932 training modules

21 Create awareness to workers and employers of the potential accident 48,309 and disease risks associated with climate variabilities

22 Integrate and organized climate change teaching and learning 362,319 curriculums

23 Strengthen disease outbreak investigation and response for prioritized 603,865 zoonoses issues.

24 Conduct awareness campaigns on risks of increased zoonoses events 603,865 from human wildlife interface and livestock due to climate change.

25 Conduct climate change related emerging disease burden study in the 241,546 country

26 Assess health system vulnerability and adaptation to climate change 483,092

27 Policy review on integration of health in policies of health determining 30,193 sectors

28 Assess risk of heat waves and heat stress across different population 72,464 groups SUB TOTAL OF HEALTH 19,661,835 F. ENERGY

1 Implementation from the recommendation of green hydrogen roadmap 6,000,000

2 Implement rooftop solar PV at consumer’s premises and development 60,000,000 of prosumer market.

3 Renewable Energy for Climate Resilience (Phase-II) 382,000,000

4 Promoting Energy Security and Transition Project 8,000,000

5 Implement waste to energy plant 1,000,000

6 Install Solar Water Heating System 1,000,000

7 Development of Energy Information System 500,000

8 Development of Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPs) 500,000

9 Development of energy efficiency codes of practice for Building 1,000,000

10 Implementation of energy efficiency codes of practice for industries 200,000

11 Certification of energy professional as energy auditors 100,000

12 Certification of Energy Efficiency buildings 200,000

13 Strengthening of Electrical testing laboratory 1,000,000

14 Study on investment opportunities for energy efficiency projects 200,000 117

15 Assess and incorporate climate resilient energy technologies and power 12,000,000 system infrastructure

16 Undertake Feasibility Study of a Pumped Storage scheme and DPR 8,000,000 update of reservoir type hydropower project

17 Development of a Pumped Storage Power Plant (PSPP) and reservoir 1,985,677 type hydropower projects 18 1 PSPP and 1 Reservoir Hydropower Projects developed 1,994,364

19 Construction of Nyera Amari-I&II Integrated HPP; 376,925

20 Construction of Begana Integrated Multipurpose Small Hydropower 29,752 Projects (IMSHP) SUB TOTAL OF ENERGY 486,086,718 G. CLIMATE SERVICE AND DISASTER RISK REDUCTION

1 Operationalize the generation of agro-met advisory services. 1,000,000 Establish end-to-end channels of dissemination of weather and climate advisories (media, SMS, community network etc.)

2 Develop a grassroots advocacy program on early warning preparedness 300,000 for farmers and communities on extreme events and seasonal risks SUB TOTAL OF CLIMATE SERVICE AND DISASTER RISK REDUCTION 1,300,000 DETAILED ENABLING ACTIVITIES A. POLICY AND INSTITUTIONAL

1 Develop TOR and mandates and identify climate change units in line 25,000 with CC policy and NEPA 2007 Institute CC units in national agencies

2 Develop TOR and mandates for climate change units in line with CC 50,000 policy and NEPA 2007 and LG Act, and of Gender, Environment, Climate, Disaster, Poverty (GECDP)

3 Review and revise policies and legislation for gaps and opportunities in 100,000 effective integration and implementation of climate action.

4 Strengthen the NEC Secretariat (CCD/DECC) in supporting the NCCC (HR, 10,000 training, resources) Regular briefings to NCCC on CC Adaptation and NAP process as necessary. Annual review on NAP process by NCCC (based on C4 reports)

5 Capacity building of Climate change Coordination Committee (C4) for its 50,000 mandate on adaptation (Capacity building of members of C4) Review progress in NAP process covered in meetings of the NCCC

6 Enhance One Health Initiative of MOH to include other sectors for 10,000 climate change priorities in NAP

7 Continuous enhancement and maintenance of Bhutan Climate Platform 300,000 to support NAP process Trainings for new collaborators and refresher for focal persons

8 Regular engagement with CSOs and the private sector on NAP process 100,000 and adaptation implementation SUB TOTAL OF POLICY AND INSTITUTIONAL 645,000 B. MONITORING AND EVALUATION AND NAP PROCESS

1 I. Prepare annual progress report on implementation of the NAP 300,000 II. Capture best practices and lessons learned (BOPLL) in implementation 118 of the NAP III. Prepare 2nd NAP in an iterative manner

2 I. Review and enhance the approach in “Climate Change vulnerability 300,000 analyses and mapping for NAP formulation process in Bhutan” for measuring vulnerability & adaptive capacity at a national level and across sub-national levels of dzongkhags and gewogs II. Develop a tool for assessing adaptive capacity and vulnerability to climate change to assist planners and practitioners for planning and implementation of adaptation projects and programs.

3 Establish a national monitoring and tracking system to report on 100,000 “support received” for climate change actions (mitigation and adaptation) for the Biennial Transparency Reports (BTR) by assessing and building on existing national monitoring systems. Assess and prepare a report on the Progress, Effectiveness and Gaps (PEG) on NAP process by year 3 of NAP implementation program.

4 Set up an M&E framework for the water sector along the lines of the 100,000 Bhutan Water Security Index (BWSI). SUB TOTAL OF MONITORING AND EVALUATION AND NAP PROCESS 800,000 C. RESEARCH AND DATA

1 Conduct policy-relevant and need-based research for climate change 5,000,000 adaptation through “Strategic Imperative I: Tackle issues which matter”

2 Disseminate and increase awareness of climate change research to 300,000 inform adaptation planning in Bhutan and further through strategic imperatives III and IV of the Roadmap

3 Strengthen and build sustainability of climate change research to 5,000,000 support the NAP process for through strategic imperatives II & V and update of the roadmap. SUB TOTAL OF RESEARCH AND DATA 10,300,000 D. CAPACITY BUILDING

1 I. Development of climate change learning module and curriculum 300,000 II. Vocational Education Curriculum Development for Climate Mitigation and Adaptation III. Creating awareness for students and their parents to understand climate change adaptation as a career option

2 Training of Trainer (TOT) programs and development of training 100,000 modules at RUB and RIM

3 I. Strengthen linkages with government, academia and extension 600,000 capacity of NGOs and CSOs operating in natural resource management/agriculture space; II. Develop and implement a public sensitization program on IKS across the community level; III. Develop a repository of all traditional and Indigenous knowledge systems Mainstream IKS in development projects.

4 Develop financing strategy for capacity building 300,000 Mainstream climate change capacity development in sectoral and local budgets SUB TOTAL OF CAPACITY BUILDING 1,300,000 119 E. EDUCATION AND AWARENESS

1 Review and integrate climate change and adaptation into education 300,000 curriculum in a comprehensive and holistic manner at appropriate levels d. Update information on CC for already integrated curriculum (higher levels) e. Refreshers and training for teachers f. Fill gaps in lower level by activity or other modes (clubs, activities, scouts, exploratory)

2 Provide scholarships for specialised trainings for key course based on 500,000 Skills Assessment Plan

3 Targeted training advocacy for (policy makers, planners, and 100,000 practitioners) on CC adaptation planning and implementation and integration through climate training programs and training of trainer programs

4 AV products for broadcast, print and online/social media developed and 300,000 delivered.

5 Develop and conduct grassroots advocacy program on climate risks and 600,000 adaptation, particularly for vulnerable communities and groups SUB TOTAL OF EDUCATION AND AWARENESS 1,800,000 TOTAL OF DETAILED ADAPTATION PRIORITIES 13,944,553,158 TOTAL OF ENABLING ACTIVITIES 14,845,000 TOTAL 13,959,398,158 SUMMARY OF SECTOR WISE FINANCING NEED Sl.No. Name Estimate in USD DETAILED ADAPTATION PRIORITIES

1 Water 204,896,900

2 Agriculture and livestock 95,215,000

3 Forest and biodiversity 48,470,000

4 Human settlement and climate smart cities 13,088,922,705

5 Health 19,661,835

6 Energy 486,086,718

7 Climate services and disaster risk reduction 1,300,000 TOTAL 13,944,553,158 DETAILED ENABLING ACTIVITIES

1 Policy and institutional 645,000

2 Monitoring and Evaluation of NAP Process 800,000

3 Research and Data 10,300,000

4 Capacity building 1,300,000

5 Education and awareness 1,800,000 TOTAL 14,845,000 GRAND TOTAL 13,959,398,158 120

ANNEX 2: LIST OF CONSULTATIONS IN PREPARING THE NAP NOTE: This chronology of consultations is only limited to the drafting of the 1st NAP document with the NAP Drafting Committee. This list does not include the consultations conducted for the background documents informing the NAP document prepared by the NAP Readiness Project. Sl.No. Activity Date Venue Participants 1 Kick off meeting 14th May NECS, Thimphu UNDP, WRCD, CCD and IC 2021 2 Inception Meeting 28th May Virtual TWG members 2021 3 Presentation on Desk 9th August Norkhil TWG Members Review for NAP Drafting 2021 Boutique, Thimphu 4 Bilateral meeting with DoA 18th August MoAF PPD, Representative from DoA and DoL 2021 Thimphu and DoL 5 Bilateral meeting with MoH 20th August MoH Representative from MoH and KGUMSB 2021 Conference and KGUMSB Hall, Thimphu 6 Bilateral meeting with 19th August DoFPS Representative from DoFPS DoFPS 2021 Conference Hall, Thimphu 7 Bilateral meeting with 28th WRCD, NEC, WRCD team WRCD September Thimphu 8 Bilateral meeting with DHS, 29th MoWHS Representative from MoIT (erstwhileMoWHS) September Conference MOWHS 2021 Hall, Thimphu 9 Bilateral meeting with 13th October BCCI, Thimphu Private sector representative Private Sectors 2021 10 DoA and DoL discussion on 30th August Naksel Hotel, DoL and DoA representative identification of adaptation to 3rd Paro priorities September 11 DoFPS and NBC discussion 2-3rd Lhayul Hotel, DoFPS and NBC on identification of September Haa, representative adaptation priorities 2021 12 MoH and KGUMSB 2-3rd Drubchhu MoH and KGUMSB discussion on identification September Resort, representative of adaptation priorities 2021 Punakha 121 Sl.No. Activity Date Venue Participants 13 NAP drafting Workshop to 21-22 Drubchhu TWG members discuss on identified October Resort, priorities 2021 Punakha 14 NAP drafting team meeting 12th Rochogphel, WRCD, CCD, UNDP and IC November Thimphu 2021 15 First Meeting of the NAP 11th Virtual Drafting team members Drafting Committee February 2022 16 Second Meeting of the NAP 28th Virtual Drafting team members Drafting Committee February 2022 17 Third Meeting of the NAP 4th to 6th Naksel Hotel, Drafting team members Drafting Committee May 2022 Paro 18 Private sector and CSO 20th May Norkhil, Representatives from Pvt consultation 2022 Thimphu and CSO sectors 19 CSO internal consultation on 4th June CSO hall, Representatives from CSO NAP priorities 2022 Thimphu sectors 20 NAP drafting and review 15th to 17th Kuenden TWG members team meeting June 2022 Boutique, Thimphu 21 NAP Project stock take 22nd Zasa, Thimphu NEC, PMU, consultant meeting September 2022 22 NAP, Drafting Committee 7th October Norkhil, TWG members meeting 2022 Thimphu 23 NAP Drafting Committee 12th October Norkhil, TWG members meeting 2022 Thimphu 24 1st Regional Consultation 19th October Swiss Guest NAP DC with dzongkhag level Meeting (Central Region) 2022 House, planners and experts (DT Bumthang chairs and sector heads) 25 2nd Regional Consultation 21st October Druk Doethjung NAP DC with dzongkhag level Meeting (Eastern Region) 2022 Hotel, planners and experts (DT Trashigang chairs and sector heads) 26 3rd Regional Consultation 24th October Grand Kuku NAP DC with dzongkhag level Meeting (Southern Region) 2022 Hotel, planners and experts (DT Gelephug chairs and sector heads) 27 4th Regional Consultation 27th October Drubchu NAP DC with dzongkhag level Meeting (Western Region) 2022 Resort, planners and experts (DT Punakha chairs and sector heads) 28 National level consultation 28th October Le Meridien NAP DC with heads of on NAP at executive level 2022 Hotel, Thimphu National Agencies, 122 Sl.No. Activity Date Venue Participants representatives of CSO, private sector, Donor Agencies. 29 Bilateral Adaptation 2nd Nov MoIT NEC, PMU, MoIT (erstwhile Priorities for human 2022 Conference MoWHS), Consultant settlements with MoIT Hall, Thimphu (erstwhile MoWHS) Participants’ list from the regional consultation Consultation on the Draft National Adaptation Plan for Central Region Date: 19th October 2022 Venue: Swiss Guest House, Bumthang Sl. Name Dzongkhag Designation Contact Email Address No. Number 1 Ms. Kinley Bidha Bumthang Dzongkhag 176885140 kbidha@bumthang.gov.bt Account Officer 2 Mr. Chungla Bumthang Chief Dzongkhag 17725394 chungla@bumthang.gov.bt Dorji Education Officer 3 Mr. Sonam Bumthang Chief Dzongkhag 17906527 drukdrel123@gmail.com Jamtsho Engineer 4 Ms. Rinzin Bumthang Dzongkhag 17581681 rinzinw@bumthang.gov.bt Wangmo Tshogdu Secretary 5 Mr. Chogyel Bumthang Dzongkhag 17992206 chojayt@bumthang.gov.bt Tenzin Planning Officer 6 Mr. Jigme Bumthang Dzongkhag 17606306 jkelzang@bumthang.gov.bt Kelzang Health Officer 7 Mr. Sonam Bumthang Dzongkhag 77302004 sonamgyeltshen@bumthan Gyeltshen Agriculture g.gov.bt Officer 8 Mr. Jambay Dorji Bumthang Dzongkhag 17830555 jdorji@bumthang.gov.bt Livestock Officer 9 Mr. Tow Bumthang Offtg. 17709948 ttshering@bumthang.gov.bt Tshering Environment Officer 10 Mr. Jamphel Bumthang Dzongkhag 17671655 jamphel@bumthang.gov.bt Tshogdu Thrizin 11 Mr. Kabi Raj NHRDC, Offtg. Program 17673488 kabirgurung@yahoo.com Gurung Bumthang Director 12 Mr. Karma Trongsa Dzongkhag 17304155 kwangchuk@trongsa.gov.bt Wangchuk Agriculture Officer 123 13 Mr. Phuntsho Trongsa Sr. Planning 77209790 prinzin@trongsa.gov.bt Rinzin Officer 14 Mr. Jigme Trongsa Sr. Dzongkhag 77866096 jchophel@trongsa.gov.bt Chophel Livestock Officer 15 Ms. Sonam Trongsa Asst. Economic 17583516 sdema@trongsa.gov.bt Dema Development Officer 16 Ms. Ugyen Dema Trongsa Asst. Finance 17615350 udema@trongsa.gov.bt Officer 17 Mr. Gembo Trongsa Dzongkhag 17115537 Drukpa Tshogdu Thrizin 18 Mr. Dubala Trongsa Gup, Drakteng 17535871 lalatsibduba333@gmail.com Gewog 19 Mr. Tashi Tobgay Trongsa Gewog 77383283 ttobgay@trongsa.gov.bt Administrative Officer,Tangsibji 20 Mr. Ugyen Zhemgang Dzongkhag 17682723 ulhendup@zhemgang.gov.b Lhendup Livestock Officer t 21 Mr. Jambay Zhemgang Offtg. Dzongkhag 17610599 jugyen@zhemgang.gov.bt Ugyen Agriculture Officer 22 Ms. Pelden Zhemgang Chief Dzongkhag 17647754 zhemgang@moe.gov.bt Wangmo Education Officer 23 Mr. Tshering Zhemgang Dzongkhag 17919779 tpenjor@zhemgang.gov.bt Penjor Health Officer 24 Mr. Lhakpa Zhemgang Offtg. Dzongkhag 17887381 lhakpatsheering@gmail.co Tshering Planning Officer m 25 Mr. Luv Kumar Zhemgang Chief Dzongkhag 17620881 luvchhetri@zhemgang.gov. Chhetri Engineer bt 26 Mr. Sonam Nima Zhemgang Dzongkhag 17311303 snima@zhemgang.gov.bt Tshogdu Secretary 27 Mr. Wangyal Zhemgang Dzongkhag 17856759 Wangayk2016@gmail.com Tshogdu Trizin 28 Mr. Sonam Zhemgang Forest Officer 17327340 sonamphuntsho@moaf.gov. Phuntsho bt 29 Mr. Jigme Dorji Wangduephodrang Sr. Dzongkhag 17766404 jigmed@wangduephodrang. Planning officer gov.bt 30 Mr. Domang Wangduephodrang Sr. Dzongkhag 17668304 domang@wangduephodran Agriculture g.gov.bt Officer 31 Mr. Ugyen Wangduephodrang Dzongkhag 17755934 ugyen@wangduephodrang. Livestock Officer gov.bt 32 Mr. Tshetrim Wangduephodrang Dzongkhag 17589663 tshetrimd@wangduephodra Dorji Finance Officer ng.gov.bt 124 33 Mr. Ugyen Wangduephodrang Dzongkhag 17440857 uwangchuk@wangduephod Wangchuk Environment rang.gov.bt Officer 34 Mr. Sonam Wangduephodrang Dzongkhag 17917211 roptangkhar32@gmail.com Tobgay Beautification Officer 35 Mr. Kinzang Wangduephodrang Dzongkhag 17371330 kinzangt1985@gmail.com Thinley Tshogdu Thrizin 36 Mr. Sonam Wangduephodrang Dzongkhag 17491489 somchuksonam558@gmail. Wangchuk Tshogdu com Secretary Consultation on the Draft National Adaptation Plan for East Region Date: 21st October 2022 Venue: Druk Deothjung Hotel, Trashigang Sl. Name Dzongkhag Designation Contact Email Address No. Number 1 Ms. Tshering Pem Mongar Research Officer 17688913 tsheringpem@moaf.gov .bt 2 Mr. Phurba Dorji Mongar Asst. Health 17491641 phurpa@gmail.com Officer 3 Mr. Phuntsho Mongar Chief Dzongkhag 17660007 phuntshodorji2013@gm Education ail.com Officer 4 Mr. Dorji Tshering Mongar Agriculture 17882075 dtshering02@gmail.com 5 Mr. Cheda Mongar Dzongkhag 17626585 cheda@moaf.gov.bt Livestock Officer 6 Ms. Sonam Choden Mongar Offtg.Planning 77394257 sonamchoden1@monga Officer r.gov.bt 7 Mr. Nima Tshering Mongar Dzongkhag 17907515 nimat@mongar.gov.bt Tshogdu Secretary 8 Ms. Ugyen Yangzom Mongar Dy. Dzongkhag 17687788 ugyenyangzom@gmail.c Tshogdu Thrizin om 9 Mr. Norbu Wangdi Mongar Forest Dy. Chief Forest 17707794 nwangdi@moaf.gov.bt Divison Officer 10 Mr. Karma Chewang Lhuentse Chief Dzongkhag 17615112 kchewang@lhuentse.go Agriculture v.bt Officer 11 Mr. Tshering Dorji Lhuentse Chief Dzongkhag 17936378 tsheringdorji78@moe.g Education ov.bt Officer 12 Mr. Ngajay Lhuentse Environment 175038 1 7 ngajay@lhuentse.gov.bt Officer 125 13 Mr. Phurpa Lhuentse Offtg. Dzongkhag 17681129 phurpat@moaf.gov.bt Tshering Livestock Officer 14 Mr. Ugyen Dorji Lhuentse Dzongkhag 17668719 udorji@lhuentse.gov.bt Health Officer 15 Mr. Pema Lhuentse Sr. Planning 17264626 ptshewang@lhuentse.g Tshewang Officer ov.bt 16 Mr. Phuntsho Lhuentse Dzongkhag 17875705 pwangdi@lhuentse.gov. Wangdi Tshogdu bt Secretary 17 Mr. Dawa Tshering Pema Gatshel Dy. Chief 17630288 dawatshering@pemagat Planning Officer shel.gov.bt 18 Mr. Pema Dorji Pema Gatshel Dzongkhag 17688513 pemadorji333@gmail.co Tshogdu Thrizin m 19 Mr. Sonam Zangpo Pema Gatshel Offtg. 17832192 szangpo@pemagatshel. Environment gov.bt Officer 20 Mr. Wangchuk Samdrup Dy. Chief 17801734 wangchuk@samdrupjon Jongkhar Planning Officer gkhar.gov.bt 21 Mr. Sachin Limbu Samdrup Environment 17774440 slimbu@samdrupjongkh Jongkhar Officer ar.gov.bt 22 Mr. Saha Bir Rai Samdrup Chief Dzongkhag 17731586 sahabirrai@samdrupjon Jongkhar Agriculture gkhar.gov.bt Officer 23 Mr. Ugyen Thinley Samdrup Chief DEO 17579362 uthinley@moe.gov.bt Jongkhar 24 Mr. Sonam Samdrup Economic 17506179 swangchuk@samdrupjo Wangchuk Jongkhar Development ngkhar.gov.bt Officer 25 Mr. Sonam Lhendup Samdrup Dzongkhag 17899881 slhendup@samdrupjong Jongkhar Engineer khar.gov.bt 26 Ms. Jigme Chozom Samdrup Finance Officer 17678607 jchozom@samdrupjong Jongkhar khar.gov.bt 27 Mr. Jamyang Samdrup Dzongkhag 17714925 jgyeltshen@samdrupjon Gyeltshen Jongkhar Tshogdu Thrizin gkhar.gov.bt 28 Mr. Sonam Wangdi Trashigang Statistical 17778785 sonamw@trashigang.go investigator v.bt 29 Mr. Suraj Gurung Trashigang Asst. Dzongkhag 17572373 sgurung@trashigang.go Agriculture v.bt Officer 30 Mr. Tashi Penjor Trashigang Dzongkhag 17625574 taship@trashigang.gov. Tshogdu bt Secretary 31 Mr. Naina Singh Trashigang Dy. Chief 17701339 nstamang@trashigang.g Tamang Dzongkhag ov.bt Livestock Officer 126 32 Mr. Wangchuk Dorji Sakteng Chief Forest 17583451 wdorji@moaf.gov.bt Wildlife Officer Sanctuary 33 Mr. Karma Leki Trashigang Chief Forest 17687706 kleki@moaf.gov.bt Forest Division Officer 34 Mr. Tshewang Trashi Yangtse Dzongkhag 17672556 tsither@trashiyangtse.g Sither Health Officer ov.bt 35 Mr. Jigmela Trashi Yangtse Environment 17361574 jigmela@trashiyangtse.g ov.bt 36 Mr. Tshering Dorji Trashi Yangtse Planning Officer 17752925 tdorji@trashiyangtse.go v.bt 37 Mr. Phurba Trashi Yangtse Dzongkhag 17633265 ptshering@trashiyangts Tshering Livestock Officer e.gov.bt 38 Mr. Tempa Trashi Yangtse Dzongkhag 17697755 tgyeltshen@trashiyangt Gyeltshen Beautification se.gov.bt Officer 39 Mr. Nima Wangdi Trashi Yangtse Dzongkhag 17438008 nwangdi@trashiyangtse Engineer .gov.bt 40 Ms. Sangay Lekzom Trashi Yangtse Offtg. Finance 17455448 schezom@trashiyangtse Officer .gov.bt 41 Mr. Cheku Trashi Yangtse Dzongkhag 17689045 chekuyub@gmail.com Tshogdu Thrizin 42 Ms. Karma Zangmo Trashi Yangtse Offtg. Dzongkhag 17495597 kzangmo@trashiyangtse Tshogdu .gov.bt Secretary 43 Ms. Sonam Choden Trashi Yangtse Chief Dzongkhag 17618989 sonamchoden83@moe. Education gov.bt Officer 44 Ms. Kezang Lhadon Samdrup Sr. Planning 17806345 klhaden@sjthromde.gov Jongkhar Officer .bt Thromde 45 Mr. Sonam Samdrup Deputy 17454558 swangchuk@sjthromde. Wangchuk Jongkhar Executive gov.bt Thromde Engineer 46 Mr. Bhagat Pokhrel Samdrup Assistant 17658299 bpokhrel@sjthromde.go Jongkhar Environment v.bt Thromde Officer 127 Consultation on the Draft National Adaptation Plan for South Region Date: 24th October 2022 Venue: Kuku Grand, Gelephu Sl. Name Dzongkhag Designation Contact Email Address No. Number 1 Mr. Sherab Tenzin Chhukha Chief Dzongkhag 17626693 stenzin@chhukha.gov. Livestock Officer bt 2 Mr. Ngawang Dorji Chhukha Chief Dzongkhag 17578941 chhukha@moe.gov.bt Education Officer 3 Mr. Dhodo Chhukha Chief Dzongkhag 77457980 dhodo@chhukha.gov.b Agriculture Officer t 4 Mr. Gopal Hingmang Chhukha Dy.Chief 17605824 ghingmang@chhukha.g Dzongkhag Health ov.bt Officer 5 Mr. Wangdi Gyelpo Chhukha Dy. Chief Planning 17647580 wgyelpo@chhukha.gov Officer .bt 6 Ms. Sonam Choden Chhukha Sr. Environment 17504282 schoden@chhukha.gov Officer .bt 7 Mr. Nagphey Chhukha Dzongkhag 77634084 nagphey@chhukha.gov Tshogdu Secretary .bt 8 Mr. Kinlay Dorji Chhukha Dy. Dzongkhag 17739127 rigdentshoki@gmail.co Tshogdu Thrizin m 9 Mr. Karma Dorji Dagana Environment 77374069 karmadorji1@dagana.g Jimba Officer ov.bt 10 Mr. Devi Charan Dagana Dzongkhag 17896844 decbhandari@dagana. Bhandari Agriculture Officer gov.bt 11 Mr. Pema Wangchuk Dagana Dzongkhag 77361166 emaoangchuk73@gma Livestock Officer il.com 12 Mr. Dorji Wangchuk Dagana Dzongkhag Health 17623121 dwangchuk@dagana.g Officer ov.bt 13 Mr. Norbu Tshering Dagana Finance Officer 17341198 norbut@dagana.gov.bt 128 14 Mr. Jamyang Dorji Dagana Dzongkhag 171760136 jdorji@dagana.gov.bt Engineer 1 15 Mr. Dhan Bdr Dagana Dy. Dzongkhag 17762445 dbgurung@dagana.gov Gurung Tshogdu Thrizin .bt 16 Mr. Tashi Gyeltshen Dagana Dzongkhag 17781551 tgyeltshen@dagana.go Tshogdu Secretary v.bt 17 Mr. Ugyen Dorji Gelephu Chief Engineer udorji@gelephuthrom. Thromde bt 18 Mr. Tshering Tashi Gelephu Chief Development ttashi@gelephuthrom. Thromde Regulatory Officer bt 19 Mr. Lhendup Phuentsholing Dy. Chief 17658514 lhendup@pcc.bt Thromde Environment Officer 20 Mr. Pelna Wangchuk Phuentsholing Planning Officer 17783401 pelnaw@pcc.bt Thromde 21 Mr. Lobzang Phuentsholing Asst. Engineer 77264713 lobzangt@pcc.bt Tshering Thromde 22 Mr. Nima Dorji Samtse Principal,Khandoth 17125425 nimadorji431@gmail.c ang Primary School om 23 Mr. Dorji Wangchuk Samtse Principal,Samtse 77219292 dorjiwangchukk@educ LSS ation.gov.bt 24 Mr. Tashi Samtse Planning Officer 17769133 tashi@samtse.gov.bt 25 Mr. Ugyen Sonam Samtse Environment 17619571 ugensonam007@gmail Officer .com 26 Ms. Sangay Wangmo Samtse Finance Officer 77652832 swangmo@samtse.gov .bt 27 Mr. Chogyal Norbu Samtse Dzongkhag 17623673 chogyelnorbu@samtse Agriculture Officer .gov.bt 28 Mr. Karma Dorji Samtse Dy. Chief Livestock 17 740 303 karmadorji@samtse.go Officer v.bt 129 29 Mr. Kinley Dorji Samtse Dzongkhag Chief 17588155 kdorji@samtse.gov.bt Engineer 30 Mr. Lakjey Samtse Dzongkhag 17659900 llakjey@samtse.gov.bt Tshogdu Secretary 31 Mr. Nima Drukpa Samtse Dzongkhag 17163811 gurungneema4069@g Tshogdu Thrizin mail.com 32 Mr. Kinzang Samtse Dy. Chief 17647889 kinzabubu81@educati Wangchuk Dzongkhag on.gov.bt Education Officer 33 Mrs. Pema Lhamo Samtse Human Resource 17708958 pemalhamo@samtse.g Officer ov.by 34 Mr. Pema Tshewang Samtse Principal, Yoeseltse 17686968 pematshewang03@ed MSS ucation.gov.bt 35 Mr. Thinley Samtse Principal, Panbari 77623276 thinleey.tobden79@ed Primary School ucation.gov.bt 36 Mr. Sonam Tshering Samtse, Forest officer 17590214 sonamtshering@moaf. Divisional gov.bt Forest 37 Mr. Chimi Dorji Sarpang Environment 17748562 chimmi802@gmail.co Officer m 38 Mr. Chimi Wangchuk Sarpang Dzongkhag 17652847 chimiw@moaf.gov.bt Agriculture Officer 39 Mr. Tshering Dendup Sarpang Dy. Chief Planning 17546464 samten806@gmail.co Officer m 40 Mr. Pemba T Sarpang Chief Dzongkhag 17589589 pembatg@moe.gov.bt Gyeltshen Education Officer 41 Mr. Tenzin Phuntsho Sarpang Finance Officer 17715496 tenzinphuntsho@sarpa ng.gov.bt 42 Mr. Dawa Pelzang Sarpang Dzongkhag Health 17623320 dpelzang@sarpang.gov Officer .bt 130 43 Mr. Tshering Sarpang Dzongkhag 17887727 tsheringtshering166@g Tshogdu Thrizin mail.com 44 Mr. Tandin Sarpang Dzongkhag 17609865 twangchuk@sarpang.g Wangchuk Tshogdu Secretary ov.bt 45 Mr. Tshendu Sarpang Asst. Dzongkhag 17320530 tshendu@moaf.gov.bt Livestock Officer 46 Mr. Tshegyal Dawa Sarpang, Prinicpal 17802737 dtshegyal1979@educa Choekhorling tion.gov.bt MS 47 Mr. Sangay Sarpang, Principal 17602444 sangay81@education.g Chuzergang P ov.bt S 48 Mr. Rinchen Dorji Sarpang, MSS Principal 17750575 richendorjismss@educ ation.gov.bt 49 Mr. Pema Rinchen Sarpang, Sr. Forest Range 17931475 pemarinchen2020@g Divisional Officer mail.com Forest 50 Dr. G S Rai ARDC, PHO 17711047 gsrai@moaf.gov.bt Samtenling 51 Mr. Dorji Wangchuk Royal Manas Sr. Forest Officer 17518551 dwang1970@gmail.co National Park m 52 Mr. Dorji Wangdi Tsirang Chief Environment 17807474 dorjiwangdi@tsirang.g Officer ov.bt 53 Mr. Dorji Gyeltshen Tsirang Dzongkhag 17612857 dorjigyeltshen@tsirang Agriculture Officer .gov.bt 54 Mr. Santa Lal Powdel Tsirang Dy. Dzongkhag 17634315 spowdel@tsirang.gov.b Tshogdu Thrizin t 55 Ms. Karma Wangmo Tsirang Sr. Planning Officer 17508179 karmawangmo@tsiran g.gov.bt 56 Mr. Kintu Tsirang Chief Engineer 17993385 kintu@tsirang.gov.bt 131 57 Mr. Karma Tsirang Dzongkhag 17691062 karma@tsirang.gov.bt Tshogdu Secretary 58 Ms. Dawa Dema Tsirang Asst. Finance 17586795 ddema@tsirang.gov.bt Officer 59 Mr. Gang Dorji Tsirang Dzongkhag Health 17666924 gangd@tsirang.gov.bt Officer Consultation on the Draft National Adaptation Plan for West Region Date: 27th October 2022 Venue: Drubchu Resort, Punakha Sl. Name Dzongkhag Designation Contact Email Address No. Number 1 Mr. Choeki Gasa Asst. Dzongkhag 17641080 choekiw@moaf.gov.bt Wangchuk Agriculture Officer 2 Mr. Tshering Gasa Environment Officer 17605489 tsheringwangchuk@ga Wangchuk sa.gov.bt 3 Ms. Dorji Wangmo Gasa Offtg. Planning tdhendup@gasa.gov.bt Officer 4 Mr. Tashi Norbu Gasa Dy. Chief 17648612 tnorbu@gasa.gov.bt Dzongkhag Health Officer 5 Mr. Kezang Gasa Dzongkhag 17278296 kezangwangchuk@gas Wangchuk Engineer a.gov.bt 6 Ms. Deki Yangzom Gasa Dzongkhag Tshogdu 17450700 dekiyangzom@gasa.go Secretary v.bt 7 Mr. Tshewang Laya, Gasa Dzongkhag Tshogdu 17405538 Thrizin 8 Rinzin Dorji JDWNP, Chief Forest Officer 17879834 rnzndorji07@gmail.co Gasa m 9 Mr. Tenzin Jamba Haa Dzongkhag Tshogdu 77212513 tenzinjamba2015@gm Thrizin ail.com 10 Mrs. Tendrel Haa Dzongkhag Tshogdu 17971172 tendrelz@haa.gov.bt Zangmo Secretary 11 Mr. Dega Nath Haa Asst. DZongkhag 17336710 dchapaigai@haa.gov.bt Chapagai Livestock Officer 12 Mr. Tashi Haa Asst. Dzongkhag 17888669 tshwangchuk@gmail.c Wangchuk Agriculture Officer om 13 Ms. Tshering Haa Assistant Finance 17552746 tchezom@haa.gov.bt Chezom Officer 132 14 Mr. Cheda Jamtsho Haa Planning Officer 17823195 cjamtsho@haa.gov.bt 15 Mr. Sonam Norbu Haa Environment Officer 77246869 snorbu@haa.gov.bt 16 Mr. Kinga Haa Asst. Dzongkhag 77413627 kinga@haa.gov.bt Health Officer 17 Mr. Sonam Yonten Haa, Forest Forest Officer 77919109 sonamy@moaf.gov.bt Division 18 Mr. Ngawang Dorji Paro Dy Chief 17698864 ndorji@paro.gov.bt Environment Officer 19 Mr. Phuntsho Tashi Paro Sr. Planning Officer 17701507 ptashi@paro.gov.bt 20 Mr. Thinley Dorji Paro Asst. Dzongkhag 17736324 tdorji@paro.gov.bt Livestock Officer 21 Ms. Choki Wangmo Paro Dzongkhag Health 17519825 chokiw@paro.gov.bt Officer 22 Mr. Tshering N Paro Chief Dzongkhag 17774454 tnpenjor@paro.gov.bt Penjor Agriculture Officer 23 Ms. Chane Zangmo Paro Chief Dzongkhag 17537688 cznagmo@paro.gov.bt Engineer 24 Mr. Chundu Paro Gup, Naga Gewog 17777363 chundutshering1984@ Tshering gmail.com 25 Mr. Phub Dorji Punakha Assistant Engineer 17655558 pdorji@punakha.gov.bt 26 Mr. Phub Tshering Punakha Environment Officer 17757873 phubt@punakha.gov.b t 27 Mr. Pema Ugyen Punakha Sr. Livestock Officer 17657993 pugyen@moaf.gov.bt 28 Mr. Chhoeda Punakha Asst. Dzongkhag 17437775 chhoeda001@gmail.co Agriculture Officer m 29 Mr. Yeshi Dorji Punakha Economic 17484505 ydorji@punakha.gov.bt Development Officer 30 Mr. Sonam Punakha Dzongkhag Tshogdu 17888883 sphuntsho@punakha.g Phuntsho Secretary ov.bt 31 Mr. Sonam Dorji Punakha Dzongkhag Tshogdu 17712848 bullpunakha288@gmai Thrizin l.com 32 Mr. Karma Dorji Thimphu Planning Officer 17700470 karmadorji@thimphuci Thromde ty.gov.bt 33 Ms. Lekzang Jayoed Thimphu Asst. Environment 17338264 ljdorji@thimphucity.go Dorji Thromde Officer v.bt 34 Mr. Tashi Tshewang NCOA, Sr. Research Officer 17542125 tashigedup@gmail.co Yusipang m 35 Ms. Sangay Om Thimphu Offtg.Environment 17714979 somthimphu@gov.bt Officer 36 Mr. Pema Tenzin Thimphu Planning Officer 17784416 ptenzin@thimphu.gov. bt 37 Mr. Kencho Wangdi Thimphu Dzongkhag Health 17614351 kwangdi@thimphu.gov Officer .bt 133 38 Mr. Sonam Zangpo Thimphu Chief Dzongkhag 17706913 sonamz@thimphu.gov. Agriculture Officer bt 39 Mr. Yonten Dorji Thimphu Dzongkhag Chief 17706534 ydorji@thimphu.gov.bt Finance Officer 40 Mr. Pema Dorji Thimphu Chief Dzongkhag 17721557 pemad@thimphu.gov. Education Officer bt 41 Mr. Tshewang Dorji Thimphu Dzongkhag Tshogdu 17752005 tshewangd@thimphu.g Secretary ov.bt 42 Mr. Gado Thimphu Dzongkhag Tshogdu 17600912 gado@thimphu.gov.bt Thrizin 43 Ms. Sonam Dema Forest Forest Officer 17500451 sdema@moaf.gov.bt Division, Wangdueph odrang Participants’ list of National Consultation National Consultation on the Draft National Adaptation Plan Date: 28th October 2022 Venue: Le Meridien, Thimphu Sl. Name Designation Agency Contact Email Address No. Number 1 Ms. Sonam Lhamo Project Manager NCWC 77871122 sonamlhamo1988@gm ail.com 2 Ms. Kesang Yangden Program Specialist WWF 17803529 kyangden@wwfbhutan .org 3 Mr. Binai Lama Program Specialist WFP 17448670 binai.lama@wfp.org 4 Ms. Dechen Yangzom Program Policy WFP 17743838 dechen.yangzom@wfp. Officer org 5 Ms. Deepika Adhikari Advocacy and Save the 17129797 deepika.adhikari@save Communication children thechildren.org Coordinator 6 Mr. Jurmey Tenzin Analyst RMA 17759186 jtenzin@rma.org.bt 7 Ms. Phuntsho Choden APO Bhutan Trust 17515400 phuntsho@bhutantrus Fund tfund.bt 8 Mr. Sonam Palgen Planning Officer MoAF 17421087 spelgen@moaf.gov.bt 134 9 Ms. Tashi Pem Country Director Helvetas Swiss 322870 tashi.Pem@helvetas.or Intercooperati g on Bhutan 10 Mr. Yeshi Dorji Head BCCI 17126062 yuldron78@gmail.com 11 Mr. Tashi Dendup Executive Director Film 17864474 filmassociationofbhuta Association of n2020@gmail.com Bhutan 12 Ms. Rinchen Zangmo Sr. Analyst Bhutan 17141875 rinzang1@bnb.bt National Bank 13 Mr. Jigme Tenzin National Technical Food and 17171199 jigme.tenzin@fao.org Coordinator Agriculture Organization 14 Ms. Karma Tshering National Program UNFA 17141248 tshering@unfpa.org Officer 15 Ms. Dorji Lhamo Offtg. Chief RUB 17637864 dorjilhamo.ovc@rub.e Planning Officer du.bt 16 Mr. Karma Wangdi Program Analyst MoH 17693294 kwangdi@health.gov.b t 17 Ms. Tenzin Choden Sr. Program Officer DDM, MoHCA 17621153 tchoden@ddm.gov.bt 18 Ms. Nedup Zangmo General Secretary Horticulture 17732688 nedup506zangmo@gm Association of ail.com Bhutan 19 Mr. Sherab Gyeltshen General Secretary Association of 17121919 gsabco15@gmail.com Bhutanese Cable Operators 20 Ms. Nedup Wangmo Executive DGM,MoEA 17596496 nwangmo@moea.gov. Geologist bt 21 Ms. Phuntsho Choden Credit Officer BDBL 17927944 phuntsho.choden@bd b.bt 22 Mr. Tshering Penjor Programme UNCDF 17991899 tshering.penjor@uncdf Specialist .org 135 23 Mr. Geert Poorteman Education UNICEF 17123771 gpoorteman@unicef.or Specialist g 24 Mr. Sangay Chophel Project Technical UNDP 17127478 sangay.chophel@undp. Officer org 25 Mr. Ram Bdr. Monger Dy. Chief Forest DoFPS, MoAF 77310882 rbmonger@gmail.com Officer 26 Ms. Tshewang Dema Assistant Association of 77371708 awbi2100@gmail.com Accountant Wood Based Industries 27 Mr. Lhendup Program UNDP 17637779 lhendup.tharchen@un Tharchen Coordinator dp.org 28 Mr. Dawa Chogyel Project Technical UNDP 17648008 dawa.chogyel@undp.o Specialist rg 29 Ms. Kuenga Choden Dy. Executive MoEA 17294831 kcdorji@moea.gov.bt Dorji Engineer 30 Mr. Jigme Wangchuk Head, PPD NEC 17955509 jwangchuk@nec.gov.bt 31 Ms. Sonam Pem Executive Director Tarayana 17638857 sonamtarayana@gmail Foundation .com 32 Ms. Roseleen Gurung Director of Tarayana 17272750 roseleengurung@gmail Programmes Foundation .com 33 Ms. Sonam Y. Rabgye Programme UNDP 17603814 Sonam.rabgye@undp.o Analyst rg 136

ANNEX 3: KEY MESSAGES FROM REGIONAL AND NATIONAL CONSULTATIONS ON THE NAP A summary of key messages from the national consultations (Thimphu) and four regional consultations (Bumthang, Trashigang, Gelephu, and Punakha) on the NAP conducted between 19-28 October 2022 is presented below. Planning and implementation: Successful adaptation requires collaboration in bottom-up and top-down approaches. For successful integration of adaptation in development planning in Bhutan, the Mainstream Reference Group (MRG) needs to be revived at national and local levels. • Collaboration. Climate change impacts all sectors and working collaboratively at all levels, from local government (LG) and districts to central levels would help avoid duplication and provide cost efficiency of investments. • Mainstreaming climate change adaptation: There was overwhelming support for enhancing mainstreaming of climate change by reviving the Mainstreaming Reference Group (MRG) at the national level. In addition, establishing Local MRGs along with capacity building would help ensure integration of Gender, Environment, Climate, Disaster and Poverty (GECDP) concerns into development planning at both central and local levels. Systems thinking and a coherent and coordinated approach is required for cost-effective, and efficient implementation of adaptation and development priorities. • Cost-effective and efficient adaptation: integrating climate change into development plans at both central and local level would help approach adaptation systematically, cost effectively and through an integrated approach. An integrated, coherent, and collaborative approach can minimise duplication and wastage of resources for adaptation. • Integrated approach: the ‘whole of society’ approach in climate change adaptation planning and implementation needs to be continued. This would help ensure climate change is approached through an integrated approach. • System thinking and no regret action: The increasing demand for climate resilient infrastructure calls for better planning through ‘system thinking’ approach. A ‘whole of society’ approach in climate change adaptation planning and implementation needs to be continued. Better planning of roads and settlements to avoid risky places, design of roads, supply, and sanitation infrastructures, build back better (replacement) and operation and maintenance of infrastructure (aimed at fast recovery) would help ensure lives, livelihoods and livelihood assets are protected. Maladaptation can be avoided through collaboration, coordination, and integrated approaches and awareness. • Avoiding unintended consequences: Avoiding maladaptation should also be given priority when planning for improving access to water. • Coordination and information to avoid maladaptation. Integrated approach to planning with enhanced coordination and cooperation and by considering the best available information is necessary to avoid maladaptation. 137 • Awareness and capacity enhancement: Capacity development at all levels from LG to districts, central agencies, academia, private sector and CSOs would yield better results and avoid maladaptation. • False sense of security from adaptation. Placement of Early Warning Systems should not be a pretext to continue investments in hazard-prone areas as these can lead to maladaptation. In addition to addressing adverse impacts of climate change take advantage of any positive benefits from climate change to improve livelihoods and resilience. • Opportunities from positive impacts: While climate change will bring about largely adverse impacts, adaptation interventions should also respond to any positive impacts that may arise such as increase in potential crop growing areas. • Climate resilient varieties for agriculture: Developing and promoting climate resilient varieties of poultry, small livestock and cattle would provide alternative sources of livelihood. Research at local level in priority areas such as water resources and ecosystems is essential to make informed decisions and adaptation plans. • Informed decision making: Water availability is a critical issue and adequate research should be carried out to make informed decisions in planning interventions. Climate resilient infrastructure for irrigation and drinking water should be based on water discharge analyses. • Urgent studies: Research on role of forests, spring sheds, watersheds and ground water in water availability needs to be urgently studied. Implementation approaches and synergies: Ecosystem based approaches is essential for adapting to climate change impacts on water resources. Ecosystem based approaches also means ensuring minimal environmental impact from adaptation interventions. • Ecosystem-based approach: spring-shed conservation can be effective for drying of springs. Restoration of wetlands and lakes/ponds would help ensure storage of water and slow recharge of underground aquifers. • Environmental impacts of adaptation actions: Maintain environmental flow such as water for wildlife when enhancing irrigation and drinking to avoid unintended consequences. Infrastructure development and resilient human settlements should use ecosystem-based approaches and “green infrastructure” to ensure synergistic benefits for liveable and resilient human settlements. • Green infrastructure for urban and rural resilience: ‘Green infrastructure’ such as green open spaces and critical watersheds would be required going forward to make our towns and villages liveable, climate resilient and beautiful. • Build better forward: Going forward, designing, and implementing climate resilient infrastructures- roads, civic amenities, hospitals, schools would help save lives, livelihoods, and livelihood assets. Disaster risk management and early warning systems are essential and should be a priority as climate induced disasters are becoming more frequent. 138 • Disaster risk management: Climate induced disasters such as flash floods, landslides, windstorms, floods are becoming more frequent. Further the rapid pace of our socio-economic development is adding to the pressures. Given this disaster risk reduction is essential for climate change adaptation. • Early warning systems: continue investment in Early Warning System (EWS) and weather forecasts improvements to save lives and livelihood assets. However, EWS should not however be a pretext to continue investments in hazard-prone areas. Implementation/financing: Clear guidance and information on climate financing including availability and allocation is required for successful integration and mainstreaming of adaptation or mitigation. • Funding for additional adaptation vs business-as-usual development: Clear guidance and information on resource availability and allocation is needed when mainstreaming climate change at different levels. Diversification and innovative sources of financing at national to local levels as well as in financial services and private sector can enhance climate resilience and financing. • Alignment across financial, development and climate sectors: Alignment with ongoing national initiatives such as 21st Century Economic Roadmap and Green Financing Guidelines, RMA, the 21st century economic roadmap linkage and the 13FYP. The Green Taxonomy in the Green Financing Guidelines of RMA is created to support implementation of climate change mitigation and adaptation actions through financial institutes and there should be alignment between the RMA-led initiative and the NAP. • Payment for ecosystem services (PES): proper education/awareness for watershed/spring-shed management is required to ensure continuation and sustainability of PES to incentivise natural resources stewardship by local communities. • Achieving self- sufficiency critical to achieving climate resilience. Investments in community- based micro- and pico-hydro power generation would help achieve climate resilience by diversifying from large and medium hydro. Key stakeholders, their strengths and capacity needs: There is need for greater awareness and capacity building for climate change and integration with development at local level. • Local level capacity building is needed: Climate change impacts hit the local level the hardest. The demand for climate change adaptation therefore is more there and focus on addressing capacity needs of LG staff. • Awareness and capacity enhancement is required at all level and sectors: investment in capacity development at all levels- from LG to Districts to Central agencies, academia, private sector, CSOs would yield better results and avoid maladaptation. • Factoring climate change at local levels: capacity building at local level would help enhance skills to better understand vulnerabilities at local level, prepare communities and approach local development through factoring climate change. 139 It is important to identify and engage appropriately with key stakeholders based on their roles, knowledge, experience, and capacity. Key stakeholders can include the right technical experts, community elders and leaders, the private sector and civil society. • Applying the right skills: Infrastructure for most local level investment is designed by district engineers, but capacity gaps exist with engineers about climate resilient infrastructures. Guidelines for climate resilient infrastructure development and training on the use of the guidelines would ensure local infrastructure are climate proofed. • Using local and traditional indigenous knowledge. Village elders and tshogpas are keepers of local and traditional indigenous knowledge and are key stakeholders for climate adaptation planning and implementation. These critical traditional and indigenous knowledge and autonomous adaptation skills should also be recorded and transferred. • Private sector: Private sector involvement is also important in climate change adaptation planning and implementation and their participation should be enhanced. The upcoming Green Financing Guidelines from RMA would help in this regard. • Role of civil society: Civil society can be partners in delivery of climate actions to vulnerable groups and local level. In addition, CSOs also play an important role in monitoring implementation of adaptation by public institutions at all levels. Education, awareness, and advocacy is a continuous process and should reach out to as many individuals as possible in society and the outreach should start early and with the right information. • Individual behaviour and actions: Ultimately, it is individual responsibility and behaviour change that can lead to collective and effective change. Outreach and advocacy are necessary on a continuous basis to effect adequate cooperation in climate action and other related local priorities such as waste management. • Start early, start right: Integrating climate change in school level curriculum would help maintain continuity on climate awareness and knowledge between school education and tertiary education. There is a concern that recent transformation initiatives might reduce prioritise economic plans over local impacts on environment and climate change impacts. Monitoring and evaluation A robust Monitoring and Evaluation of adaptation is essential to ensure effective implementation of the NAP, and to avoid maladaptation. • Precaution benefits: A robust monitoring and evaluation (M&E) system for adaptation and to assess national, sectoral development plans and local development plans is imperative to track resilience and to avoid maladaptation and ill effects of development. • Iterative NAPs: The M&E system for adaptation is also needed to clearly reflect achievements and gaps in NAP implementation so subsequent NAPs can be enhanced. 140 PART II: DETAILED PRIORITIES AND NEEDS FOR ADAPTATION 141 DETAILED ADAPTATION PRIORITIES 1. WATER The vulnerability of water resources is identified as one of the major climate risks in Bhutan and will affect all sectors, from food production, energy, human settlements, and the industry. The priorities in the water sector are therefore cross cutting across many sectors and stakeholder groups. The adaptation priorities in water sector take a holistic approach including nature-based solutions. The interventions from securing and managing natural sources of water to ensuring optimal use and management of water for drinking. Ensuring efficient and sustainable use of water for agriculture and other key infrastructure investments is also included for the water sector to ensure an integrated approach to water management. The management of water discharge after consumption for human needs is covered in the priorities for human settlements. The strengthening of institutional capacity for water management including enhancing existing institutions like water user groups, strengthening capacity of key stakeholders and continuing research is essential to support a continuous and iterative adaptation. Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term Key performance Indicator Lead Collaborating Est Cost Objective Outcome (0-5 years) activities (KPI) Agency Partner (USD) (5-15 years) 1 Improve Healthy and Ecosystem based Assessment of wetlands, Effective Number of wetlands, MoENR LGs/ MoIT/ 500,000 natural resilient adaptation to watersheds and spring implementation watersheds and spring MoICE capacity for functioning ensure natural sheds and development and of water sheds assessed and infiltration, ecosystem capacity for water implementation of legislation and managed. water for water infiltration and intervention measures. IWRM. Relevant recharge, services. recharge through; Integrating of existing Sustainable CSOs (Loden and water (i) Ecosystem watershed management management of Number of community Foundn.) buffer for restoration. interventions into Local wetlands, awareness on IWRM and prevention (ii) Watershed Area Plans/settlement plans watershed, and water legislations of fast runoff management (iii) and its implementation spring sheds. conducted (reports on and erosion. Promotion of implementation) traditional Restoration of existing Conduct knowledge and water sources. watershed modelling. 142 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term Key performance Indicator Lead Collaborating Est Cost Objective Outcome (0-5 years) activities (KPI) Agency Partner (USD) (5-15 years) practices in water Implementation of Monitor conservation. Ecosystem based infiltration, Adaptation water buffers, fast runoff, and erosion. Strengthen and Strengthen and upscale PES. Number of PES schemes MoENR LGs 100,000 upscale PES. upscaled Review PES framework and field guide 2 Optimal use Robust water River basin Conduct feasibility studies Build emergency Number of feasibility MoENR NCHM/ LGs/ 62,000 of available resources planning. to build emergency storage, storage, studies conducted to build MoICE, MoIT water planning and bypasses, and controlled bypasses and emergency storage, discharge monitoring releases from glacial lakes. controlled bypasses, and controlled system. releases from releases from glacial lakes. River basin management glacial lakes if and planning for basin found feasible. Number of river basin optimization. management plans Monitoring and prepared and implemented evaluation of river basin management plan Promotion of Enhance research and No. of publications on water MoENR RUB, MoIT, 23,500 water efficient development on water efficient technologies MoAL or LGs technologies efficient technologies. Number of advocacy Conduct advocacy on water programs conducted efficient technologies 143 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term Key performance Indicator Lead Collaborating Est Cost Objective Outcome (0-5 years) activities (KPI) Agency Partner (USD) (5-15 years) 3 Ensuring Improved Ensuring proper Assessing the efficiency of Explore and Households/Institutions MoIT, MoH, LGs, 12.3 million climate access to safe monitoring, existing water treatment improve water with safe drinking water. MoH MoENR resilient drinking planning and facilities and water supply treatment and supply of water. supply of drinking network systems. supply network Water supply duration and safe drinking water systems with quality improved. Explore alternative water OYE water under proper supply technologies. Number of WSPs climate management strengthened and change. mechanisms. Expand the implementation implemented. of Water Safety Plans Explore and (WSPs) and proper water Number of awareness build additional supply systems with program conducted. storage adequate design. facilities. Number of officials trained Awareness programs for on plumbing water efficient water use. management and other related skills. Provide training on plumbing water Operation and maintenance management and other guideline and standard related skills. published Develop operation and maintenance guideline and standard Harvesting Exploring volume of Integrating Assessment guide for MoH, MoENR 0.2 million rainwater/fog for rainwater generated at rainwater/fog integration of holistic use of MoIT, domestic use water stressed areas for harvesting water resources developed RUB Relevant domestic use. structures into CSOs buildings and (Tarayana Developing assessment other amenities etc) guide for integration of 144 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term Key performance Indicator Lead Collaborating Est Cost Objective Outcome (0-5 years) activities (KPI) Agency Partner (USD) (5-15 years) holistic use of water resources Reduction of Non- Study of NRW in critical Implementation % of NWR reduced in MoIT LGs, MoENR 6.5 million Revenue Water areas. of Thromdes losses improvements to reduce NRW. Strengthen Strengthening laboratory Strengthening No. of additional water MoH MoIT, LGs, drinking water services to test and monitor water quality quality parameters included MoENR quality monitoring water quality and monitoring in monitoring. and surveillance information systems Integrated water quality and monitoring system established. # of water quality assessment reports published ISO certification ascertained Strengthen Establishment of Functional real time water MoIT, LGs, MOENR 4 million database/inventory a real time monitoring systems in place MoH on drinking water water supply supply schemes monitoring system 4 Enhance Improved ● Improve planning, Climate proofing of the Climate proofing Number of climate proof DoA LG, CSOs 70 million water use resilience of designing and irrigation facilities of the irrigation irrigation schemes efficiency and irrigation implementation of (HDPE/concrete) facilities developed (45 schemes) climate resilient promote infrastructure (HDPE/concrete) irrigation sustainable 145 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term Key performance Indicator Lead Collaborating Est Cost Objective Outcome (0-5 years) activities (KPI) Agency Partner (USD) (5-15 years) management infrastructures of water and systems resources for agriculture ● Exploring alternative Number of lift irrigation DoA LG means of irrigation (solar system initiated pumps and lift irrigation) Strengthen Development of irrigation Conduct Database on irrigation MoAL NCHM database/inventory schemes database system modelling and systems developed. on irrigation simulations of schemes discharge for Number of discharge proposed modelling and simulation irrigation conducted for proposed schemes irrigation schemes 5 Strengthen Robust water Strengthening Review and strengthen Monitoring and Number of functional WUAs MoENR Relevant CSOs 18,000 institutional resources Water User WUAs. evaluation of that are formally registered. capacity for planning and Associations WUAs. (Tarayana, water monitoring (WUAs). Implementation of WUA Bhutan Toilet, management system. guidelines. OYE, OPD) Number of trainings for Training on IWRM, WUAs conducted formation of WUA and legalization, (management, accounting, etc.). Strengthening Research on water resource Initiate use of Number of studies on MoENR NCHM/RUB 25,400 research on water management including groundwater or groundwater resources resource groundwater resources and discontinue conducted management soil moisture based on including 146 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term Key performance Indicator Lead Collaborating Est Cost Objective Outcome (0-5 years) activities (KPI) Agency Partner (USD) (5-15 years) groundwater Enhance hydrological and findings from Real time information on resources. groundwater modelling. the study. soil moisture in place 92,000 Carry out studies on the options for household/institution level 16,000 rainwater harvesting or creating additional water storage capacity. Assess climate risk on water intensive industries (168 75,000 water intensive industries as of 2022) Enhancing capacity Capacity development on Capacity No. of officials trained on MoIT, MoICE, MoH, 135,000 of key stakeholders climate resilient water development on climate resilient MoAL, Relevant CSOs in managing the infrastructures climate resilient infrastructure design and impacts of climate water construction. change on water infrastructures No. of officials trained on Training onsite inspection, aerial survey using drones Aerial survey using Drones and mapping using GIS Capacity development of No. of officials trained in FEMD, Relevant CSOs 150,000 flood and storm water assessment and drafting of DES, management from river flood and stormwater (MoIT) flooding and urban floods. management Capacity development to Information Number of officials trained NCHM Relevant CSOs generate forecast disseminated on to generate forecast timely basis to 147 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term Key performance Indicator Lead Collaborating Est Cost Objective Outcome (0-5 years) activities (KPI) Agency Partner (USD) (5-15 years) information at sub-basin all sectors/ information at sub-basin level so that early warning. communities. level. information is disseminated A robust real to A Real to near real time on timely basis to all near real time weather and water sectors/communities. information availability information dissemination dissemination system in at suitable temporal (Daily system with place. to seasonal) and spatial customizable to (from river basin to sub- requirements of catchment) scale. different sectors. Build capacity for decision Continuous No. of officials trained DoR, MoIT Relevant CSOs making and management of updates for critical communication technology and infrastructure, through refresher development of Road Asset training. Management System (RAMS), Develop Decision Support System, GIS and other tools 148 2. AGRICULTURE AND LIVESTOCK Agriculture and livestock sector is an important sector for Bhutan with 51% of the population employed in agriculture and contributing about 17% of GDP. While food security is a key national priority, climate change impacts such as changes in water availability, increasing pests presents risks to the sector. The adaptation priorities for both agriculture and livestock are grouped in interventions for securing the resource base, managing losses from climate impacts and emerging threats, and enhancing resilience in food production. The interventions include integrated landscape approaches including sustainable land management, appropriate technologies, and management practices. The agriculture and livestock sector presents strong synergies for climate mitigation trough landscape approaches such as agroforestry, sustainable soil and land management, promotion of organic and good agricultural management practices. The role of the private sector is identified in several areas of food production, market access, supply chain for the sector and risk management. Opportunities for integration of gender issues through appropriate technologies and engagement of women’s groups are also identified. Recent lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic such as risks in supply chain, food banking and risk of zoonotic events have also been integrated. Targeted training at sector and the decentralised level is also required for enhanced risk assessments and adaptation implementation. Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term activities Key performance Lead Collaborating Est. cost Objective Outcome (0-5 yrs) (5-15 yrs) Indicator (KPI) agency (USD) Agency 1 Securing the Reduced Efficient Identify and set up Continue research and Establish four DoL NLCS/ DoFPS/ 40,000 natural vulnerability utilization of permanent research plots monitoring permanent DoA/ DoLGDM resource base of livestock alpine rangeland to study the impact of research plots in for livestock farmers and climate change on diversity four regions for grazing feed development of of grasses in rangeland long term and fodder agroforestry research and sources systems for Improve alpine rangeland monitoring. livestock governance system 1 rangeland management guideline developed Sustainable management Sustainable management Restoration and DoL NLCS/ DoFPS/ 2,000,000 and utilization of alpine and utilization of alpine maintenance of NHRDC/ NRDCAN rangeland resources rangeland resources 10,000 acres of 149 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term activities Key performance Lead Collaborating Est. cost Objective Outcome (0-5 yrs) (5-15 yrs) Indicator (KPI) agency (USD) Agency alpine rangeland pastures Mapping and identification Indigenous grass DoL DoFPS/ NHRDC/ 140,000 and assessment, of identified, and NRDCAN/ NLCS indigenous forage/grass rangeland species pastures mapped for 12 highland Dzongkhags Enhanced Promote resilient fodder Continue and upscale One million DoL NRDCAN/ DoFPS 3,000,000 availability of tree plantation. resilient fodder tree fodder trees feeding plantation planted (9174 resources acres x109 through agro- trees/ac) Promote production of forestry system local feed raw materials Expand acreage for raw Reduced feed material production dependence on imported feed raw materials Promote pasture under Promote pasture under 400 acres of DoL DoA/ NRDCAN/ 133,000 agro-forestry system agro-forestry system pasture under RLDCs/ DoFPS (orchard, silvo pastoral) (orchard, silvo pastoral) orchard/forest system developed (400 x 25,000) Upscale usage of crop Upscale usage of crop 2,000,000 MT of DoL DoA/ NRDCAN/ 130,000 residues through residues through forage and crop RLDCs enrichment and fodder enrichment and fodder residues enriched conservation conservation and conserved 150 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term activities Key performance Lead Collaborating Est. cost Objective Outcome (0-5 yrs) (5-15 yrs) Indicator (KPI) agency (USD) Agency 2 Enhancing Enhanced Conservation Conservation and Continue program for 2 numbers of DoL NPRDC/ NBC 200,000 resilience and adaptive and promotion development of native Conservation and native poultry livestock capacity of of climate poultry breeds development of native strain selected production livestock resilient native poultry breeds through farmers and livestock breeds appropriate the livestock technologies sector by and increasing management sustainable practices production Conservation and Continue Conservation and 1 native piggery DoL NPiRDC/ NBC 200,000 development of native development of native conservation piggery breeds piggery breeds farm established Development of suitable 2 suitable DoL NDRDC 100,000 Bhutanese cattle breed livestock breeds through cross breeding developed Promotion of advanced 200 viable DoL NDRDC 100,000 livestock reproductive embryos technologies (Sex sorted AI, transferred. ET,) for enhanced dairy productivity 5,000 progenies born from sex sorted semen AI Promote climate Promote Effective EMT DoL DLS/ NPRDC/ 350,000 smart livestock Microorganism Technology implemented in NPiRDC/ NRDCAN, farming (EMT) in poultry and 200 poultry and practices piggery farms 150 semi 151 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term activities Key performance Lead Collaborating Est. cost Objective Outcome (0-5 yrs) (5-15 yrs) Indicator (KPI) agency (USD) Agency through gender- commercial Farmer groups and PWD- piggery farms and cooperatives, friendly farm- private sector level technologies. Fencing on pastureland to 1,000 acres of DoL DoFPS/ DoA/ $1m reduce incidence of wildlife pastureland e- NRDCAN, depredation on livestock fenced Farmer groups and cooperatives, private sector Improve micro-climate Solar fans, DoL Farmer groups 700,000 conditions in animal sheds sprinklers, and and cooperatives, lighting in 5 farms private sector, in sub-tropical relevant CSOs like region, solar Loden and heating, and Tarayana lighting system in 5 temperate farms Expand apiculture for Expand apiculture for 5,000 free flow DoL NHRDC/ DLS/ DoA 2,000,000 boosting honey production boosting honey production honey hives and enhance crop and enhance crop promoted on cost Farmer groups productivity productivity sharing basis and cooperatives, private sector, relevant CSOs like Loden and Tarayana 152 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term activities Key performance Lead Collaborating Est. cost Objective Outcome (0-5 yrs) (5-15 yrs) Indicator (KPI) agency (USD) Agency Water efficient and low- 100 numbers of DoL NRDCAN/ NHRDC, 300,000 cost fodder production low-cost during lean season hydroponic Farmer groups (hydroponics) facilities and cooperatives, established private sector, relevant CSOs like Loden and Tarayana Promote heat and cold Identify and DoL NRDCAN 30,000 resistant fodder varieties introduce 3 numbers of heat and cold resistant fodder species Adopt labour saving devices Scale up labour saving 200 numbers of DoL DLS 200,000 and equipment to reduce devices and equipment to chaff cutter, drudgery on women and reduce drudgery on women automatic Farmer groups vulnerable groups and vulnerable groups. feeding and and cooperatives, milking systems private sector, installed in relevant CSOs like women led Loden and household Tarayana Efficient Expand community-based Develop and DoL NRDCRLF/ DoFPS 50,000 utilisation of capture fisheries. hand-over two (2) natural water community-based bodies and land capture fisheries resources to to the boost fish communities production 153 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term activities Key performance Lead Collaborating Est. cost Objective Outcome (0-5 yrs) (5-15 yrs) Indicator (KPI) agency (USD) Agency Explore cage culture Develop DoL NRDCRLF/ DHI/ 100,000 fisheries in inland water management DGPC/ DoFPS bodies and hydropower plan and pilot dams two (2) cage fisheries in Hydropower dams Explore and introduce low- Explore and introduce low- Pilot and DoL NRDCAN/ RLDC 133,000 cost fish production cost fish production establish 5 technologies (aquaponics) technologies (aquaponics) aquaponic/biofloc fish production facilities Utilization of GIS application for livestock 2 nos. (cattle and DoL NHRDC/ DLS 100,000 spatial development (to map yak) of migratory information, migratory cattle and yak herds mapped remote sensing, herds) and ICT for delivery of efficient and effective livestock services Digitalization to generate Digitalization to generate Realtime DoL 50,000 real time data for informed real time data for informed meteorological decision making decision making data recording instituted in livestock farms 154 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term activities Key performance Lead Collaborating Est. cost Objective Outcome (0-5 yrs) (5-15 yrs) Indicator (KPI) agency (USD) Agency 3 Managing Reduced Strengthen Strengthen capacity of Strengthen capacity of DoL 3,000,000 livestock losses vulnerability surveillance and livestock research centres livestock research centres from climate of livestock forecasting and laboratories to address and laboratories to address change impacts farmers system for emerging threats from emerging threats from and emerging against losses prevention and climate change impacts climate change impacts threats from climate control of change emerging animal impacts diseases and threats under climate change Institute recording and Develop, DoL DLS 33,000 reporting system on sensitize, and livestock lost due to climate implement induced extremes reporting system on livestock lost due to climate extremes Improve farm biosecurity Awareness Implement farm DoL NCAH/ BAFRA 33,000 bio security SOPs in 20 livestock farms and 30 commercial poultry and piggery farms Strengthen transboundary Improve the DoL NCAH 10,000 animal disease reporting existing TADS and management system 155 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term activities Key performance Lead Collaborating Est. cost Objective Outcome (0-5 yrs) (5-15 yrs) Indicator (KPI) agency (USD) Agency Initiate herd health Implement herd DoL NCAH/ RLDCs 50,000 management health management in 100 commercial livestock farms Promote and popularize Awareness Identify, DoL NCAH/ RLDCs 33,000 traditional knowledge and promote, and practices for safe and prescribe 10 sustainable livestock ethno-veterinary production practices 4 Enhance water Improved ● Improve Promote adoption of micro Promote adoption of micro Number of HH DoA LG $5m use efficiency resilience of planning, irrigation (Drip, sprinkler) irrigation (Drip, sprinkler) adopting micro- and promote irrigation designing and by increasing accessibility by increasing accessibility irrigation systems Farmer groups implementation and cooperatives, sustainable infrastructure to farmers through simple, to farmers through simple, (100 households of climate private sector, management of resilient affordable, and smart affordable, and smart every year) water technology technology relevant CSOs like irrigation resources for systems at Loden, Tarayana, agriculture farm level RSSC Rehabilitation of the Number of DoA LG traditional irrigation system irrigation system to reduce water loss rehabilitated (20 through climate proof major irrigation structures integration schemes) In-situ water harvesting - Number of water- DoA LG diverting, inducing, harvesting collecting, storing, and structures conserving local surface constructed (25 runoff, spring water and structures, i.e 5 156 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term activities Key performance Lead Collaborating Est. cost Objective Outcome (0-5 yrs) (5-15 yrs) Indicator (KPI) agency (USD) Agency rainwater for agriculture structures every production year) Explore tail water Length of management and usage. drainage system constructed for tail water management 5 Pursue an Increased Promote and Improve soil carbon, health -Area brought DoA/NBC LG $60m integrated resilience of upscale and fertility through under improved landscape the land and sustainable land adoption of improved and soil carbon (2,000 approach for ecosystem management integrated soil nutrient ha) sustainable soil for food (SLM) programs management practices and land production through -No. of soil health management and nutrition enhanced assessment for agriculture security technologies completed (10 No) Residue management Area under mulch DoA LG including bio-degradable (10,000 ha) mulching Agriculture land Area brought DoA LG development under sustainable land management (10,000 ha) Mapping of degraded Mapping of degraded Mapping DoA NLC, LG areas, and soil erosion areas, and soil erosion completed by 2026 157 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term activities Key performance Lead Collaborating Est. cost Objective Outcome (0-5 yrs) (5-15 yrs) Indicator (KPI) agency (USD) Agency Establish soil organic DOA NSSC, LG carbon monitoring, accounting, and reporting under different crop land Development of Promote Bhutan Good Promote Bhutan Good No of HH DoA DAMC, BCCI, integrated Agriculture Practices (GAP) Agriculture Practices (GAP) adopting Bhutan BAFRA, agriculture and GMP and GMP GAP (5,000 hh) landscape Farmer groups system and cooperatives, approach private sector, Strengthen Bhutan GAP Continue Bhutan GAP No of Bhutan GAP DoA DAMC, BCCI, certification process certification process certified products BAFRA, DCSI, LG (10 products) Farmer groups, cooperatives, private sector Promote perennial crop Promote perennial crop Area under DoA DoL, DoFPS, LG (fruits & plantation crops (fruits & plantation crops perennial crops production to enhance production to enhance (15,000 ha) Farmer groups, small holder farm income small holder farm income cooperatives, and improve climate and improve climate private sector resilience production resilience production system system 6 Managing food Reduced Institute pest Strengthen pest Pest surveillance DoA WFP, IFAD, $2m prodcution vulnerability surveillance surveillance system and system losses from of farmers systems and diagnostic facilities strengthened and climate change against losses strengthen functional by impacts and from climate 2026 158 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term activities Key performance Lead Collaborating Est. cost Objective Outcome (0-5 yrs) (5-15 yrs) Indicator (KPI) agency (USD) Agency emerging change diagnostic Lab facilities threats impacts facilities strengthened Develop and Promote No of IPM DoA LG Integrated Pest technologies Management technologies promoted (10 nos.) Promote Develop efficient post- No of post- DAMC, DoA, DoFPS, DoL, $4m sustainable harvest infrastructures and harvest MOF, BCCI, practices and distribution system. infrastructures BAFRA, innovative and distribution solutions to system LG, reduce crop established. (15 Private sector and loss, food waste Nos) financial institutes and improve post-harvest technologies through improved value chain development to enhance resilience of farmers Promote cold storage No of cold DAMC facilities for agriculture storage facilities products established (10 Nos, Capacity 100-300 MT) 159 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term activities Key performance Lead Collaborating Est. cost Objective Outcome (0-5 yrs) (5-15 yrs) Indicator (KPI) agency (USD) Agency Establish efficient cold Establish efficient cold Cold chain and BLDCL RLDC/FCBL/ DoL, chain facilities at strategic chain facilities at strategic storage facilities locations for livestock locations at 3 strategic products locations Develop and promote local No of local DAMC - do- agro-diversity and products knowledge-based products promoted (10 products) Assessment of food/crop Assessment DoA LG losses in the food value report published chain (harvest, storage, by 2026 transportation, consumption) Institute climate Initiate and promote We suggest policies Compensation MoAL DOFPS/ DLS/ $4m risk insurance of livestock developed. system management for against wildlife depredation introduced and MOF/ Financial food production and extreme climate implemented institutes, through conditions Environment and insurance and thematic group. compensation schemes covering climate change impacts Develop safety nets Crop insurance MoAL MOF/ Financial (example: Crop insurance schemes initiated institutes, LG and credit facilities) to cope by 2026 160 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term activities Key performance Lead Collaborating Est. cost Objective Outcome (0-5 yrs) (5-15 yrs) Indicator (KPI) agency (USD) Agency during extreme weather events 7 Enhancing Enhanced Ensure Adopt innovative, gender Gender friendly -DoA LG, NCWC $1.5m resilience and sustainable women’s/ responsive technologies for technologies food practices and Vulnerable smart climate resilient generated (20 Farmer groups, production innovative group access to farming technologies) cooperatives, through solutions for gender friendly private sector, appropriate food technologies at relevant CSOs like technologies production farm level. Loden, Tarayana, and and BAOWE, BNEW, management management RENEW practices Explore, Inventory/improve and Inventory/improve and No of land races DoA CGIAR institutes, $2m develop, and promote climate resilient promote climate resilient screened (30 nos) LG promote climate indigenous varieties to indigenous varieties to resilient crop adapt to climate change adapt to climate change varieties and impacts impacts climate smart technologies to improve sustainable production systems Generate/develop/breeding Generate/develop/breeding No of heat, DoA LG and promote climate and promote climate drought, cold resilient crop varieties resilient crop varieties tolerant, pest and disease resistant varieties 161 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term activities Key performance Lead Collaborating Est. cost Objective Outcome (0-5 yrs) (5-15 yrs) Indicator (KPI) agency (USD) Agency promoted (50 nos.) Increase cropping intensity Increase cropping intensity No of protected DoA LG through intensive climate through intensive climate structures smart cultivation systems smart cultivation systems constructed (greenhouse, hydroponics, (greenhouse, hydroponics, (15,000 nos.) aeroponics, vertical aeroponics, vertical farming) farming) Generate/develop and Generate/develop and Area under nutri- DoA LG, NBC promote and diversify promote and diversify dense cereals nutri-dense crop varieties nutri-dense crop varieties (increase by 3000 ha) Promote energy efficient Promote energy efficient No of gender DoA NCWC, Farmer and gender friendly farm and gender friendly farm friendly farm groups, machineries machineries machineries cooperatives, (1000nos) private sector, relevant CSOs like Loden, Tarayana, BAOWE, BNEW, RENEW 8 Conduct Targeted and Assess capacity Conduct capacity needs Needs DOL NEC $0.5m targeted enhanced needs for assessment (HR, assessment training at capacity adaptation infrastructure & completed Relevant CSOs like sector and building for planning and equipment) of relevant Tarayana, decentralized adaptation implementation government institutions, level for for food SOEs and communities for enhanced security climate change adaptation. assessment and 162 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term activities Key performance Lead Collaborating Est. cost Objective Outcome (0-5 yrs) (5-15 yrs) Indicator (KPI) agency (USD) Agency implementation of adaptation Targeted Capacity building of No of training DoA NEC, RUB $2m training on technical officials on conducted impacts of climate change impact on (15trainings Relevant CSOs climate change agriculture productivity and conducted) in food food security - including production at farm household models for sectoral to strong decision making community levels. Capacity building of Capacity building of 250 staff and 205 DOL NEC livestock field staff and livestock field staff and farmers including farmers farmers LGs trained on various climate change adaptive measures 163 3. FORESTS AND BIODIVERSITY Bhutan’s forests cover most of the country’s land area (70.77%) and is a major factor in Bhutan achieving carbon neutral status. The forests are also a source for natural resources such as timber, non-wood forest products and other ecosystem services including as a store for fresh water. Furthermore, the different forests provide a variety of habitats for the rich biodiversity of Bhutan. Climate change poses great risk to forests and biodiversity, through potential changes in habitats and ecosystem functions. The increasing risks of forest fires due to drier and warmer winters not only threaten biodiversity but could also jeopardise Bhutan’s carbon sinks. The adaptation priorities for forests and biodiversity are developed in a highly synergistic approach and contributes to mitigation (carbon sink management) in line with the National REDD+ Strategy (NRS), biodiversity conservation in line with the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP), and disaster risk management. The interventions also aim to engage communities, private sector, and vulnerable groups as partners in management of the natural resources through people-centric programs. Opportunities to integrate gender responsive measures have also been included to the extent known and possible. The adaptation priorities address the great risk from forest fires, enhancing the assessment and monitoring of biodiversity under climate change, along with restoring and managing important areas and components of biodiversity in Bhutan. Invasive alien species and other emerging risks like zoonosis and spread of pest and diseases have also been identified in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Key interventions also include management of forest and biodiversity through scientific sustainable management and community engagement. Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term activities Key performance Lead Collaborating Est. Cost Objective Outcome (0-5 years) (5-15 years) Indicator (KPI) Agency Partner (USD) 1 Strengthen Minimized Develop and implement Develop and Continue implementation Number of plans DoFPS DoLGDM, LG, 1 M (ST) forest fire risk of forest fire management implement the forest of the plan developed, and First 0.5 M (MT) managemen fire strategies and plans. fire management strategies responders t in Bhutan strategy and plans implemented NGOs, Local through communities, participator y and consultative approach 164 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term activities Key performance Lead Collaborating Est. Cost Objective Outcome (0-5 years) (5-15 years) Indicator (KPI) Agency Partner (USD) Strengthen response Conduct Capacity Conduct periodic training Number of people DoFPS DoLGDM First 0.4 M (ST) capability on forest fire Need Assessment and on forest fire trained in forest fire responders 0.5 M (MT) management build capacity. management for multi management stakeholders Pvt sector service & technology providers Upscale and Implement advance early Response time and DoFPS Dzongkags, 0.8 M (ST) strengthen the warning systems effectiveness DoLGDM Dzongkhag level fire 0.5M (MT) management interventions. Integrate Dzongkhag and local level fire management plans Strengthen forest fire Strengthen support for Response time and DoFPS DECC, 1.5 M (ST) surveillance and large fires and IFCG effectiveness DoLGDM, LG, 3 M (MT) communication First system (including responders, forest fire suppression Local equipment) communities Enhance awareness on Develop awareness Carry out awareness Number of people DoFPS NEC, 0.05 M (ST) forest fire management. program/ materials campaigns made aware on forest DoLGDM, LG, 0.02 M (MT) and carry out fire and its impact awareness Media groups Strengthen adaptive Manage fuel load Manage fuel load Area brought under DoFPS NRDCL, Local 0.25 M (ST) forest fire management adaptive forest fire Communities, 0.3 M (MT) management Private Sector 165 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term activities Key performance Lead Collaborating Est. Cost Objective Outcome (0-5 years) (5-15 years) Indicator (KPI) Agency Partner (USD) Carry out post fire Carry out post fire habitat DoFPS NRDCL, Local 0.5 M (ST) habitat management management Communities, 0.5 M (MT) Private Sector 2 Enhance Updated Carry out long term Develop capacity to Continue support to Number of people DoFPS RUB, 0.10 M (ST) assessment information monitoring of monitor biodiversity implementation of trained in biodiversity and on biodiversity and and support biodiversity monitoring monitoring and robust monitoring Biodiversity habitats implementation of protocol biodiversity database 0.20 M (MT) of Bhutan Biodiversity system established biodiversity Monitoring Protocol Strengthen existing Updating the revamped DoFPS GovTech 0.05 M (ST) database systems. database system 0.05 M (MT) Changes in Build capacity to Build capacity to Develop database No of database DoFPS RUB 10.5M (ST) distribution of conduct national conduct NFI and systems and implement developed/implement flora and inventories and biodiversity survey the database to ed, No. of 0.5 M 9MT) fauna biodiversity surveys document and monitor research/studies researched conducted and documented Conduct periodic Develop NFI database Develop capacity to NFI conducted DoFPS 0.3 M (ST) National Forest conduct NFI and data 0.2 M (MT) Inventory analysis Procure equipment and DoFPS MoF, NSSC, 4 M (MT) conduct NFI FAO Develop a dynamic Develop and Integrate National Forest National Forest DoFPS NLCS, DECC 0.3 M (ST) technology system to implement online Monitoring Portal into the Monitoring Portal 0.2 M (MT) track the real time National Forest existing NFMS developed and forest cover change Monitoring Portal to implemented 166 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term activities Key performance Lead Collaborating Est. Cost Objective Outcome (0-5 years) (5-15 years) Indicator (KPI) Agency Partner (USD) monitor forest cover change on real time basis Strengthen biodiversity Assess and enhance Implement molecular Molecular techniques NBC MoENR 0.50 M (ST) assessment technical capacity and techniques and and methodologies 0.01 M (MT) methodologies and infrastructure methodologies for for biodiversity techniques (molecular biodiversity assessment assessment techniques for species introduced and delimitation) implemented Develop City Stock-taking and Regular monitoring and Number of MoENR LGs, NBC Biodiversity Index identifying the evaluation of the Thromdes/Yenlag baselines and initiatives and awareness. Thromde with Index developing the index 3 Identify, Key important Enhance plantations Develop suitable Total area of SRF DoFPS GBCL,NRDCL 0.02 M (ST) restore, and biodiversity and regeneration in SRF guidelines for regenerated (in Haa) manage key conserved, land plantations and important and climate regeneration in areas and resilience broadleaved forest components value habitats of improved biodiversity Assess existing DoFPS NRDCL, GBCL, 0.02 M (ST) plantations and NGO, formulate suitable Communities plantation techniques and regeneration methods 167 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term activities Key performance Lead Collaborating Est. Cost Objective Outcome (0-5 years) (5-15 years) Indicator (KPI) Agency Partner (USD) Carry out plantation in Carry out plantation in DoFPS NRDCL, GBCL, 0.2 M (ST) identified broadleaved identified broadleaved Communities, 0.3 M ( MT) forest (FMUs, LFMAs) forest (FMUs, LFMAs) and LGs, and maintain these maintain these sites sites through through community community engagement engagement Carry out Maintenance of DoFPS NRDCL, GBCL, 0.2 M (ST) reforestation in reforestation in degraded Communities, 0.3 M ( MT) degraded areas in SRF areas in SRF LGs, Rehabilitate habitats Identification and Total area of key DoFPS NBC, CSO, 0.1 M (ST) and carry out plantation mapping of sites important habitats MBOs requiring restoration and components of and rehabilitation biodiversity managed (in Haa) Carry out habitat Carry out habitat DoFPS, Private Sector, 0.3 M (ST) management management GBCL NGO 1 M (MT) interventions such as interventions such as enrichment enrichment plantations, plantations, grassland grassland and alpine and alpine meadow meadow management, management, salt salt licks, snags, licks, snags, waterholes, river back waterholes, river back protections, etc. in protections, etc. in identified areas identified areas 168 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term activities Key performance Lead Collaborating Est. Cost Objective Outcome (0-5 years) (5-15 years) Indicator (KPI) Agency Partner (USD) Promote ex-situ Identification and Number of species NBC DoFPS 0.03 M (ST) conservation of species mapping of fragile rescued and with high risk of habitats and species rehabilitated extinction Develop and Implement sustainable NBC and DoFPS 0.05 M (ST) implement restoration plans. DoFPS 0.15 M (MT) sustainable restoration plans. Develop legal Development of the Approval and No of frameworks DoFPS NLCS, MoIT, 50,000 framework for inclusion legal framework implementation of the developed NEC of wildlife movement framework friendly infrastructure to enable long term BES, WWF, migration under climate RSPN change Enhance Zero Poaching Support to Revise and implement No. of Field offices DoFPS Other Law 1 M (ST) Strategy and reduce implementing the Zero Poaching Strategy implementing Zero enforcement 1.2 M (MT) environmental crimes existing Zero Poaching Poaching agencies (eg Strategy Judiciary, RBP, RBA, BAFRA, Customs) and Zhung Dratsang 4 Prevent and Incidences of Strengthen surveillance Identify and map Continue periodic Number of strategies DoFPS NBC, MoH, 0.05 M (ST) control the zoonosis, pest and monitoring of areas prone to pests monitoring and and plans on pests, DoL, RCDC 0.1 M (MT) increasing and diseases zoonosis, pest, and and diseases, and surveillance of the diseases, zoonosis incidences and IAS are diseases. initiate periodic identified areas. developed and of zoonosis, implemented pest and 169 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term activities Key performance Lead Collaborating Est. Cost Objective Outcome (0-5 years) (5-15 years) Indicator (KPI) Agency Partner (USD) diseases minimized monitoring and and Invasive and managed surveillance Alien Species (IAS) Project pest and Develop required DoFPS 0.05 M (ST) disease spread mitigations/interventions 0.1 M (MT) through scientific based on the results from modelling the monitoring. Develop pest and Continue implement pest DoFPS NBC, MoH, 0.05 M (ST) disease strategy and and disease strategy and DoL, RCDC 0.1 M (MT) management plan, management plan. and support implementation Identify zoonotic DoFPS NBC, MoH, 0.05 M (ST) diseases and DoL, RCDC 0.1 M (MT) implement strategic actions. Support Support to review the DoFPS NBC, MoH, 0.1 M (ST) implementation of wildlife health strategy DoL, RCDC 0.1 M (MT) wildlife health and continue to support strategy implementation. Develop capacity on Develop capacity on GIS & DoFPS NBC, MoH, 0.1 M (ST) GIS & RS, entomology, RS, entomology, and DoL, RCDC 0.4 M (MT) and Drone mapping Drone mapping 170 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term activities Key performance Lead Collaborating Est. Cost Objective Outcome (0-5 years) (5-15 years) Indicator (KPI) Agency Partner (USD) Build capacity on Tools and equipment Implementation of the No. of strategy NBC BAFRA, 1.0 assessment, control, for control of alien strategy implemented MOENR NPPC, (action#1) and management of species. invasive species Training on Development of No. of management NBC/ BAFRA, NPPC, 1 techniques for control management plan for plans developed DoFPS RUB of alien invasive priority alien and invasive outside PA/BC, No. of species species outside protected person trained areas. Reduce the impacts of Implement IAS Strengthen surveillance Area brought under DoFPS NBC, 0.10 M (ST) IAS on biodiversity management plan and monitoring of IAS. IAS management BAFRA,NPPC, , 0.15 M (MT) forest ecosystem PPD- MoAL, NBC Prevent introduction Prevent introduction and DoFPS/NB NBC, 0.05 M (ST) and establishment of establishment of IAS and C BAFRA,NPPC, , 0.1. M (MT) IAS and manage manage existing IAS. PPD- MoAL, existing IAS NBC 5 Control and Livelihood of Enhance landscape Support socio- continue support to Number of landscapes DoFPS MoFAET , LG, 0.05 M (ST) prevent communities approach to ecological assessment implementation of the conserved, and Communities 0.1 M (MT) degradation improved and conservation and of Transboundary management plan of the enterprises promoted of forest their support promote alternative Peace Park and Peace Park CSOs, MBOs cover and towards livelihood sources support development etc biodiversity conservation through nature-based and implementation through and solutions/adaptation of its management scientific sustainable plan. sustainable forest managemen management t and 171 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term activities Key performance Lead Collaborating Est. Cost Objective Outcome (0-5 years) (5-15 years) Indicator (KPI) Agency Partner (USD) community enhanced in engagement the Landscape Identification of Other Implementation of the DoFPS NLCS, GBCL, 0.3 M (ST) Effective Area Based management action plans NRDCL, DoA 0.5 M (MT) Conservation Measures (OECMs) and development of plans for identified areas. Support to Revise and implement the DoFPS DoA, LGs 1 M (ST) implementation of the HWCM Strategy. 1.5 M (MT) Human Wildlife Conflict Management (HWCM) Strategy Support to Support to revision of DoFPS MoAL, LGs, 0.5 M (ST) implementation of the climate smart 1 M (MT) PA management plan management plans of PAs and implementation. Promote Community Continue support to DoFPS Communities 0.5 M(ST) Based Natural revision and (CFMG, 1.0M(MT) Resource implementation of CF, NWFP), Management NWFP and Agroforestry Private Sector, (Community Forests, plans CSOs NWFP, Agroforestry) Support to Support revision of DoFPS NRDCL, LGs 0. 2 M (ST) implementation of management plans of 0.5 M (MT) 172 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term activities Key performance Lead Collaborating Est. Cost Objective Outcome (0-5 years) (5-15 years) Indicator (KPI) Agency Partner (USD) FMU management FMUs and Plan implementation. Promote PES as Promote PES as landscape DoFPS Communities, landscape approach approach to conservation to conservation LGs, National agencies. Pvt sector Support community- Continue to promote DoFPS TCB, GAB, 1 M ( ST) based cottage scale community-based cottage MoICE, BSB, 0.5 M (MT) forest enterprises scale forest enterprises HAB (NWFP, Wood, (NWFP, Wood, Communities Ecotourism) Ecotourism) (CFMG,NWFP) CSOs Develop and implement Develop and Develop and implement Number of climate DoFPS MoICE, 0.1 M (ST) strategy for optimal implement strategy strategy for sustainable smart timber NRDCL, WBIs, 0.2 M (MT) utilization of timber for development of timber harvesting and processing Institute of resources. wood-based utilization technologies Zorig Chusum industries to reduce promoted and timber wastage adopted following circular economy concept Promote adoption of Promote adoption of DoFPS MoICE, 0.5 M (ST) efficient and climate efficient and climate NRDCL, WBIs 0.5 M MT) smart timber smart timber processing processing technologies to improve Institute of technologies to wood-based industries to Zorig Chusum improve wood-based reduce wastage and industries (WBI) to reduce wastage and 173 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term activities Key performance Lead Collaborating Est. Cost Objective Outcome (0-5 years) (5-15 years) Indicator (KPI) Agency Partner (USD) maximize timber maximize timber utilization. utilization. Carry out capacity Carry out capacity DoFPS MoICE, 0.2 M (ST) development program development program in NRDCL, WBIs 0.3 M (LT) in timber processing, timber processing, wood wood science and science and technology. technology. Promote people-centric Need assessment in Develop nature-based Number of products NBC DoFPS, State 0.02 M (ST) biodiversity natural product products to derive developed Owned 0.1M (MT) conservation and development and benefits and equitable Enterprises, improve rural economy market analysis sharing among rural Rural through Access and communities communities, Benefit Sharing (ABS) CSOs/MBOs Programs and Entrepreneurs Infrastructure NBC DoFPS, State 1.0 M (ST) development (Lab and Owned equipment’s) Enterprises, Rural communities, and Entrepreneurs Promote Access and Promote Access and NBC DoFPS, State 0.01M (ST) Benefit Sharing (ABS) Benefit Sharing (ABS) Owned 0.02 M (MT) regime regime Enterprises, Rural communities, 174 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term activities Key performance Lead Collaborating Est. Cost Objective Outcome (0-5 years) (5-15 years) Indicator (KPI) Agency Partner (USD) and Entrepreneurs Enhancing the use of Documenting the Raising awareness on the Number of local DoFPS/NB LGs, local knowledge and traditional ecological use and importance of knowledges C Communities, beliefs for the knowledge to indigenous knowledge documented, and CSOs conservation of establish baseline awareness raised biodiversity and forest environmental information. Forest Build technical capacity Human resource and No. of capacity NBC DoL, DoA, 1M enterprises for Research and infrastructure developed DoFPS developed to development in development. improve the bioprospecting. Procurement of NITM, livelihood of laboratory equipment Entrepreneurs communities , and reduce Existing degradation national of forests and laboratories conservation of biodiversity enhanced CSOs (Loden) Research on Research on No. of product NBC DoL, DoA, 0.5M phytochemical phytochemical analysis developed DoFPS analysis and product and product development development NITM, Entrepreneurs 175 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term activities Key performance Lead Collaborating Est. Cost Objective Outcome (0-5 years) (5-15 years) Indicator (KPI) Agency Partner (USD) Existing national laboratories 6 Ensure Increased Develop gender Stakeholder Implement gender Gender responsive MoENR CSOs 0.02M women’s access to responsive natural consultation and responsive resources resources access and other resources and resources access drafting of framework access framework framework developed (RENEW, vulnerable capacity framework OPDs, BNEW, groups building BAOWE etc.) assess to natural resources and capacity building Develop gender Stakeholder Implement gender Gender responsive MoENR CSOs responsive capacity consultation and responsive capacity capacity building plan building plan drafting of capacity building plan developed. building plan 176 4. HUMAN SETTLEMENTS & CLIMATE SMART CITIES With a rapidly urbanising population, climate proofing existing urban areas and other critical infrastructure is essential as is preparing and implementing strategic plans for urban areas and human settlements. The priorities for the water sector are based on the detailed studies conducted for water in the NAP project, the 1st and 2nd NDCs, the Low Emission Development Strategy for Human Settlements and the Third National Communication. There are great synergies for mitigation and adaptation in urban areas and human settlements as already identified in these documents. For example, energy savings from residential and commercial areas due to energy efficiency and renewable energy generation (solar roofs) reduce the uncertainty of hydropower and function as both adaptation and mitigation measures. Securing ecosystem services in the form of ‘green infrastructure’ around and within human settlements are nature-based solutions for both mitigation and adaptation. The adaptation priorities for human settlements centre around developing climate smart cities and human settlements that leverages green infrastructure and ecosystem-based adaptation. Climate proofing existing critical infrastructure such as roads, bridges, houses, industrial areas, and agricultural infrastructure is also needed. Measures are identified to adapt to increasing floods, landslides, windstorms, and urban island heat effects. Besides hard infrastructure investments, soft interventions like risk assessments, research and data, policies and regulations and preparedness are also identified to enhance climate resilience in human settlements. Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term Medium term Key performance Indicator Lead Collaborating Estimated Costs (USD) Objective Outcome activities activities (KPI) Agency Partner (0-5 years) (5-15 years) 1 Develop Sustainable i) Strengthen i) Review existing Climate- i) No. of guidelines developed MoIT LGs, NEC, 36,232 (Review and climate smart and climate institutional Guidelines on resilient BTL, BPCL, revision of guidelines) cities and resilient human and policy Planning and infrastructure Tashi Cell, human settlements environment to Development in development BICMA settlements. enable climate Urban and Rural ii) No. of climate resilient resilient areas of Bhutan to Carry out master plans prepared planning and minimize geotechnical MoIT implementation environmental requirements in impacts critical areas to iii) No./ length of climate- assess any resilient infrastructure ii) Prepare climate changes in the designed and developed. resilient soil structure. MoIT 253,623 (Preparation infrastructure Number of plans reviewed. of Climate resilient master plans. master plans - Number of geotechnical Gelephu Thromde: investigations carried out. 84,541 Phuentsholing 177 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term Medium term Key performance Indicator Lead Collaborating Estimated Costs (USD) Objective Outcome activities activities (KPI) Agency Partner (0-5 years) (5-15 years) ii) Review Samdrup Carry out Samdrup Thromde: 96,618 Jongkhar Urban periodic Number of related activities Jongkhar Samdrup Jongkhar Development Plan reviews. carried out. Thromde Thromde: 72,464 to incorporate MoH climate resilient components: to implement the Pilot 60,387 (Revision of Project for Climate LGs, DGM S/Jongkhar Urban Resilience (PPCR) Frequency of supervision, MoIT Development Plan) activities maintenance reports, Carry out upgradation plans iii) Carry out frequent geotechnical supervision, investigations to upgradation if LGs, NEC facilitate required preparation of land including use plans adopting MoIT, MoH enhanced iv) Incorporate technologies. “build back better” including integration of LGs mitigation priorities, health risk considerations 72,464 for Samdrup and improving Jongkhar Thromde accessibility vi) Ensure operation and maintenance of infrastructure ii) Leverage i) Assess green Integration and No. of plans /activities carried MoIT MoAL, NEC. USD 1m “green infrastructure for implementation outout. LGS infrastructure” ecosystem-based of nature-based for ecosystem- adaptation options solutions in 178 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term Medium term Key performance Indicator Lead Collaborating Estimated Costs (USD) Objective Outcome activities activities (KPI) Agency Partner (0-5 years) (5-15 years) based for urban areas urban Financial adaptation in such as green management institutions urban areas. spaces and buffer (risk zones in line with management LEDS for Human Carry out in red zones) Settlements. periodic monitoring No. of master plan prepared. ii) Prepare MoIT Transportation master plan for Thimphu Thimphu Assessment report Thromde, Thimphu iii) Strengthen MoIT Dzongkhag implementation of no-build zones on LGs, MoAL, riverbanks, green NEC zones and other water channels with strict rules and regulations through enforcement of existing legislation (EA, Water and FNCA) iii) Combat risk i) Implement green No. of parks, green to built- Thimphu MoIT, USD 20 million of Urban heat infrastructure plan up ratio, plantation areas, Thromde Thimphu island as part of green building components Dzongkhag, implementation of incorporated. BPCL, and Thimphu structure others plan. No. of related activities service carried out. providers ii) Ensure/Green 6,039 (for space; micro parks, MoIT workshops/awareness avenue plantation, LGs, MoAL activities) green building No. of awareness activities components in carried out urban/town areas. 179 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term Medium term Key performance Indicator Lead Collaborating Estimated Costs (USD) Objective Outcome activities activities (KPI) Agency Partner (0-5 years) (5-15 years) iii) Promote green MoIT building designs in LGs, DRE line with LEDS for (MoICE), Human Settlements Private sectors Build Comprehensive Strengthen Develop Update the Housing database developed MoIT Thromdes 5,797,101 2 comprehensive Geodatabase database for Geodatabase for database with geodatabase ((24,155 for each LG) database for for housing, housing, housing, urban areas infrastructure infrastructure infrastructure, including and utilities, utilities, utilities, recreational recreational areas, recreational areas, and and green spaces areas and green spaces green spaces developed. 3 Enhance Enhanced Enhance i) Develop Update the Number of Thromdes with MoIT Thromdes 96,618 (24,155 for logistics logistics logistics Geocoded/Street System Street Addressing System and Bhutan each Thromde) preparedness preparedness preparedness Addressing for the Postal for disaster for disaster for disaster Thromdes Corporation management management management and including and improved ii) Review Disaster Carry out Number of plans prepared improved postal services service delivery Management and implementation with SOP and TAT service Contingency Plan of the action delivery for the construction plan MoIT 144,928 (Revision of and human LGs and the Plan : 24,155 settlement sectors relevant Implementation of the agencies critical activities: 120,773) 4 Climate proof Safe, liveable, Provide climate Review and Implementation No. of Dzongkhags/ MoIT/ LGs, MoAL 724,638 for drafting critical and resilient resilient develop flood and of the climate Thromdes with flood and MoHA MoICE, the Flood infrastructures infrastructure infrastructure storm water resilient storm water management NCHM Management Plans and in critical areas in critical areas management plans infrastructures, plans developed and Red Cross (FMP) settlements for disaster risk and Low Impact recommended implemented. OPDs, RSSC, reduction. in the flood and 180 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term Medium term Key performance Indicator Lead Collaborating Estimated Costs (USD) Objective Outcome activities activities (KPI) Agency Partner (0-5 years) (5-15 years) against floods Development Plans stormwater Monitoring report on CRIs. For the and landslides for urban areas. management implementation of plans. FMP Mow- 7,487,923 Paro -2,814,010 Samtse- 1,449,275 Monitoring and Haa- 3,623,188 Review design of Evaluation of Punakha- 1,811,594 Flood protection climate resilient Thimphu- 6,038,647 management infrastructures Gasa- 1,811,594 protective for disaster 3 other structures like management Dzongkhag/institution/ dams, drainage industrial estates- systems, and 12,077,295 barriers in flood- prone areas For drafting the including in Stormwater industrial/economic Management Plan zones. (SWMP)- 289,855 For implementation of SWMP Thimphu Thromde- 22,137,681 (SWMP is ready) Gelephu Thromde (SWMP will be ready by 2024)- 7,246,377 Samdrupjongkhar - 4,830,918 Phuentsholing Thromde- 6,038,647 Strengthen Enhance/improve No. of officials trained MoIT/ LGs 114,734 windstorm disaster MoHA Construction management preparedness Industry, through through RUB 181 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term Medium term Key performance Indicator Lead Collaborating Estimated Costs (USD) Objective Outcome activities activities (KPI) Agency Partner (0-5 years) (5-15 years) capacity infrastructure, building capacity building, and awareness. awareness and trainings based on Guidelines for Windstorm Resilient Roofing System 5 Construct Climate proof Reduce risk of Construction of Km of roads constructed MoIT LG 117,149,758 climate transport landslides from climate resilient (176.8km) (Construction of resilient road infrastructure increased road infrastructure roads) infrastructure precipitation in Km of road maintained (PNH- critical zones 1,680.19 km SNH-1,169.74 km Dzongkhag Roads-2072.86 12,862,318,841 km (Maintenance of roads) Farm roads -11,258.2 km) as per ‘Climate Resilient Road construction guidelines and standards’ Area of slope sites identified and mapped. Nos. of slope stabilized. (Reotala, Dorjilung, Boxcut. Identification and Introduction Chengala,Leylang and mapping of and Sonamjha) MoIT LGs, MoAL perennial slope implementation MoICE, RUB (including debris of 2,415,459 flow site) flood/landslide (identification and resilient mapping) infrastructures Assess landslide risk Explore and develop potential for 182 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term Medium term Key performance Indicator Lead Collaborating Estimated Costs (USD) Objective Outcome activities activities (KPI) Agency Partner (0-5 years) (5-15 years) landslide tunneling to management plans. bypass landslide prone 6,038,647 (Slope Terracing or slope areas Stabilization) stabilization of landslide prone areas. Slope stabilization along national and Dzongkhag highways. 183 5. HEALTH Climate impacts on human health are starting to manifest in terms of increasing risks of vector- and water-borne diseases, and direct impacts on lives from climate induced disasters. Other emerging threats that have come to the fore in the light of the COVID-19 pandemic include risk of zoonosis events because of changing wildlife habitats and increasing intersection between wildlife, livestock, and human settlements. In addition to implementing measures to address the various emerging risks on human health from climate change, the adaptation needs in the health sector include enhancing capacity and building resilience of the health infrastructure against climate risks and impacts so that such services can continue during extreme events. Measures for the health sector include, building resilience of critical public health infrastructure against extreme events and long-term climate risks. Enhancing health emergency preparedness to respond to climate induced disaster and enhancing surveillance and management of climate sensitive and vector borne diseases is needed. To support the monitoring and health services for, further research and capacity building of the health sector is needed, since the topic of climate risk integration is a fairly new topic among health professionals and practitioners in Bhutan. The health sector also depends on cross sectoral collaboration and coordination, since the determinants of health fall on other sectors and agencies, such as through WASH facilities, design of the living environment and disaster risk reduction and management. In the health sector, stakeholders have identified the participation of senior citizens and retired professionals as partners to fill in gaps in specialised capacity and provide support in outreach and advocacy to vulnerable groups. Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short Term activities Medium term activities Key Performance Lead agency Collaborating Est costs Objectives Outcome (0-5yrs) (5-15yrs) Indicator (KPI) partner (USD) 1 Build resilience Improved Improve health Strengthen laboratory - Monitoring system for MoH RCDC of critical resilience of infrastructure facilities and climate sensitive diseases public health health and equipment monitoring systems established Relevant CSOs 1,811,594 system and system to to adapt to for climate sensitive including RSSC infrastructure climate climate change diseases. New laboratory against change impacts technologies introduced extreme to detect emerging/re- events and emerging diseases long-term induced by climate climate risks change Improve access Improve existing Build new WASH Number of health MoH HIDD, 603,865 to water supply WASH Infrastructures Infrastructures with facilities with climate and sanitation with climate change climate change resilient 184 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short Term activities Medium term activities Key Performance Lead agency Collaborating Est costs Objectives Outcome (0-5yrs) (5-15yrs) Indicator (KPI) partner (USD) for health resilient technology technology and inclusive resilient WASH facilities Relevant CSOs facilities and inclusive accessibility based on the and inclusive accessibility including RSSC accessibility based on WASH FIT tool the WASH FIT tool assessment assessment Strengthen the Sustain/improve Monitoring mechanism MoH RCDC 60,387 monitoring monitoring of WASH for WASH facilities mechanism for WASH facilities in HCF established (Yes or No) improvements in HCFs through close collaboration among RCDC, IPC, QASD and AMR Strengthen waste Continue to improve on Number of health MoH Thromde / 458,937 management system waste management at all facilities with standard Municipalities in healthcare facilities levels in health facilities and functional waste and Thromdes to and Thromdes to control management Relevant CSOs control climate climate sensitive disease infrastructure including RSSC sensitive disease vectors vectors 2 Enhancing Improved Enhance Conduct vulnerability Reduce impact of climate Number of health care MoH DoLGDM 60,387 health capacity of Emergency assessment of health change on health care facilities assessed for emergency health Preparedness care facilities for infrastructure. vulnerability to climate Relevant CSOs preparedness facilities to and Response climate change change induced disasters. including RSSC, & response to handle Capacity induced disasters climate climate Number of health care induced change infrastructures adapted 3,623,188 disasters to climate change induced disasters. 185 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short Term activities Medium term activities Key Performance Lead agency Collaborating Est costs Objectives Outcome (0-5yrs) (5-15yrs) Indicator (KPI) partner (USD) induced Capacity Continue Capacity Turnaround time MoH DoLGDM disasters development on development on climate improved climate induced induced emergency 4,227,053 emergency medical medical services services 3 Enhancing Reduced risk Enhance and Strengthen existing Integrated climate MoH VDCP & RCDC 30,193 surveillance from climate integrate the surveillance system. sensitive diseases and sensitive and existing early surveillance system management vector warning system functional. of climate diseases for climate sensitive and (malaria, sensitive - Develop a vector borne Vector borne disease MoH KGUMSB, NCHM 42,271 vector borne dengue, diseases diseases early warning early warning and & RCDC diseases kala-azar through a and prediction model prediction model etc) on surveillance developed. vulnerable system and populations prediction Develop monitoring - Monitoring framework MoH RCDC 42,271 particularly model. framework for for diseases surveillance in warm prevention and system developed regions. control of climate sensitive diseases Establish Cross border - Joint cross border MoH Respective 30,193 International collaboration for collaboration action plan Districts coordination climate sensitive in place and diseases prevention collaboration in and control (migrant border regions screening, vector with high-risk surveillance in project cross-border areas, awareness) 186 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short Term activities Medium term activities Key Performance Lead agency Collaborating Est costs Objectives Outcome (0-5yrs) (5-15yrs) Indicator (KPI) partner (USD) climate - Review and sustain cross Joint cross border MoH Respective 30,193 sensitive border collaboration collaboration action plan Districts diseases reviewed transmission Strengthen Enhance capacity of - Number of health MoH KGUMSB 90,580 program health workers for workers trained for capacity for management and management of climate management of surveillance of sensitive, and vector climate climate sensitive and borne diseases. sensitive and vector borne diseases vector borne diseases Establish national - National center for MoH RCDC & center for training training and research on KGUMSB 5,434,783 and research on VBDs and zoonoses VBDs and zoonoses established - Develop HR capacity for MoH KGUMSB, 90,580 National centre on training and research for climate sensitive diseases - Operational research on MoH KGUMSB 30,193 VBDs Strengthen Develop community - Number of people from MoH Respective community capacity for community trained on Districts & Local resilience to prevention of VBDs in prevention of VBDs Govt 45,290 VBDs high-risk areas - Review of community Review report MoH Respective 45,290 participation to develop Districts & Local Govt 187 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short Term activities Medium term activities Key Performance Lead agency Collaborating Est costs Objectives Outcome (0-5yrs) (5-15yrs) Indicator (KPI) partner (USD) sustainable community engagement plan Strengthen Capacity Certification of health Number of Health MoH RCDC 120,773 capacity of development of pre- center Centres with certified health centres service and in-service health workers for water health workers on quality and water quality monitoring to monitoring as per international international standards. standard 4 Building The health To enhance Enhance capacity for Continue capacity Number of health MoH KGUMSB 36,232 awareness and sector is capacity of diagnosis and development for workers trained capacity of the sensitised health sector to management of diagnosis and BSF, CSO health health sector and able to address risks new/emerging management of and sanitation on climate start and impacts of climate sensitive new/emerging climate thematic group, change integrating climate change diseases) sensitive diseases) Relevant CSOs adaptation climate on health including RSSC change adaptation Training of health Continue same training No of health workers MoH KGUMSB 301,932 in overall workers on climate trained on health and health BSF, CSO health change adaptation climate change programs and sanitation using WHO training and plans thematic group, modules Create awareness to - Number of awareness MoH KGUMSB 48,309 workers and campaigns conducted employers of the Relevant CSOs potential accident including RSSC and disease risks 188 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short Term activities Medium term activities Key Performance Lead agency Collaborating Est costs Objectives Outcome (0-5yrs) (5-15yrs) Indicator (KPI) partner (USD) associated with climate variabilities Integrate and CC integrated into Review and update pre- Climate integrated KGUMSB MoH, NEC and 36,2319 organised existing curriculums. service and in-service curriculum BMHC climate change curriculums. available. teaching and Capacity to handle learning climate sensitive Enhance parasitology & Number of faculties health issues entomology pre-services trained Relevant CSOs curriculums training in the KGUMSB Initiate long term training such as Masters’ and Ph.D. programs for CC and related health issues Improve risk Strengthen disease Sustaining activities for Number of stakeholders MoH One Health 603,865 communication outbreak the readiness to combat sensitized in districts on Secretariat and on rising trend investigation and hazard and contain One Health approach. National One of emerging response for infectious diseases Established functional Health Technical and re- prioritized zoonoses (Emerging and re- National One Health Committee emerging issues. emerging infectious Technical Committee and (Ministry of infectious diseases). conduct meeting Health and diseases on biannually. Times disease Ministry of zoonoses (eg. outbreak investigation Agriculture and Influenza and and containment Forests) COVID-19) measures responded. Relevant CSOs Conduct awareness Advocacy conducted with MoH 603,865 campaigns on risks of relevant stakeholders in increased zoonoses the districts. Evaluating events from human knowledge, attitude and wildlife interface and 189 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short Term activities Medium term activities Key Performance Lead agency Collaborating Est costs Objectives Outcome (0-5yrs) (5-15yrs) Indicator (KPI) partner (USD) livestock due to practice on health and climate change. hygiene. 5 Research on Generated Generate Conduct climate Develop climate Sensitive Information on burden MoH KGUMSB, RCDC, 241,546 impacts of evidence on scientific change related Diseases (CSD) early and epidemiology NCHM and climate change health evidence on emerging disease warning and prediction emerging Climate Hospitals on human impact of health and burden study in the model Sensitive Diseases(CSD) health climate climate change country available for effective Relevant CSOs change for through implementation of enhanced targeted control and interventions adaptation research on the to climate impacts of Facility based CSD change climate change prediction model in place on health and Assess health system Build institutional Study report. MoH KGUMSB, 483,092 health system vulnerability and capacity to adapt to Hospitals in Bhutan adaptation to climate climate change Number of health centres change with CC initiative introduced Policy review on High level advocacy for No of policy review MoH KGUMSB, NEC, 30,193 integration of health integration of health in conducted on health MoAL, RSTA, in policies of health the policy of health climate change MoIT and determining sectors determining sectors Thromdes, Relevant CSOs Assess risk of heat Develop early warning Assessment report for MoH KGUMSG and 72,464 waves and heat stress systems for heat waves impact of heat waves on MoLHR across different and stress human health population groups Relevant CSOs including RSSC 190 6. ENERGY Hydropower is the source of almost 100% of electricity generation in Bhutan and is another factor enabling Bhutan to remain a carbon neutral country. Hydropower development has been a major driver of economic growth and the sales and export of hydropower is a significant source of national revenue. While generation of hydroelectricity is much lower in winter climate change is expected to worsen the situation with projections of drier winters. Increasing intensity of monsoons, increased sedimentation can also increase maintenance costs of hydropower plants, while the risk of glacial lake outburst floods (GLOF) threatens such large investments. Adaptation measures in energy sector therefore in a two-pronged strategy on climate proofing hydropower investments and diversifying energy sources beyond major hydropower project by developing and scaling up alternative renewable energy programs. These adaptation measures have mitigation co-benefits, but adaptation in the sector is equally important to ensure energy security. The priority measures for hydropower are based on the priorities identified in the technical assessment for water sector as part of the NAP readiness project, 2nd NDC, Third National Communication and the Sustainable Development Hydropower Policy. Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term activities Key performance Lead Agency Collaborating Est cost (USD) Objective Outcome (0-5 years) (5-15 years) Indicator (KPI) Partner 1 Diversification• Increased Pursue Alternative Assessment and Implementation from Hydrogen roadmap DoE, MoICE DGPC, BPC, 6 million (MT) of energy resilience of renewable energy development of green the recommendation of developed and MoF, MoIT, systems to energy system program (AREP) hydrogen roadmap green hydrogen recommendations of Local Govs, reduce and energy consisting of solar, roadmap green hydrogen roadmap Thromdes, vulnerability of security and wind, green implemented Pvt sector, hydropower reduced GHG hydrogen, and relevant Undertake Alternative Implement rooftop 900kW solar prosumers 3 million (ST from climate emissions waste-to-energy CSOs renewable energy projects: solar PV at consumer’s installed in 300 rural secured) change technologies premises and households. - Rooftop Solar PV in rural 18.26million (ST development of areas 17.38MW Utility scale secured) prosumer market. solar power plant - Renewable Energy for commissioned Climate Resilience (Phase-I) Renewable Energy for 50MW Rooftop solar - Promoting Energy Security Climate Resilience resources and its business 60 Million (MT) and Transition Project (Phase-II) potential developed. 50MW Roof Top solar installed across the 382 Million country. (MT) 191 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term activities Key performance Lead Agency Collaborating Est cost (USD) Objective Outcome (0-5 years) (5-15 years) Indicator (KPI) Partner 300MW utility scale solar and 23 MW wind power 8 million (ST) plant commissioned. 656 kW & 50kW Decentralized Distributed Generation (DDG) solar PV plant at Lunana and Singye Dzong respectively Decentralised RE Systems Implement waste to 10 TPD system 1 million (MT) energy plant. (Thimphu & Phuentsholing Install Solar Water Thromde) 1 million (MT) Heating System implemented. 100,000 LPD installed 2.Implement and Development of EIS developed DoE, BSB, MoIT, 0.5 million (ST) scale up of energy Energy Information NHDCL, efficiency System Thromdes, programs in the Private energy intensive Implementation of Development of Standards and Labeling Sector, 0.5 million Standards and Minimum Energy scheme implemented. sectors MoAL, Labeling scheme Performance Energy Efficiency Codes Standards (MEPs) Development of energy of practice for buildings efficiency codes of practice developed. 1 million (ST) for Building Energy Efficiency Codes Implementation of energy of practice for Industries efficiency codes of practice implemented 0.2 Million (ST) for industries Certification of energy Certification of Certified energy auditors DOI 0.1 Million professional as energy Energy Efficiency No. of Buildings certified. DRC, OCP, 0.2 million (MT) auditors buildings ABI, BCCI Testing laboratory for 1 million (ST) Strengthening of lights strengthened Electrical testing laboratory 192 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term activities Key performance Lead Agency Collaborating Est cost (USD) Objective Outcome (0-5 years) (5-15 years) Indicator (KPI) Partner Study on investment Report prepared 0.2 million opportunities for energy efficiency projects • 3. Assess and Assess and Incorporate Undertake research and Project readiness report DoE 12 million incorporate climate climate resilient energy development of completed. resilient energy technologies and power emerging energy technologies and systems infrastructures. technologies. power system infrastructure 2 Increased • Resilient Review designs and Undertake Feasibility Study Development of a 1 PSPP and 1 Reservoir DoE; Project DGPC, BPC, 8 million (ST) resilience of infrastructure increase capacity of of a Pumped Storage Pumped Storage Power Hydropower Projects SPV BPSO PSPP: hydropower with limited of hydropower scheme and DPR update of Plant (PSPP) and developed 1,986 million infrastructures/ exposure and projects to improve reservoir type hydropower reservoir type (MT) technologies to reduced resilience project hydropower projects climate change. vulnerability. Res. HPP: 1,995 million (MT) Investment planning and i) Construction of Nyera 1 Integrated HPP and Integrated HPP: financing for 404 MW Amari-I&II Integrated 377 million Nyera Amari-I&II Integrated HPP; (MT) Hydropower Project; ii) Feasibility study of ii) Construction of 1 IMSHP developed. IMSHP- Begana Integrated Begana IMSHP 30 million (MT) Multipurpose Small Hydropower Projects (IMSHP) for power generation & supply of drinking & irrigation water 193 7. CLIMATE SERVICES AND DISASTER RISK REDUCTION Priorities under climate services and disaster risk reduction is considered a cross cutting issue that affects all sectors. The challenging mountainous environment of Bhutan with tremendous variation in topography creates challenges for providing weather and climate forecast and early warning services. Greater enhancement of climate studies including hydrological studies, improvements in climate projections and better early warning systems is a critical need. Climate induced disasters will also affect all sectors of the economy, society and particularly the vulnerable groups. While floods, landslides and forest fires are familiar climate induced disasters in Bhutan that are increasing in intensity and frequency, the increasingly erratic nature of monsoon onset and retreat threatens farmers and food security. Therefore, the key stakeholders in leading these interventions range from NCHM, Department of Agriculture and Department of Disaster Management, in collaboration with all relevant stakeholders. The adaptation priorities for climate services and disaster risk reduction, focus on improving hydrological services for water resources management, strengthening of agro-met services and climate information system, and improvements for efficient flood forecasting and preparedness. Interventions to protect critical infrastructure and settlements also requires improved flood forecasting and preparedness and response systems, along with enhanced early warning, response, and recovery capacity. Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term Key performance Lead Collaborating Est cost (USD) Objective Outcome (0-5 years) activities Indicator (KPI) Agency Partner (5-15 years) 1 Improve Adaptive Real-time Comprehensive water State-of-art River Comprehensive NCHM NEC, MoAL, Not estimated hydrological capacity monitoring and resource assessment, with monitoring and water resources MoIT, MoHA, services for enhanced forecasting of the geo-tagging and monitoring forecasting with assessment and LGs water through robust flows. plan. decision support monitoring plan resources water systems. produced. RUB management. resources Climate smart Expand and improve hydro- planning. water meteorological stations to Number of new and management include tributaries. improved hydro system. meteorological Efficient database and stations established. information dissemination system on Number of hydrometeorology. forecasting products 194 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term Key performance Lead Collaborating Est cost (USD) Objective Outcome (0-5 years) activities Indicator (KPI) Agency Partner (5-15 years) Enhance seasonal and with decision support annual weather forecasts to systems. generate hydrological flow forecasts. Enhance hydrological Modelling and simulation for water resource forecasting 2 Strengthen Enhanced Provide climate Operationalise the Improve accuracy No of agro advisories DoA NCHM, LG 10,00,000 agro-met adaptive related agro generation of agromet disseminated on time services and capacity of advisories advisory services. (10 products) climate farmers services. information Establish end-to-end system. channels of dissemination of weather and climate advisories (media, SMS, community network etc.) Develop a grassroots No of sensitization DoA & Relevant CSOs 300,000 advocacy program on early conducted (50 NCHM warning preparedness for sensitizations farmers and communities programs conducted) on extreme events and seasonal risks Innovation/ Research on changes in crop Continue research No of research done DoA NCHM, LG research on phenology using real time agromet using real climate data (5 nos.) time climate data. Crop suitability studies 195 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term Key performance Lead Collaborating Est cost (USD) Objective Outcome (0-5 years) activities Indicator (KPI) Agency Partner (5-15 years) 3 Protect critical Safe, liveable, Improved/efficient Modelling and forecasting Enhance flood Number of Flood NCHM & LGs, MoAL, Not estimated infrastructures and resilient flood forecasting, of extreme weather events forecasting, and forecasting products MoHA MoIT and infrastructure preparedness, and and dissemination of hazard and risk and services. settlements. in critical areas response system. information to the LGs and mapping. for other sectors installation of Number of events- flood/landslide additional early warning based maps protection systems at critical areas produced. Map and target flood prone areas with specific, action- oriented communication before, during and after the flood events. 4 Enhanced Reduced Monitoring of Expand and improve existing Glaciers and snow Number of upgraded NCHM LGs Not estimated early warning, vulnerability to PDGL, glaciers, early warning systems for (hydrological) early warning and response disasters. snow. GLOFs and other hazards modelling and systems in place. & recovery forecasting. capacity Strengthen assessment Number of studies to monitor publications on snow and glaciers. GLOFs and EWS. Comprehensive Review and update DM and Implement Number of DM and MoHA LGs, NCHM, Disaster CP. programs and CP reviewed and MoICE, MoAL Management & activities under implemented. Contingency Plans the DM and CP First, (DM & CP) responders, produced and Relevant CSOs implemented (Red Cross) 196 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term Key performance Lead Collaborating Est cost (USD) Objective Outcome (0-5 years) activities Indicator (KPI) Agency Partner (5-15 years) Preparedness for Ensure relief funds (and Assessing the Number of MoHA LGs, NCHM, disaster response. other mechanisms e.g., community awareness of water MoAL, MoIT insurance) for fast repair preparedness related disaster MoF and recovery of properties towards flood and conducted and First, Financial responders, and infrastructures and to water related knowledge institutes Relevant CSOs compensate for damages disasters. transferred. are in place. (Red Cross) Conduct flood simulation exercises to improve the Listing of preparedness level of the communities with Enhance community (Enabling their preparedness awareness of action) towards flood and communities on water related water related Conduct awareness disasters. hazards (GLOF, program on water related Floods) hazards at the community level (Enabling action) Number of flood Incorporate build back related simulation better (replacement with exercises conducted climate resilient infrastructures) Ensure operation and maintenance of infrastructure (aimed at fast recovery). 197 Strategic Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities Medium term Key performance Lead Collaborating Est cost (USD) Objective Outcome (0-5 years) activities Indicator (KPI) Agency Partner (5-15 years) Flood forecasting Ensure timely and effective Ensure timely and Number of early MoICE/ LGs and monitoring early warnings issued to the effective early warning system with NCHM improved. downstream communities. warnings issued to real time monitoring the downstream instituted Build communities. preparedness Number of through adoption Develop Contingency plans contingency plans of early warning and install Early Warning prepared and systems, forecast Systems with real time implemented models, and data monitoring. management. 198 DETAILED ENABLING ACTIVITIES A. POLICY & INSTITUTIONAL To ensure NAP process for the long term, some of the key enabling activities is strengthening the policy and institutional environment. Key priorities included enhancing institutional capacity to facilitate the integration of adaptation planning and implementation at all levels from national to local government institutions. A review of all relevant policies and legislation is also identified to ensure coherent climate action. Enhancing and building on ongoing efforts to ensure collaboration and coordination of adaptation among they many stakeholders across sectors and different levels is also a priority to minimise overlaps, duplications, and avoidance of maladaptation. Civil society and the private sector are identified as partners for adaptation and the enhancement of their engagement and capacity is a priority to support the NAP process. Strategic Objective Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities (1-5 yrs) Medium term Key performance Lead Collab Est cost Outcome activities (5-15 yrs) Indicator (KPI) agency agency (USD) 1 Enhance institutional Adaptive capacity Facilitate Develop TOR and mandates Regular functioning 1 climate unit NEC RCSC, 25,000 capacity to address enhanced establishment of CC and identify climate change and support for instituted at the Agencies national adaptation through units at all relevant units in line with CC policy and E/CC units. relevant agencies. needs mainstreaming of agencies (core group NEPA 2007 adaptation led by a coordinator within each relevant agency) Institute CC units in national (* Recommendation agencies from (i) NAP Stock Taking Plan and NAP consultations) & (ii) Consultations for CBIT project) Enhance Environment Develop TOR and mandates Regular functioning 50,000 Units at Dzongkhag for climate change units in and support for level. line with CC policy and NEPA E/CC units. 2007 and LG Act, and of 199 Strategic Objective Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities (1-5 yrs) Medium term Key performance Lead Collab Est cost Outcome activities (5-15 yrs) Indicator (KPI) agency agency (USD) to take on climate Gender, Environment, change issues Climate, Disaster, Poverty (GECDP) 2 Strengthen national Enhanced Review and revise Review all relevant policies Revise and update Assessment NEC OAG, 100,000 policies and implementation policies and legislation and legislation for integration policies and report of policies Legislative legislation to and enforcement for gaps and of climate change action in legislation as and legislation bodies, enhance climate of climate change opportunities in line with CC Policy for appropriate to agencies, change action resilience actions effective integration effective integration and enhance CSOs and implementation of implementation of NAPs, integration of # of policies and climate action. NDCs and other sectoral climate change legislation strategies action including harmonised and adaptation. updated. 3 Enhance Coherent and Enhance capacity of Strengthen the NEC Continuous briefing Annual reports of NEC NCCC & 10,000 coordination of coordinated key institutions and Secretariat (CCD/DECC) in and training on NCCC/NEC C4 climate change national drivers for supporting the NCCC (HR, continuous basis containing actions member adaptation adaptation coordination of climate training, resources) for changing on climate agencies planning and change action in membership. change implementation Bhutan Regular briefings to NCCC on adaptation CC Adaptation and NAP process as necessary. Annual review on NAP process by NCCC (based on C4 reports) Capacity building of Climate Continuous Minutes/ reports NEC 50,000 change Coordination awareness, briefing of the C4 Committee (C4) for its and training on submitted to mandate on adaptation continuous basis NCCC/NEC 200 Strategic Objective Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities (1-5 yrs) Medium term Key performance Lead Collab Est cost Outcome activities (5-15 yrs) Indicator (KPI) agency agency (USD) (Capacity building of for changing members of C4) membership. Review progress in NAP Review progress in process covered in meetings NAP process of the NCCC covered in meetings of the NCCC Enhance One Health Initiative Continued MoH MoAL & 10,000 of MOH to include other engagement others sectors for climate change priorities in NAP Ensure continued Continuous enhancement and Review and NEC BCP 300,000 support and maintenance of Bhutan enhancements as Partners improvement in Climate Platform to support needed. knowledge NAP process. management and Refresher training collaboration for NAP Trainings for new and updates for process through the collaborators and refresher collaborators of Bhutan Climate for focal persons BCP Platform (BCP). 4 Ensuring active and Holistic and Regular engagement Annual dialogue on climate Continuous M&E Indicators CSOA CSO 100,000 meaningful and inclusive with CSOs and the change adaptation between awareness. implemented, Thematic inclusive adaptation private sector on NAP policy makers, academia, and reports BCSN Groups engagement & planning and process and adaptation private sector, and civil submitted collaboration of implementation implementation society Review & update CSOs and private in Bhutan Engagement of CSOs and stakeholder sector in private sector in NAP engagement plan in implementation as per NAP process. 201 Strategic Objective Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities (1-5 yrs) Medium term Key performance Lead Collab Est cost Outcome activities (5-15 yrs) Indicator (KPI) agency agency (USD) implementation of respective roles identified in the NAP adaptation priorities and implementation strategy. Review and adapt Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP)16 including broader participation from academia, civil society, and private sector 16 Stakeholder Engagement Plan for NAP, NAP Readiness Project, NEC/UNDP, 1 April 2020 202 B. M&E OF NAP PROCESS As discussed in Chapter 5 on M&E a robust M&E system is identified as a key requirement to ensure that adaptation plans and priorities are implemented at all levels and by all key stakeholders and that intended objectives are being met. The M&E system for the NAP process in Bhutan covers three levels of processes (i) monitoring progress in the implementation of this NAP document (ii) establishing a national system to measurements of resilience and vulnerability at a higher level (iii) developing and building a national M&E system that not only supports national requirements in line with the Climate Change policy, but also supports international reporting requirements under the Enhanced Transparency Framework of the Paris Agreement. All the proposed M&E systems are intended to build on any existing national M&E and reporting systems and other sector level M&E frameworks such as the Bhutan Water Security Index. The M&E process also includes the processes for taking stock of the iterative NAP cycle and processes for preparation of the 2nd NAP for Bhutan. Strategic Objective Strategic Outcome Strategic Action Short term activities (1-5 yrs) Medium term Key performance Lead Collab Est cost activities (5-15 Indicator (KPI) agency agency (USD) yrs) 1 Establish and Bhutan’s resilience Track and monitor Prepare annual progress report NAP Process Climate change NEC, C4 All NAP $300,000 integrate a to climate change the progress in on implementation of the NAP. reviewed and M&E system stakehold monitoring and enhanced through implementation of enhanced functional and ers evaluation system an effective and the first NAP (this Capture best practices and including providing relevant for adaptation in efficient NAP document) lessons learned (BOPLL) in preparation and outputs for line with CC policy process implementation of the NAP. implementation national and of subsequent international Prepare 2nd NAP in an iterative NAPs in an reporting on manner iterative manner. adaptation (BTR, Nat Com etc.) Establish a national Review and enhance the National system A national system NEC, C4 All NAP $300,000 monitoring system to approach in “Climate Change to monitor in place to assess stakehold assess progress in vulnerability analyses and progress in progress in ers adaptation including mapping for NAP formulation adaptation adaptation measurements of process in Bhutan” for implementation & including resilience and measuring vulnerability & tracking of measurement of vulnerability to adaptive capacity at a national adaptive capacity climate change in level and across sub-national 203 Strategic Objective Strategic Outcome Strategic Action Short term activities (1-5 yrs) Medium term Key performance Lead Collab Est cost activities (5-15 Indicator (KPI) agency agency (USD) yrs) line with the CC levels of dzongkhags and and resilience resilience and to policy 2020 gewogs. made operational. climate change. Develop a tool for assessing A tool to assist adaptive capacity and planners and vulnerability to climate change practitioners in to assist planners and place to assess practitioners for planning and effectiveness of implementation of adaptation adaptation projects projects and programs. and programs in building adaptive capacity and reducing vulnerability Capacity building for M&E Protocols for M&E NEC RUB process, training Secretari reports. at (DECC), MoF Develop and Establish a national monitoring Implement and A national NEC Agencies $100,000 implement a NAP and tracking system to report iteratively reporting system Secretari M&E system, that is on “support received” for improve M&E for tracking at National responsive to climate change actions system. adaptation support (DECC), and reporting (mitigation and adaptation) for adopted and MoF internatio requirements of the the Biennial Transparency functional nal, and CC policy and the Reports (BTR) by assessing and relevant Enhanced CSOs Transparency 204 Strategic Objective Strategic Outcome Strategic Action Short term activities (1-5 yrs) Medium term Key performance Lead Collab Est cost activities (5-15 Indicator (KPI) agency agency (USD) yrs) Framework under building on existing national UNFCCC & Paris monitoring systems. Agreement Assess and prepare a report on the Progress, Effectiveness and Gaps (PEG)17 on NAP process by year 3 of NAP implementation program. Develop sector level Set up an M&E framework for Implement the Timely reporting of MoENR, Agencies $100,000 M&E frameworks for the water sector along the lines M&E framework BWSI on an annual critical sectors of the Bhutan Water Security along with BWSI. basis. National Index (BWSI). and Annual report on internatio BWSI published nal 17 The PEG Tool of LDC Expert Group of the UNFCCC is designed to assess effectiveness of NAP process by reviewing ten essential functions of the NAP process. 205 C. RESEARCH & DATA Informed decision making and planning for adaptation with the best available science has been strongly recommended for the NAP process from the LEG guidelines from the NAP and through the consultations. In this regard, the research and data will be developed by implementing the “Roadmap and Strategy for Strengthening Climate Change Research in Bhutan, 2020”. The priorities cover three main areas of interventions (i) Conducting specific needs-based research for the different sectors and stakeholders. (ii) dissemination of the results and information through the Bhutan Climate Portal and through education and outreach programs (ii) strengthening research for climate change adaptation in Bhutan through institutional strengthening and enhancing the Bhutan Science Foundation. Also see Appendix I for further details on the prioritised research topics identified as need-based research for climate change adaptation through “Strategic Imperative I: Tackle issues which matter” under the “Roadmap and Strategy for Strengthening Climate Change Research in Bhutan, 2020”. Strategic Objective Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities (1-5 yrs) Medium term Key performance Lead Collab Est cost Outcome activities (5-15 yrs) Indicator (KPI) agency agency (USD) 1 Enhance climate Adaptation Conduct policy- Assess the risks and impacts of Review Climate Number of All $5m change action planning and relevant and climate change on food production Research Roadmap publications on research through informed implementation need-based systems. and prioritise next priority research institutio planning and in Bhutan is research for set of research to available through ns, implementation by enhanced by the climate change Conduct targeted research for inform NAP process the Bhutan implementing the best available adaptation forest fire risk management. Climate Platform. Line Roadmap and science in a through Agencies, Conduct research and document CSOs Strategy for coherent and “Strategic changes in biodiversity including on Strengthening sustainable Imperative I: species and habitats, and other Climate Change manner Tackle issues drivers of degradation and loss. Research in Bhutan which matter” (2020) Research on climate induced issues such as HWC and drivers of forest and biodiversity loss Research and document type of pests and diseases affecting wildlife and plants. 206 Strategic Objective Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities (1-5 yrs) Medium term Key performance Lead Collab Est cost Outcome activities (5-15 yrs) Indicator (KPI) agency agency (USD) Conduct studies water including on trends and impacts, management, technologies, and water related disasters. Research and assessments to support diversification of energy sources considering vulnerability of hydropower. Research on economic impacts of climate change, critical infrastructure & human settlements, private sector Assessment on ecosystem/nature- based approaches for adaptation Assess opportunities for cross cutting issues and gender integration. Research and economic assessments to support diversification and resilience of private sector Disseminate and Integrate a “Climate Research, Functional NEC RUB, $300,000 increase Information, and Service Portal” Climate Service Secretari awareness of (CRISP) (Strategic Imperative III) Portal with at Other climate change into the Bhutan Climate Portal relevant research research research to (BCP) products institution inform adaptation s 207 Strategic Objective Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities (1-5 yrs) Medium term Key performance Lead Collab Est cost Outcome activities (5-15 yrs) Indicator (KPI) agency agency (USD) planning in MoF, Bhutan and MoESD further through Mainstream and strengthen strategic pedagogy, outreach, and capacity Line imperatives III building (Strategic Imperative IV) agencies, and IV of the (Linked to Enabling activity E) CSOs Roadmap Strengthen and Strengthen institutions and Update the Climate Bhutan Science RUB NEC $5m build networks, inspire leaders, and Research Roadmap Foundation sustainability of empower researchers (Strategic functional and Line climate change Imperative II) supporting Agencies research to relevant research CSOs support the NAP on climate process for change Establish the “Bhutan Science through strategic RUB, Foundation” (Strategic Imperative imperatives II & V MoF, V) and update of the roadmap. 208 D. CAPACITY BUILDING Continuing capacity building is required to ensure that new actors can be effective adaptation planners and implementers, while skills and capacity will need to be upgraded for others with continually emerging new findings, methodologies, and techniques for adaptation practice. While some level of targeted capacity building has been included in the sectoral and thematic adaptation priorities, overall capacity building for the NAP process is based on the “Skills Assessment for the NAP Process in Bhutan (SANP) 2020”. To fill the gaps and needs identified in the SANP, the priorities include (i) integration of climate change adaptation learning into the national education and training systems (ii)developing an institutional memory for climate change adaptation by building cohorts of training of trainers and modules in relevant institutions. (ii) promoting the awareness and utilization of indigenous/ traditional knowledge systems and (iv) ensuring sustainability with a financial strategy to sustain climate change skills development. Strategic Objective Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities (1-5 yrs) Medium term Key Lead Collab Est cost Outcome activities (5-15 yrs) performance agency agency (USD) Indicator (KPI) Address capacity Effective and Capacity Building on Development of climate change Update the Skill Education NEC Other $300,000 gaps and needs for locally led adaptation learning learning module and curriculum Assessment and curriculum Secretariat agencies the NAP process as adaptation program into the capacity Needs incorporating , RUB, DoE, , Pvt per the “Skills planning and national education Vocational Education Curriculum climate change RIM, TVET sector, Assessment for the implementation and training systems Development for Climate Mitigation components institutes CSOs NAP Process in by key (Strategy 1 of SANP) and Adaptation Bhutan (SANP)” stakeholders and Creating awareness for students and sectors their parents to understand climate change adaptation as a career option Develop institutional Training of Trainer (TOT) programs # of TOT NEC $100,000 memory for climate and development of training modules programs Secretariat change adaptation at RUB and RIM conducted , RUB, RIM (Strategy 2 of SANP) Promote integration Strengthen linkages with RUB, CSOs, $600,000 of awareness and government, academia, and utilization of extension capacity of NGOs and CSOs CBS indigenous/ 209 Strategic Objective Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities (1-5 yrs) Medium term Key Lead Collab Est cost Outcome activities (5-15 yrs) performance agency agency (USD) Indicator (KPI) traditional operating in natural resource knowledge systems management/agriculture space. (Strategy 3 of SANP) Develop and implement a public sensitization program on IKS across the community level. Develop a repository of all traditional and Indigenous knowledge systems. Mainstream IKS in development projects. Develop financial Develop financing strategy for Climate MoF, NEC, RUB, $300,000 mechanisms to capacity building. financing and DLG sustain climate implementatio change skills Mainstream climate change capacity n strategy development development in sectoral and local includes (Strategy 4 of SANP) budgets capacity building 210 E. EDUCATION & AWARENESS As elaborated in the chapter 4 (Implementation Strategies), education and awareness for key stakeholders along with awareness about climate change and adaptation among the public is critical to ensure buy in and support for the NAP process. The strategy for this priority includes (i) integration of climate change adaptation into education curriculum (ii) enhancing the skills pool for climate change adaptation planning and research through targeted scholarships (iv) conducting advocacy campaigns on climate change adaptation, preparedness, and early warning as part of the communication strategy. Key partners in education and awareness include CSOs, the media and media production houses from the private sector. Strategic Objective Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities (1-5 yrs) Medium term Key Lead agency Collab Est cost Outcome activities (5-15 performance agency (USD) yrs) Indicator (KPI) Enhance education Awareness and Integrate climate Review and integrate climate Review and Inclusion of NEC Secretariat, Relevant 300,000 and awareness on understanding change adaptation change and adaptation into update climate RUB CSOs climate change of climate into education education curriculum in a change and comprehensive and holistic adaptation change risks curriculum adaptation in manner at appropriate and adaptation levels18 curriculum among the d. Update information on wider CC for already integrated population for curriculum (higher levels) more effective e. Refreshers and training collaboration for teachers f. Fill gaps in lower level by and individual activity or other modes actions. (clubs, activities, scouts, exploratory) Enhance the skills Provide scholarships for MoESD, RCSC NEC, 500,000 pool for climate specialised trainings for key change adaptation course based on Skills CSOs (eg Loden BTFEC planning and Assessment Plan Foundation, Tarayana) RUB research through 18 See the report “The Heat is on! Towards a Climate Resilient Education System in Bhutan”, UNICEF, 2022 211 Strategic Objective Strategic Strategic Action Short term activities (1-5 yrs) Medium term Key Lead agency Collab Est cost Outcome activities (5-15 performance agency (USD) yrs) Indicator (KPI) targeted Sectors scholarships Conduct advocacy Targeted training advocacy Review and Number of NEC Secretariat, Relevant campaigns on for (policy makers, planners, refresher advocacy RUB, partners CSOs climate change and practitioners) on CC courses programs a 100,000 adaptation, adaptation planning and year preparedness, and implementation and early warning as part integration through climate of the training programs and communication training of trainer programs strategy for NAP in Chapter 4. AV products for broadcast, Review and Number of NEC Secretariat, Relevant 300,000 print and online/social media update media agencies, Media CSOs developed and delivered. products in partners, (public print and broadcasters, film online media association, BMCD, JAB) Develop and conduct Review and Number of NEC Secretariat, Relevant 600,000 grassroots advocacy program update outreach agencies, FIs CSOs on climate risks and campaigns a adaptation, particularly for year Media partners, vulnerable communities and (public groups broadcasters, film association, BMCD, JAB) 212

APPENDIX I: DETAILS ON RESEARCH TOPICS FOR ENABLING ACTIVITY C. RESEARCH AND DATA Details on research topics strategic action “Conduct policy-relevant and need-based research for climate change adaptation through “Strategic Imperative I: Tackle issues which matter” under Enabling Activity C. Research and Data Research topics Activities and subtopics Medium term activities (5-15 yrs) Lead Collaborating (for years 1-5) partners 1 Assess the risks and impacts of Assessment of climate risk and impacts on Monitoring and research in field and update of DoL NEC Secretariat, climate change on food livestock production and management system assessments CRBS production systems Conduct risk assessment of emerging livestock Monitoring and research in field and update of DoL NEC Secretariat, pest and diseases in relation to climate change assessments NCHM, CRBS Assessment of climate risk and impacts on Monitoring and research in field and update of DoA (NEC Secretariat, agriculture including on production systems and assessments NCHM, RUB , IPCC, post-harvest management and market impacts FAO, etc.), CRBS Conduct crop phenological studies in relation to Continues DoA (NEC Secretariat, climate change NCHM, RUB, CRBS Conduct risk assessment of pests and diseases, Implement and continue DoA CRBS and invasive alien species of agricultural crops, and develop a strategy for management RSSC R&D in soil nutrient management DoA (LG) Promote R&D in irrigation water management DoA (NCHM, DoFPS, LG) 2 Conduct targeted research for Conduct research on fire ecology under different Research on best applicable technologies for fire DoFPS forest fire risk management ecosystems and tree species that are fast prediction and suppression growing and more resistant to fire damages 213 Research topics Activities and subtopics Medium term activities (5-15 yrs) Lead Collaborating (for years 1-5) partners 3 Conduct research and document Conduct research to identify the species and Research on impacts of CC on vulnerable species and DoFPS changes in biodiversity including ecosystems that are vulnerable to CC and their ecosystems. on species and habitats, and other distribution. drivers of degradation and loss. 4 Research on climate induced Research on the impacts of CC on HWC Research on efficacy of protected areas network (PABC) DoFPS CRBS issues such as HWC and drivers of under changing climate. forest and biodiversity loss Research on drivers impacting forest cover and Research on whether climate change effects on impacts of DoFPS NEC Secretariat, NBC biodiversity at different locations and intensity. drivers 5 Research and document type of Identification of pests and diseases in plants and Research and adoption of best management practices for DoFPS RUB pests and diseases affecting wildlife under changing climate. priority pest and diseases wildlife and plants 6 Conduct studies water including Promote R&D in irrigation water management. Engage academic institutions to conduct research and DoA NCHM, LG DoL on trends and impacts, studies on varying issues and enhance climate-smart management, technologies and Conduct studies on hydrological models to irrigation schemes. RUB, CRBS, water related disasters generate information to characterize and CNR manage sub-catchment areas management. Conduct research on crop water requirement- can be enabling. Detailed study on irrigation water shortages. Promote Research and Development practices for irrigation under the local context. Systematic study of groundwater availability, use, Initiate use of groundwater or discontinue based on MoENR MoICE RUB, MoIT, risks, and potential. findings from the study. MoAL Research on water technologies (fog/rainwater MoENR, harvesting and other climate-proof technologies) RUB to build resilience. 214 Research topics Activities and subtopics Medium term activities (5-15 yrs) Lead Collaborating (for years 1-5) partners Systematic study of spring sheds to assess and Revival of drying springs. MoENR, revive drying springs. MoAL, RUB Assess the flow from snow and glaciers and its Comprehensive information on snow and glaciers NCHM, contribution to springs and streams (temporal contribution to river systems RUB and spatial) through hydrographic separation (isotope) studies on river basins, snow cover Understanding the impact on the river systems considering extent and glacial mass balance. melting glaciers Research on geomorphological study of river Delineate and limit the area of development. MoICE, systems to understand the flow pattern, river MoIT, characteristics and sediment load to design and Implement the proposed adaptation options NCHM, propose adaptation options RUB 7 Research and assessments to Research and assessment on potential and Feasibility assessments of prioritized technologies and DRE RUB support diversification of energy feasibility of alternate renewable energy in projects sources considering vulnerability Bhutan. of hydropower 8 Research on economic impacts of MoIT RUB climate change, critical infrastructure & human settlements, 9 Research and economic Research on economic impacts of climate change MoICE BCCI assessments to support on the private sector diversification and resilience of private sector 215 Research topics Activities and subtopics Medium term activities (5-15 yrs) Lead Collaborating (for years 1-5) partners Investments in research for crop, climate, and DoA/DoL RUB econometric models to support research in forecasting climate variability 10 Assess opportunities for cross Gender and climate change adaptation study to NCWC NEC, RUB cutting issues and gender inform adaptation planning in additional sectors integration (baseline of Gender NDC Study 2020) 11 Assessment on ecosystem/nature- MoENR, RUB, DoFPS, MoIT based approaches for adaptation 216 Department of Environment and Climate Change Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources Post Box No: 466 Tel: +975 2 323 384 Website: www.nec.gov.bt Thimphu: Bhutan United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Bhutan Peling Lam: Kawajangsa Post Box No: 162 Tel: +975 2 322 424 Fax: +975 2 328 526 1.7 UNDP – SDGs LOCK UP As we enter the Decade of Action, UNDP has to increase its efforts to engage audiences for the Sustainable Development Goals. To support Website: www.bt.undp.org communications around the Goals and strengthen brand association between UNDP and the SDGs in a consistent way, a logo “lock up” has been created. The lock up in all languages can be downloaded at the brand portal. We encourage its use in all relevant events and communications.