On the afternoon of 22nd July 2025, the National Biodiversity Centre (NBC), Bhutan hosted an insightful presentation by Dr. Lila Nath Sharma of Forest Action Nepal and Dr. Bhaskar Adhikari of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. The session was initiated by Mr. Tshering Dorji, a PhD candidate at the University of Edinburgh and a former staff member of the National Herbarium at NBC.
The presentation focused on the management of Invasive Alien Plant Species (IAPS) in Nepal, with valuable lessons drawn from field experiences in the Jalthal Forest. The speakers shared practical, community-based, and research-driven strategies for addressing IAPS – many of which are highly relevant to Bhutan, where similar invasive species threaten native biodiversity.
In addition to the presentation, the visiting team toured various facilities and laboratories at NBC, engaging with staff and learning about the Centre’s ongoing research and conservation initiatives.
The event served as a valuable platform for regional knowledge exchange and reinforced the importance of collaboration in tackling invasive species across borders.