Author: NBC

The National Biodiversity Centre under the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) and the Cottage and Small Industry (CSI) Market are participating together in the Bhutan Agrifood Trade and Investment Forum (BATIF) to promote “Bioprospecting” as Nature-based Solution (NbS). The event, scheduled from May 15 to 19, 2024, at Children’s Park in Changlimethang in Thimphu, aims to raise awareness in the Bioprospecting field.

Considering Bhutan’s diverse array of undiscovered flora and fauna, attached to its traditional knowledge (TK), there is potential to introduce consumer-friendly alternative natural products, offering a wide range of choices for consumers, particularly in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. This transition is anticipated to offer Bhutan an opportunity to take advantage of its untapped biodiversity.

At the heart of our effort lies a collective effort to showcase success stories and products from partners engaged in Bioprospecting, demonstrating their success stories and experiences. As the fair commenced with an encouraging turnout on its first day, we urge all visiting guests to seize the moment, visit our stall, and utilise this platform to make informed decisions.

The guests are encouraged to visit the stall to investigate the significance of why, what, and how Bioprospecting holds potential in Bhutan. At our stall, we offer insights into Bioprospecting methodology and inspiring narratives of community-led environmental conservation initiatives and their benefits, all presented through audio-visual presentations. Moreover, visitors will have access to Bioprospecting policy frameworks and other references that support community involvement in environmental conservation.
For those eager to delve deeper into the Bioprospecting realm, a dedicated space has been created for panel discussions, where our experts stand ready to provide guidance and insight. You are invited to our stall to engage in meaningful dialogue, exchange ideas, and explore the possibility of forming partnerships in the field of Bioprospecting.

A two-day workshop on “Bioprospecting as a Nature-Based Solution for Green Mountain Livelihoods,” led by National Biodiversity Centre (NBC) and International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) involving relevant stakeholders was held on 22nd to 23rd April 2024 in Paro. The event’s overall objective was to advance the use of bioprospecting as a Nature-based Solution (NbS) to promote sustainable livelihoods. The workshop was attended by 28 participants from different government agencies, NGOs, startups, the private sector, ABS community groups, Corporations and educational institutions.

The workshop explored challenges and opportunities in bioprospecting for livelihood promotion, developing a scaling strategy with a focus on capacity-building for local government and gender-responsive, climate-smart business development. Insights and recommendations from the workshop will shape policies to maximize socio-economic benefits while conserving biodiversity in mountain ecosystems.

ICIMOD, with help from partners in Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, and Nepal, is leading the Himalayan Resilience Enabling Action Programme (HI-REAP). The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office’s (FCDO) funds this initiative to boost climate resilience in Asia. HI-REAP work to create a regional environment for greener and more inclusive climate-resilient paths. It gives advice on policy and practice and sets up the right frameworks for new solutions. A big part of HI-REAP is Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) like watershed management, restoring land and nature, bioprospecting, and reducing disaster risks. ICIMOD and NBC explore bioprospecting to improve livelihoods in mountain areas.

His Excellency Dato’ Sri Huang Tiong Sii, Deputy Minister, Mr. Low How Kiat, Special Functions Officer to the Deputy Minister, Dr. Aizalyasni Binti Anuar, Principal Assistant Secretary of the Biodiversity Management Division, and Mr. Tan Hieng Kiek, Private Secretary Officer to the Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability, Malaysia, honored the National Biodiversity Centre and Royal Botanical Garden Serbithang with their presence today on 24th April 2024.

During their visit, the Centre delivered a presentation outlining its mandates and achievements across various programs. Additionally, the esteemed guests were given a tour of the facilities and received guided exploration both within and around the Royal Botanical Garden Serbithang.