Samcholing Tea

The Himalayan Environmental Rhythms Observation and Evaluation System (HEROES) Project

Climate change poses an increasing threat to livelihoods in Bhutan, particularly in rural communities that rely heavily on natural resources. The Bhutan Foundation, in collaboration with local partners, is committed to addressing these challenges through climate-smart initiatives that both protect the environment and improve the well-being of communities. In line with Bhutan’s pledge to remain carbon neutral, our programs focus on restoring degraded landscapes, enhancing carbon sinks, and promoting sustainable, income-generating opportunities. By integrating environmental conservation with rural development, we aim to build climate resilience and create pathways for long-term, community-driven growth.

Updates

To contribute to the Bhutan’s commitment to remain carbon neutral, the Bhutan Foundation, in partnership with the Bhutan Ecological Society (BES), initiated the Million plus plantation in Bhutan to restore degraded forest areas and rehabilitation of fallow arable dryland to Bhutan’s carbon storage capacity and help keep Bhutan on a carbon-negative trajectory. Moreover, this program will also help build smallholder farm resilience by increasing Farm incomes through the sale of fruits. The tree plantations are restoring degraded forests, serving as a vital carbon sink, and benefiting more than 2,000 Households.

To promote sustainable livelihoods and contribute to the diversification of Bhutan’s agricultural economy, the Bhutan Foundation, in partnership with local stakeholders, is supporting the Samcholing Tea Project, an initiative aimed at enhancing tea production, marketing, and distribution within and beyond Bhutan. The three-year project will bring over 60 acres of additional farmland under tea cultivation. By promoting tea as a profitable and sustainable enterprise, the project seeks to improve the livelihoods of local communities while creating employment opportunities for unemployed youth from disadvantaged families. Community ownership is a key element of the initiative, with beneficiaries actively engaged in decision-making and management. The project not only supports rural economic development but also fosters inclusive participation and long-term sustainability.

Together, these efforts represent our vision of climate resilience that empowers people and protects the environment.

Bhutan is the world’s only carbon-negative country, absorbing more carbon dioxide than it emits.

Program Facts

Million Plus Plantation: The Bhutan Foundation supports a nationwide tree-planting program to enhance carbon neutrality and rural livelihoods by restoring degraded forests and fallow lands.

Samcholing Tea Project: This initiative will promote tea cultivation in over 60 acres to boost rural income, youth employment, and agricultural diversification in central Bhutan.

Sustainable Development: These programs reflect the Foundation’s commitment to environmentally responsible, inclusive development that empowers and builds climate-resilient communities.

Trees planted as of 2025

Acres of Degraded forest and fallow land restored

Households benefited through our programs

Did you Know?

Bhutan is the world’s first carbon-negative country, absorbing more carbon dioxide than it emits.

Bhutan's energy is predominantly renewable, with hydropower being the primary source.

Our Partners

These partners work together to implement climate-smart solutions in Bhutan, helping communities restore ecosystems, adapt to changing environments, and build sustainable sources of income.

Photos from the Field

How You Can Help

Donate: Your support can help fund plantation efforts, provide tools and training for climate-resilient farming, and support sustainable livelihood projects across Bhutan.
Volunteer: Share your skills in environmental science, agriculture, education, or community development to help build local climate resilience.
Raise Awareness: Spread the word about the importance of climate action and how it supports both people and the planet in Bhutan.
Partner with Us: If you represent an organization, consider collaborating with the Bhutan Foundation to implement impactful climate and livelihood initiatives.