THE RENEWABLE NATURAL RESOURCES SECTOR
ADAPTATION PLAN OF ACTION (SAPA)
30 April 2013
Page 1
Table of Content
Acronyms .................................................................................................... 4
Executive Summary .................................................................................... 5
1.0 Introduction ......................................................................................... 6
1.1
Climate ........................................................................................................ 6
1.2
Renewable Natural Resources Sector ........................................................ 6
1.2.1 Agriculture and Food Security ............................................................................ 7
1.2.2 Water Resources ................................................................................................ 7
1.2.3 Forest and Biodiversity ....................................................................................... 7
2.0 Policies and Legal Framework........................................................... 8
2.1
Agriculture and Food Security ..................................................................... 8
2.2
Water Resources ......................................................................................... 9
2.3
Forest and Biodiversity ................................................................................ 9
3.0 The Need for a RNR-Sectoral Adaptation Plan of Action ................. 9
3.1 Potential Adaptation Options ........................................................................ 10
3.2 Existing Gaps in Understanding and Addressing Climate Change Impacts 11
3.2.1 Data and Knowledge ........................................................................................ 11
3.2.2 Convergence of Policy and Practice ................................................................. 11
3.2.3 Capacity in Addressing Climate Change .......................................................... 12
4.0 Climate Trend and Projection .......................................................... 12
4.1
Temperature Trend Change ...................................................................... 12
4.2
Rainfall Pattern .......................................................................................... 13
4.3
Community Observations on Climate Parameters .................................... 14
4.4 Climate Projection......................................................................................... 15
5.0 Climate Risk and Vulnerability......................................................... 15
5.1
Agriculture and Food Security ................................................................... 16
5.1.1
Loss of Production (Crops and Livestock) to Biotic and Abiotic Stresses ..... 17
5.1.2
Emissions of Green House Gases from Farming ......................................... 17
5.1.3
Focus on a few main Crops and Decreasing Crop and Product Diversity .. 18
5.1.4 Increasing Scarcity of Water and Its impact on Crop and Livestock
Production ................................................................................................................. 18
5.1.5
Increased Hardship and loss of livelihoods of Farming Communities .......... 18
5.1.6
Increased Soil and Nutrient Losses .............................................................. 19
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5.1.7 Lack of Adequate Pest and Disease Surveillance System for Crops and
Livestock ................................................................................................................... 19
5.2
Water Resources ....................................................................................... 19
5.2.1
Loss of Wetland Ecosystem ......................................................................... 19
5.2.2
Increased Run-Off ........................................................................................ 20
5.2.3
Reduction in Water Yield and Deterioration of Quality ................................. 20
5.2.4
Landslide Triggered By Cloud Burst ............................................................. 20
5.2.5
Water Induced Health Hazards .................................................................... 20
5.2.6
Sustainability of Water Intensive Industries .................................................. 20
5.3
Forest and Biodiversity ............................................................................. 21
5.3.1
Disturbance of Ecosystem and Ecosystem Services.................................... 21
5.3.2
Loss of Plant Species, Animal Breeds and Agro-Biodiversity. ...................... 22
5.3.3
Increased Incidences of Pests and Diseases ............................................... 22
5.3.4
Increased Establishment of Invasive Species .............................................. 22
5.3.5
Increasing Risk of Forest Fire ...................................................................... 23
5.3.6
Loss of Livelihoods, Traditional Knowledge and Practices ........................... 23
6.0 Adaptation Plan of Action ................................................................ 23
6.1 Adaptation Action Plan for Agriculture and Food Security............................ 24
6.2 Adaptation Action Plan for Water Resources .............................................. 24
6.3 Adaptation Action Plan for Forest and Biodiversity ..................................... 24
7.0 Implementation Mechanism ............................................................. 38
7.1 Organisation, Management and Administration ........................................... 38
7.1.1 Programme Management ................................................................................. 38
References................................................................................................. 48
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Acronyms
AAA
BAP
CC
CBD
CITES
CORRB
FAO
FYP
GCCA
GDP
GHG
GLOF
ICIMOD
IPNM
masl
M&E
MoAF
NAPA
NWFP
NEC
PLAMS.
RGoB
REDD+
RNR
SAPA
SLM
UNFCC
UNCCD
: Adaptation Action Areas
: Biodiversity Action Plan
: Climate Change
: Convention on Bio-Diversity
: Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild
Flora and Fauna
: Council for Renewable Natural Resources Research of Bhutan
: Food and Agriculture Organization
: Five Year Plan
: Global Climate Change Alliance
: Gross Domestic Products
: Green House Gas
: Glacial Lake Outburst Flood
: International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development
: Integrated Plant and Nutrient Management
: Meters above sea level
: Monitoring and Evaluation
: Ministry of Agriculture and Forests
: National Adaptation Program of Action
: Non-wood Forest Products
: National Environment Commission
: Planning and Monitoring System
: Royal Government of Bhutan
: Reduced Emission from Deforest action and Forest Degradation
: Renewable Natural Resource
: Sectoral Adaptation Plan of Action
: Soil and Land Management
: United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change
: United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification
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Executive Summary
Climate Change (CC) refers to changes of the earth's atmosphere leading to changes in
the climate system, such as climate warming and more frequent and intensive extreme
weather events. The consequences of climate change are numerous, for instance
changes in rainfall and snow, melting of icecaps and glaciers, more frequent and severe
flooding, rising in temperatures and more intensive and prolonged droughts. These
outcomes directly affect people and in particular the poorest, making livelihoods and living
conditions more vulnerable.
This Renewable Natural Resources (RNR) Sector Adaptation Plan of Action (SAPA) is
coping and dealing with the consequences of CC. It is important to understand that there
is a great deal that is not known about the consequences of CC for instance how much
the temperature will affect the glaciers, how much rainfall patterns will be affected, and
how much such changes will affect livelihoods and the natural ecosystems that sustain
these livelihoods.
As a mountainous country the climate in Bhutan is characterized by high topographic and
climatic variability, and the resolution of current climate models is insufficient to capture
this topographic variation. Climate projections and scenarios are uncertain, and
addressing climate change requires an ability to take into account a range of possible
futures.
The SAPA serves as the strategic plan for climate change adaptation mainstreamed into
the Vision 2020, the RNR 11th FYP and coincides with the objectives of the Bhutan
National Adaptation Programme of Action (NAPA 2012). SAPA is prepared through
extensive stakeholder consultations in order to integrate climate adaptation options into
sectoral programs and sub-programs of the MoAF.
The purpose of SAPA is:



To implement RNR adaptation plans that are vibrant for responding to changing
and uncertain climatic conditions;
To inform and facilitate RNR Sectoral programs working towards the integrated
approaches among various programs and sub-programs; and
To create awareness among the communities in understanding the changing
futures climatic conditions and engage them effectively in the process of
developing adaptation activities
Section 1 of this Sector Adaptation Plan of Action describes the general background,
climate and the Renewable Natural Resources Sector in Bhutan; Section 3 provides the
Policy and Legal Framework for Climate Change and the RNR Sector in Bhutan and
section 4 presents potential adaptation options for the sector. Section 4 is analyzing
climate trends and projections, and section 5 climate risks and vulnerability. The Project
Action Areas identified in Section 6 are supported by the Global Climate Change Alliance
(GCCA) and the selection and short-listing of project proposals will be guided by
selection criteria developed by the technical committees in the RNR stakeholders'
workshop (February 2013) and annexed in annex 1 & 2. The final section 7 is presenting
the planned implementation mechanism, involvement of focal persons, scientific and
technical groups as well as the Action Plan for the SAPA.
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1.0
Introduction
Bhutan is a small mountainous landlocked country located in the Eastern Himalayas
between the Tibetan region of China in the north, and India to the east, south and west of
Bhutan. It has a geographical area of 38,394 square km and a population of 745,600
people. The country is characterized by fragile mountainous ecosystem with elevations
ranging from about 100 m in the foothills to over 7500 m towards the north all within a
range 170 km from the northern to the southern border. The most dominant land cover is
forest, making up 72.46% of the land area while shrubs account for 10.43%, cultivated
agricultural land and meadows account for 2.93% and 4.10% respectively. Snow cover
constitutes 7.44% while bare areas constitute 3.20%. Degraded areas, water bodies, built
up areas, marshy areas and non-built up areas constitute less than 1% each.
1.1
Climate
The climate in Bhutan varies substantially from one place to another due to changes in
the topography, elevation and altitude. Bhutan’s location at the northern periphery of the
tropical circulation is an important feature that determines the country’s climate. Bhutan
has three climatic zones:

The southern belt is made up of the Himalayan foothills with an altitude ranging
from under 200m to about 2000m. It has a typical subtropical climate characterized
by high humidity and heavy rainfall. In this climatic zone, the temperature ranges
from 150 C to 300C all year round.

The central belt consists of the main valleys with altitude ranging from about 2000
m to 4000 m and is characterized by cool winters, hot summers with moderate
rainfall. The temperature ranges from 150 C to 260 C during the monsoon season
(June through September) and -40C to 150C during the winter season, and

The high region in the north encompasses snow-capped peaks and alpine
meadows above 4000 m with cold winter and cool summers.
Around 70% of the precipitation in Bhutan is generated by the monsoons while premonsoon activities generate about 20% of the precipitation. The summer monsoons last
from late June through late September. 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.
1.2
Renewable Natural Resources Sector
The Renewable Natural Resources sector comprises agriculture, livestock, forestry and
water resources which are closely integrated at the farm level. This sector supports the
livelihood of over 69 % of the population which are mostly rural based and provides
employment to over 56 % of the total population. The current share of the Gross
Domestic product (GDP) of the RNR Sector is 11.6% as compared to 22% in 2005.
Another vital role of the sector is the management and conservation of natural
environment and in maintaining the health of the eco-system.
A wide range of agriculture and horticulture crops is grown round the year in the agroecological zones from the wet-subtropical (150-600 masl) with a mean annual rainfall of
2500-5500 mm to temperate zones (2500-3500 masl) of mean annual rainfall of about
500-1,000 mm. The major crops are rice, wheat, barley, maize, millet and buck wheat
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which are cultivated predominantly in the rain-fed dry land. The sector has diversified
traditional cropping systems by growing cash crops such as apples, oranges and
cardamom.
Animal husbandry plays an integral part in the farming system and is the major livelihood
of the highland farmers who dwell above 3000 m where agriculture is limited to few short
season crops. Forest is the primary source of fuel wood, timber, food and other
ecosystem services.
1.2.1 Agriculture and Food Security
Bhutan is characterized as “agriculture-based society” with nearly 69% of the population
directly depending on it for their livelihoods. Agriculture is dominated by smallholder
subsistence farmers who occupy the majority of the arable land and produce most of the
crop and livestock products. The key long-standing challenge of the smallholder farmers
are low productivity stemming from poor agriculture practices, unproductive farm land,
lack of access to markets, credit, and technology, further compounded by pests and
diseases, wildlife encroachment and natural calamities influenced by global warming.
Livestock is an important component of food security with the potential to increase
domestic production of livestock commodities -milk/milk products, eggs and meat in the
country and boost the rural economy by switching the traditional livestock farming to
semi-commercial and commercial ventures.
1.2.2 Water Resources
Water for a Buddhist is more an element of life than a mere infinite renewable resource.
In Bhutan, buddhists believe that the nature is composed of four elements (jung-wa-zhi)
which are revered: soil (sa), water (chu), fire (mey) and air (luung) (RSPN, 2006). As a
revered abundant renewable resource, water has not only helped the nation to sustain its
cultural heritage but also helped in earning much needed capital for nation building, a true
lifeline for Bhutan. Thus water has an explicit significance to ecological, social, cultural,
economic and political spheres of Bhutan.
The World Resource Institute estimated the renewable freshwater resource in Bhutan at
43,214 m3 per person signifying its richness, compared to per capita availability of 1822
m3 in India, 8703 m3 in Nepal, 8444 m3 in Bangladesh and 1384 m3 in Pakistan (Earth
Trends, 2003). To reiterate, among all the natural resources, water surpasses all in terms
of the benefit the country derives from. Currently with four hydropower plants working
around 86% of electricity generated in Bhutan is exported to India which is around 60% of
the annual export earning making it the highest ranked export commodity.
1.2.3 Forest and Biodiversity
Bhutan has 72.46 percent of the total area under forest cover and 51.32 percent,
managed as protected areas and biological corridors. Bhutan is home to a diverse array
of flora and fauna including 5603 species of vascular plants, 400 lichens, 200 mammals
and about 700 birds. These serve not only as rich repositories of biodiversity but also
indirectly as long-term stores of carbon which mitigate the adverse impacts of climate
change. The protected areas encompass a continuum of representative samples of all
major ecosystems found in the country, ranging from the tropical/sub-tropical forests in
the southern foothills through temperate forests in the central mountains and valleys to
alpine meadows in the northern high mountains. Bhutan also has an extensive network of
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river systems and well–preserved forests that are shaped by high precipitation, numerous
glaciers and lakes resulting in the upstream and downstream benefits such as water and
other ecosystem services.
Bhutan is rich in agricultural bio-diversity with around 80 species of agricultural crops
cultivated across the country. Several crop species with unique landraces have evolved
as an adaptation to the micro-environment created by altitudinal and climatic variations.
For instance, there are some 350 rice varieties, 47 of maize, 24 of wheat, and 30 of
barley. Several of the crop varieties represent adaptations to some of the highest tand
introduced cereal and horticultural crops (BAP, 2009)
2.0
Policies and Legal Framework
The Constitution of the Kingdom of Bhutan provides the overriding policy and legal
framework for enacting legislations and acts which is then passed by the National
Assembly of Bhutan. For the RNR sector, the most notable clause is the maintenance of
a minimum forest cover of 60 percent for perpetuity (the Constitution 2008). The Vision
2020, a long term vision document for the country, the Land Act of Bhutan (2007),
Biodiversity Act of Bhutan 2003, the Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP, 2009, 2002, 1998)
provide the key policy and legal framework for planning and developing programs in the
RNR Sector.
At the international front, Bhutan is a party to the United Nations Convention on Biological
Diversity (UNCBD), United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCC),
United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), and United Nations
Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna
(CITES). Most recently, Bhutan committed to remain carbon neutral during the United
Nations Climate Change Conference, COP 15 at Copenhagen. Under CBD, Bhutan
acceded to Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety to ensure safe transfer, handling and use of
Living modified Organisms (LMOs). Bhutan has also designated focal points for IPPC
(International Plant Protection Convention), OIE (World Organization for Animal Health),
CAC (Codex Alimentarius Commission), and WTO SPS Agreement.
Being a party to these international conventions, the national policies and other legal
instruments are steered towards addressing the international commitments.
Second National Communication Report is the official communication to the UNFCCC
and provides comprehensive reports on actions taken by the parties as required under
the convention including the vulnerabilities, capacity and technology needs. National
Adaptation Program of Action (NAPA 2012) is a report of prioritised adaptation
activities/actions that are needed to address the impacts of climate change. The more
sector specific policies are developed by relevant sectors and these are discussed under
each of them.
2.1
Agriculture and Food Security
To ensure food and nutrition availability, accessibility and utilization through production
and imports the existing enabling policies are the National Irrigation Policy (2012), Draft
Food and Nutrition Policy (2012) Bio security Policy (2010), and the Draft National
Livestock Development Policy (2012), the RNR Research Policy (2012), the Seed Act
(2000) and the Plant Quarantine Act (1993) ), Livestock Act (2001), Food Act (2005), Bio
safety Bill (draft submitted), Pesticide Act (2000), Livestock Development Policy and
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Strategy, 1995. These policies ensure food security through increased production and
diversification as well as providing increased investment in commercialization of
agriculture and specialization in horticulture export, non-wood forest products (NWFPs)
and niche organic products.
2.2
Water Resources
There are many policies and acts which have been enacted to conserve, develop and
manage the water resources in the country. These include Bhutan Water Policy (2011),
Bhutan Water Act (2011), Local Governance Act (2009), Irrigation Related Legislations,
Electricity Act (2001), The Irrigation Master-plan, The Environment Assessment Act
(2000),The Environmental Protection Act (2007), Forest and Nature Conservation Act of
Bhutan (1995),The National Environmental Strategy (1997), The National Forest Policy
(1974), and the Cooperatives Act of Bhutan - Amendment (2009).
2.3
Forest and Biodiversity
While the national and international policies mentioned above provides the overall
guidelines for forest and biodiversity management, there are many specific policy
documents and action plans that have already been developed such as the National
Forest Policy (1974, 2011), Forest and Nature Conservation Act of Bhutan 1995 and the
National Environment Strategy for Bhutan 1998.
3.0
The Need for a RNR-Sectoral Adaptation Plan of Action
Bhutan has made a commitment to the international community to adapt to Climate
Change by ratifying the three Rio-Conventions namely:
 The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC);
 The United Nations Convention on Bio-Diversity (CBD); and
 The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD)
Accordingly, the National Adaptation Program of Action (NAPA) was prepared to enhance
the implementation of these conventions. As NAPA provides the umbrella strategies, the
need for Sectoral Adaptation Plan of Actions specifically for the RNR sector was felt
necessary as the sector directly supports the livelihood of 69% of the population and is
considered as the most vulnerable sector to the impacts of climate change. Emanating
from NAPA and the RNR sector 11th FYP Plan (draft), SAPA provides a broad framework
for channelling interventions and funding to enhance resilient capacity of the sector to the
impacts of the climate change.
The RNR sector is perceived to be affected more than other sectors as a result of the
impact of climate change and climate induced disasters (Draft MoAF 11th FYP Plan
2013). Consequently, the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MoAF) plans to focus on
climate smart RNR programs that will entail on development of research technologies
and use of traditional and local knowledge to ensure increased productivity even during
the incidences of severe drought, erratic rainfalls and pressure from new pests and
diseases. Soil fertility management can be improved through promotion of farm yard
manure; up-scaling of sustainable land management practices, increasing cropping
intensity, and increasing the area under organic farming are other interventions. Livestock
and grazing management needs to be improved to reduce enteric fermentation by
reducing population of scrub livestock and improvement of breeds, pasture and fodder.
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The forestry sector will focus on adoption of strategies and practices such as sustainable
forest management, sustainable harvesting of non-wood forest products, watershed
management, community forestry and use of land and water resources.
3.1 Potential Adaptation Options
The following are proposed potential adaptation activities as identified in the 2006 NAPA
document and supplemented with additional activities during an update in 2012.
Table 1: Potential Adaptation Options by Sector (from NAPA, 2012)
Sector
Forestry &
Bio-diversity




Agriculture/
Food
Security















Adaptation Options
Promote community-based forest management and afforestation
projects in ways to conserve land, water resources and wood
production;
Develop a socio-economic system that ensures that society is in
harmony with the natural environment;
Conduct research in tree species that are fast growing and more
resistant to insect damages, diseases and natural phenomena like
fires;
Develop appropriate database for natural resources, in context of
climate change as well as to support other development strategy;
Maintain the ban on export of raw timber to sustain forest cover; and
Expand and improve sediment and water quality monitoring stations
Develop and introduce resistant crop and livestock varieties with
greater adaptations to limited arable land and extreme temperature
and rainfall events;
Promote agro-forestry or agro-silvo–pastoral systems to reduce soil
erosion and run-off on steep slopes; also to mitigate heat stress and
respiration problems;
Improve food security for marginal farmers;
Terracing and contour bonding;
Convert wetland to dry land (from risks of: prolonged rain and flood );
Change cropping patterns;
Create more off-farm or cash earning job opportunities (weaving,
constructions, road labor, etc.) for farmers who are affected by crop
loss due to climate change effects (early/late rains, pest damage,
frosts, hail storms or droughts);
Improve or upgrade storage facilities to store and have access to food
grains as an insurance against crop loss or damage or bad yields;
Scaling up of Sustainable Land Management (SLM) Technologies to
promote soil and water conservation for sustainable food production
and addressing livestock issues among vulnerable communities;
Development of climate resilient farm technologies and risk
preparedness to climate change;
Improve weather and seasonal forecasting for farmers(agrometeorology);
Enhancing the national capacity to demonstrate resistant crop
varieties to pest and diseases;
Enhancing national capacity to develop and implement emergency
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Sector




Water
Resources
(and
Renewable
Energy)













Adaptation Options
response mechanism zoonotic diseases in livestock;
Enhancing weather and climate monitoring and issues advisory;
Agro-climatic outlooks;
Agro-meteorological pest and disease forecasting;
Research and development on water use efficiency, resistant crop
varieties, water harvesting; and
Rainwater harvesting
Raise community awareness on sustainable use of water resources;
Improve land use planning in degraded water catchment areas to
promote afforestation;
Improve watershed management;
Extend, improve and maintain water supply infrastructure;
Provide technological and financial support to harness hydropower
potential, including transmission and distribution;
Conduct research for other renewable energy alternatives including
solar power;
Enhance the Power Master Plan;
Optimization in design of installed capacity of existing as well future
hydropower plants;
Assessment of GLOF threat in hydropower projects;
Performance of religious rituals (indigenous methods for bringing
about timely rain, adequate water for irrigation, ward off pests and
diseases and usher good harvests); and
Expand and improve hydro-meteorological monitoring stations
3.2 Existing Gaps in Understanding and Addressing Climate Change Impacts
3.2.1 Data and Knowledge
Areas of research to assess the impacts of climate change on agriculture& food security,
water resources and biodiversity, will need basic data on these different systems, all of
which are poorly documented or have not been documented. The specific research
agenda to address effects of climate change on agriculture and food security is
inadequate. In forest and biodiversity, the knowledge on the state of forest, ecosystems
and ecosystem services as well as on species in the face of climate change is little
known. Similarly, inventory of water resources has been conducted and the information
on water resources is very basic. Meteorological observation data is limited to
temperature, rainfall and humidity for less than two decades from stations that are
concentrated in the mid valleys and the southern belt. Such data is inadequate to draw
conclusions for climate change analysis and acts as an impediment in developing and
implementing proper adaptation measures
3.2.2 Convergence of Policy and Practice
There are a number of policies and legislations (c.f. this document Section 2) in the
country addressing the issues of forests and biodiversity, food security and water
resources. However, these policies are not coherent in the face of climate change and the
efforts made by various Departments and Agencies are in piecemeal, rendering
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implementation ineffective. With the threats from the impacts of climate change, it has
become necessary to mainstream climate change into the sectoral plans and programs
that will lead to implementation of effective climate adaptation actions.
3.2.3 Capacity in Addressing Climate Change
There is a lack of national capacity in terms of institutional, infrastructure, human, and
technical capacity across the board in dealing with climate change and its effects on
forest and biological diversity, food security and water resources. In general, there is poor
or no understanding on impacts of climate change on agriculture and food security, water
resources and forest and biodiversity at all levels in terms of climate change on
awareness and education. The specific areas of capacity that need to be addressed
include research and assessment, monitoring, extension and training, and policy
development. Concerted efforts must be made into educating the people on the impacts
of climate change on agriculture and food security, water resources and forest and
biodiversity. This will ensure the country’s preparedness to reduce vulnerability against
the impacts of climate change through awareness and strengthened capacities of all
stakeholders.
4.0
Climate Trend and Projection
As a mountainous country the climate in Bhutan is characterized by high topographic and
climatic variability. The resolution of current climate models is insufficient to capture this
topographic variation. Equally, there are few hydro-meteorological stations, and the
amount, quality, and historical availability of data records are mostly inadequate for
climate trend analysis. Thus there is a high degree of uncertainty about the future
direction and magnitude of change, and this need to be taken into account when planning
for adaptation.
4.1
Temperature Trend Change
The global mean surface temperature has increased by 0.6°C (0.4-0.8°C) over the last
100 years (Gitay et al, 2002). The analysis of climate parameters of the Eastern
Himalayas have shown that the Eastern Himalayan regions mean annual temperature is
increasing at the rate of 0.01oC per year or more (Chettri et al, 2010). The analysis of
surface air temperature data in Bhutan from 1985 to 2002 has shown a warming trend of
about 0.5°C, mainly during the non-monsoon season (Tse-ring et al, 2010).
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Figure 1 : Summer temperature (2000-2009)
Deviation from average
2.50
2.00
1.50
1.00
0.50
Zone1(Dochula)
0.00
Zone2(Khasadrupchu)
-0.50
Zone3(Wangdeu:RNRRC)
-1.00
Zone4(Sibsoo)
-1.50
-2.00
2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
Year
Deviation from average
Fig. 2 : Winter temperature (2000-2009)
3.00
2.50
2.00
1.50
1.00
0.50
0.00
-0.50
-1.00
-1.50
-2.00
Zone1(Dochula)
Zone2(Khasadrupchu)
Zone3(Wangdeu:RNRRC)
Zone4(Sibsoo)
2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
Year
An analysis of surface air temperature data for the last 10 years ( 2000-2009) from four
representative eco-floristic zones, shows that summer and winter mean temperature
trend had increased in the past 10 years. However, at present with the short time-series
data on temperature, it is difficult to estimate as to by how many 0 Celsius temperature is
increasing annually.
4.2
Rainfall Pattern
Unlike temperature, throughout the Eastern Himalayan region, the precipitation shows no
consistent spatial trends. The changes in annual precipitation are variable, increasing at
one site and decreasing at a nearby site (Tse-ring et al, 2010). In Bhutan too, rainfall
pattern fluctuates with no systematic change detectable on either annual or monthly scale
(Tse-ring 2003). Also, an analysis of rainfall data from 2000 to 2009 across four
representative eco-floristic zones of Bhutan shows that the annual rainfall fluctuation
within the country does not show any detectable trend (Figure 3).
Page 13
4.3
Community Observations on Climate Parameters
There is no systematic record of data and observation on temperature and precipitation
including snow cover, frost and fog. The climate impact survey 2010 (N=417) showed
that, the community’s understanding on climate and climate change was poor. However,
the majority of the respondents reported to have observed some changes in climate
parameters such as rising temperature, erratic rainfall pattern, less snowfall incidence and
early flowering of some plants and trees (fig.4).
Respondents ( %)
Fig. 4 :People Perception on Temperature , Rainfall and Snowfall
Source : Climate Impact Perception Survey (2010)
100
90
80
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
Temperature
Rainfall Pattern
Snowfall
Uncertain
11.5
15.8
4.8
No Change
7.2
12.2
13.6
Change
81.3
91.9
81.6
Storms generally start in March and are extremely unpredictable, frequent and intense. In
a survey on impacts and vulnerability to climate change in Trashi Yangtse and Pema
gatshel districts in Eastern Bhutan (ICIMOD, 2011) almost all communities and farmers
saw windstorms as the greatest weather-related hazard and respondents felt that storms
had increased over the past years, causing increasing damage to property and crops.
Page 14
The most observable change seemed to be the increased unpredictability and variability
of weather patterns leading to unpredictable harvests. The communities did not have
access to river water and were dependent on rainfall, which limited the production when
rains did not arrive in the expected amount at the expected times. Although the
households in the survey area are mostly food sufficient, yields are affected by changes
in rain patterns, temperature, and storms; disturbance from wildlife; and lack of labour.
4.4 Climate Projection
It is more difficult to study and understand climatic characteristics in the mountains than in
the plains due to the complexity of the topography features. Existing knowledge of the
climatic characteristics of the Eastern Himalayas, including Bhutan is limited by both lack
of long term observation data and the limited theoretical studies done to understand
complex interaction of spatial scales in weather and climate phenomena in mountains.
Few studies done in the Eastern Himalayas provide an exclusive and comprehensive
analysis of the climate projection in the region including Bhutan (Table 2).
Table 2 Climate change projections* for Bhutan under SRE scenarios
Scenarios
Temperature (°C)
A1
A2
B1
B2
Rainfall change (mm)
A1
A2
B1
2020s
Annual
1.917
1.107
1.039
B2
1.103
61.339
57.559
26.660
28.918
2030s
Annual
1.859
1.785
1.461
1.672
98.908
80.951
40.393
44.924
2040s
Annual
2.642
2050s
Annual
3.412
2.597
2.000
2.448
143.857
110.812
59.153
63.849
3.321
2.561
3.157
183.986
141.903
76.290
82.443
* Based on PRECIS RCM experiments; country level area-averages, Source: Tse-ring
(2003)
The projection for Bhutan indicates that surface air temperature will increase with the
greater change in the west, gradually decreasing towards the east. The projected surface
warming will be more pronounced during the pre-monsoon than during the summer
monsoon season. The temperature increase will be higher in the inner valleys than in the
northern and southern parts of the country. The model predicts peak warming of about
3.5°C by the 2050s in Bhutan (Tse-ring et al, 2010).
In general, Bhutan is expected to experience a significant overall increase in precipitation,
but with an appreciable change in the spatial pattern of winter and summer monsoon
precipitation, including a 20 to 30% decrease in winter precipitation, over the north-east
and south-west parts of Bhutan for the 2050s (Tse-ring et al, 2010
5.0
Climate Risk and Vulnerability
The NAPA taskforce with representatives from a wide range of stakeholders has reported
on key vulnerabilities (NAPA 2006 and 2012) due to climate change within the Forestry &
Biodiversity, Agriculture and Water Resources sectors. The sector vulnerability
assessment findings as shown in the following table are the final results of group
Page 15
meetings, field consultation workshops, discussions among the NAPA Taskforce
members and all concerned stakeholders.
Table 3 Sector Vulnerability Assessment (from NAPA 2006)
Sector
Forestry &
Bio-diversity



Food
Security
/Agriculture






Water
Resources
(and Energy)




5.1
Vulnerabilities
Drought in combination with increased lightning risks triggering forest
fires;
Change in phenological characters of plants/ loss of endemic species;
and
Change in migratory pattern of the trans-boundary wildlife, (all
resulting in loss/degradation of forest ecosystem and reduction of
alpine range lands. Furthermore, possible increase of vector-borne
disease in wildlife due to warming)
Crop yield instability. Loss of production and quality (due to variable
rainfall, temperature, etc.). Decreased water availability for crop
production. Increased risk of extinction of already threatened crop
species (traditional crop varieties);
Loss of soil fertility due to erosion of top soil and runoff. Loss of fields
due to flash floods, landslides and rill & gully formations. Soil nutrient
loss through seepage;
Crop yield loss (flowers & fruit drop) to hailstorms. Deteriorated
produce quality (fruit & vegetables) by untimely incessant heavy rains
and hailstorms;
Delayed sowing (late rainfall). Damage to crops by sudden early
(paddy) and late spring (potato) frost (ref. seasons shifting);
Outbreak of pests and diseases in the fields and during storage
where they were previously unknown; and
Damages to road infrastructures (food security) – also related to
Natural Disaster & Infrastructure sector.
Temporal & spatial variation in flow, affecting notably electricity
production/exports due to disruption of average flows for optimum
hydropower generation;
Increased sedimentation of rivers, water reservoirs and distribution
network, affecting notably irrigation schemes’ productivity/ agricultural
crop yields;
Reduced ability of catchment areas to retain water/increased runoffs
with enhanced soil erosion (deterioration of environment); and
Deterioration of (drinking) water quality - also related to Health sector
Agriculture and Food Security
The food security programs that encompass availability, access, utilization, and nutrition
(WFS, 1996) have to consider all the four aspects in addressing the food security.
Household food security of Bhutanese farmer’s hinges around domestic food production,
livestock rearing, Non Wood Forest Products (NWFP) collected from the natural forest
and off farm works. In Bhutan food security is mostly equated with enhancing food
availability through increased production and import. A survey in 2007 reported that about
35% of the respondents faced food shortage during the year, and of this figure, 51%
Page 16
faced food shortage for more than 4 months while 49 % had inadequate food for 3
months or less.
The subsistence nature of farming, smallholder farmers who farm on small land holdings,
the rugged terrain and remoteness, low productivity of crops and animals and
dependency on seasonal monsoon makes the farming communities most food insecure.
The overall self-sufficiency of rice, the most preferred staple through domestic production
is only about 50%. The country annually imports 45-50% of the domestic rice requirement
from India and other countries. The projected climate change scenarios could further
impact the agriculture and livestock sectors due the scarcity of water, incidence of pest
and diseases and temperature extremes. Another primary threat to the household food
security is the soaring food prices and the shortfall of Indian Rupees that is already
limiting the access to food. This will be further elevated by the rapid increase in
population, economic growth, scare resources and rising demand for food and livestock
products. In livestock production system, the major threat of climate change will be on
the degradation of natural resource base supporting livestock production. Such
degradations will reduce feed, fodder and water availability which could ultimately impact
livestock production that remains as the key component of food security. Floods and
landslides due to extreme weather have been causing the loss of livestock and for rural
communities losing livestock assets could lead to poverty and loss of livelihood.
5.1.1 Loss of Production (Crops and Livestock) to Biotic and Abiotic Stresses
Loss of production of both crops and livestock to unusual outbreaks of pest and diseases,
erratic rainfalls, windstorms, droughts and flash floods and landslides are increasing
annually. In crops diseases like rice blast, Gray Leaf Spot in maize, citrus greening and
diseases in cardamom and ginger have become very serious problems. In animals, with
the increase in temperature and rainfall, incidences of vector borne diseases like
piroplasmosis could increase and expand into cooler areas. The variation in temperature
and humidity can have a significant effect on helminthes infections. At present there are
very limited climate resilient varieties of crops and fodder. Selection and adaptation of
crop and fodder varieties resistant to biotic and abiotic stress are limited. Farmers
continue to depend on traditional varieties that are highly vulnerable to pest and disease,
drought and heat stress. The changes in crop and livestock farming system could
produce effects on the distribution and impact of Malaria and Schistosomiasis.
5.1.2 Emissions of Green House Gases from Farming
Farming emits Green House Gas (GHG) like methane and nitrous oxide but if managed
well, it may be reduced considerably. The use of chemical fertilizers is increasing as a
mean to accelerate food production. There is also a major emphasis to enhance rice
production which is the primary source of methane. The livestock production system
contributes to climate change directly through the production of GHG emissions and
indirectly through the destruction of biodiversity and degradation of land and water and air
pollution. In light of this, there is a need to develop and promote good agriculture
practices like proper management of manure and chemical fertilizers, promotion of agroforestry in the farming system, adopt proper husbandry practices and management
strategies for livestock to reduce GHG. The promotion of Organic program should be
pursued strongly to reduce dependency on external inputs.
Page 17
5.1.3 Focus on a few main Crops and Decreasing Crop and Product Diversity
The natural variability in altitudes and local climate has allowed the Bhutanese farmers to
cultivate a wide range of food crops, vegetables and fruits. However farmers normally
practice mono-cropping and cultivate major cereals like rice and maize. Many farmers, of
late, have started to switch over from cereal crops like wheat, barley, and buckwheat and
millet production to horticulture crops. With the increase in the numbers of small poultry
and dairy farms, demand for feed and fodders have also increased in those areas that are
connected by road networks As a result of decreasing crop diversity nutritional
requirements of children are often not met. Increasing farm level diversity will be an
important means to adapt to the impact of climate change as well as address nutritional
security.
5.1.4 Increasing Scarcity of Water and Its impact on Crop and Livestock
Production
The irrigated land in the country is less than 18 % of the total arable land and it is mostly
focused on rice cultivation. There are 1307 exiting irrigation schemes mostly of
conventional open canal (gravity fed) where water seepage and evaporation rates are
very high resulting with conveyance efficiency of only 30 to 40 %. The seepage of water
and poor paddy field tail water management are also identified as one of the main causes
of landslides and soil erosions. The water demand is increasing for consumption and
irrigation. Options of improved conveyance and efficient means to irrigate crops are not
explored. Programs on water harvesting, efficient conveyance system, water storage
structures, use of groundwater, and modern irrigation technologies (drip, sprinkler) are at
infancy.
In livestock, the shortage of water will have a major impact on change in feed resources
manifested in the form decrease in fodder production, degradation of pasture and
rangelands which will significantly impact livestock productivity, carrying capacity of
rangelands, the buffering ability of the ecosystems and their sustainability. The primary
productivity of crops, forage and rangelands could change depending on location, system
and species. Lack of water could lead to degradation of nutrient of different plant species
which will then influence consumption and digestibility.
5.1.5 Increased Hardship and loss of livelihoods of Farming Communities
Rugged terrain and remoteness cause difficulties to deliver agricultural inputs like seed,
fertilizers and extension services. Seed is the single most important input for crop
production. Over 95% of the seed requirement is met from the farm saved seed. High
quality seed and planting materials of cereals, horticulture crops and fodder species if
made available to the farmers at the right time can help avert many production
constraints. The current seed storage facilities are poor and inefficient. Seed is the single
most important input for crop production. Over 95% of the seed requirement is met from
the farm saved seed. High quality seed and planting materials of cereals, horticulture
crops and fodder species if made available to the farmers at the right time can help avert
many production constraints. The current seed storage facilities are poor and inefficient.
It is more challenging during the monsoon. Disruption in communication has a huge
impact on the food distribution and stability dimensions of food security. Improving
accessibility will help farming communities to improve their livelihood and food security
which could be accelerated by climate change.
Page 18
5.1.6 Increased Soil and Nutrient Losses
More than 31% of agriculture land is on slopes greater than 50% slope, and sheet
erosions that contribute to sediment loads of rivers are a perpetual problem in the
Bhutanese farming system. Fodder trees and grasses promoted along sloping farmland
as hedges provide animal feed, and minimize sheet erosions. The loss of soils has been
reduced by half through the introduction of the hedgerow systems, and also helps to build
up carbon stock in soil organic matter. The extreme weather patterns could further
enhance soil loss and erosion due to runoff, landslides and lack of cover crops.
5.1.7 Lack of Adequate Pest and Disease Surveillance System for Crops and
Livestock
In general, the institutional capacity of the institution involved in pest surveillance and
management is limited. Several outbreaks of new pests and diseases are reported both in
crops and livestock due to increasing temperature and humidity. Outbreaks of diseases
and pest usually localized in lower elevations are now being reported in cooler areas. In
order to provide rapid response during such outbreaks which could be more frequent, it is
essential to strengthen the institution capacity for pest and disease surveillance
5.2
Water Resources
Based on ICIMOD study (Mool et al., 2001), it is reported that there are 677 glaciers and
2674 glacial lakes covering an area of 1317 km 2 and 107 km2 respectively. The glacier
forms a mighty ice reserve of 127 km3 which is a perpetual and crucial source of water for
most river systems in the country and downstream in India and Bangladesh. From the
mosaic of numerous sub-watersheds, broadly nine main watersheds can be defined
running west to east (FAO, 1999). The perpetual stock of water in the form of glaciers in
the Northern part and 72% of forest cover ensure healthy watershed status.
The Amo Chhu the Wang Chhu the Punatsang Chhu and the Drangme Chhu form four
major river basins. All the river systems originate within the country except three rivers
viz. Amo Chhu, Gongri and Kuri Chhu all of which originate in the southern part of the
Tibetan Plateau. The north-south rivers are the larger rivers running from the highest
mountains of the country down to the lowlands near the Indian border. The second
category of rivers, designated as the east-west tributaries, include all the minor streams
that flow as tributaries into the north-south rivers. These minor streams are mainly rainfed. In terms of water supplies to both the rural and urban areas, the east-west tributaries
are of greater importance. Water users draw water from three distinctly different source
groups: namely, the main stem rivers; tributary streams and rivers; and sub-surface
water. At the present, the demand of water is for hydropower generation, municipal use,
domestic use, irrigation, industrial use, and livestock rearing and production.
The risks on the water resources due to climate change would be on the following areas:
5.2.1 Loss of Wetland Ecosystem
Wetlands and fresh water ecosystems such as lakes, marshes and rivers may also be
damaged due to change in climate. The quality of water will also deteriorate due to
increase in temperature and there will be negative impacts on aquatic organisms with the
possibility of some species becoming extinct. Further, resilience of many ecosystems will
Page 19
also be threatened by an unprecedented combination of climate change, associated
disturbances like flooding and drought.
5.2.2 Increased Run-Off
Mountain regions provide more than 50% of the global river runoff, and more than onesixth of the Earth‘s population relies on glaciers and seasonal snow for their water supply.
In Bhutan, climate change induced glacial melt could seriously affect thousands of people
who depend on glacial melt for their water supply. The current trends in glacial melt
suggest that the low flow will become substantially reduced as a consequence of climate
change. The effect of this on food production and economic growth is likely to be
unfavourable. The situation may appear to be normal in the region for several decades to
come, and even with increased amounts of water available to satisfy dry season
demands. However, when the shortage arrives, it may happen abruptly, with water
systems going from plenty to scarce in perhaps a few decades or less. Some areas may
run out of water during the dry season if the current warming and glacial melting trends
continue for several more decades resulting in drought like situation.
5.2.3 Reduction in Water Yield and Deterioration of Quality
The prominent negative impacts of climate change on water, sanitation and hygiene from
the national perspective are (i) damage of water supply and sanitation infrastructures from
increased flooding or landslide, debris flow, GLOF etc. (ii) Increased operation and
maintenance costs for treatment of water due to degradation of water quality input (iii)
Pollution induced by overwhelming capacity of low cost surface water protection system,
including pathogen loading, water borne diseases propagation (iv) water borne diseases
Increased by dry spells / droughts and degradation of quality of shallow water, ponds and
marshes (v) possible drying up of spring and stream sources in remote areas.
5.2.4 Landslide Triggered By Cloud Burst
In the mid-mountains a landslide triggered by cloudburst often falls into a river, damming
it temporarily and creating an impoundment in the upstream reach. The steeper the
slopes, the greater are the possibility of formation of a landslide dam. In narrow valleys,
massive slope landslides can completely block the path of a river, impounding a huge
quantity of water. When the dam breaks after it is over-topped or when it fails to withstand
water pressure, a sudden flood is created. Such events occur randomly and cannot be
predicted precisely.
5.2.5 Water Induced Health Hazards
Climate change has more subtle and sustained impacts on human health by affecting the
three basic elements of life namely air, water and food. The impact of climate change on
health conditions of direct impacts are of drought, heat waves, and flash floods, while
indirect effects are economic dislocation, decline, conflict, crop failure, and associated
malnutrition and hunger.
5.2.6 Sustainability of Water Intensive Industries
Most of the industries are located in the young, fragile and geologically unstable southern
foothills that are prone to natural soil erosion and landslides. The industries that are
heavily dependent on water are distilleries, agro industries, breweries, beverage
industries, food industries and metallurgical industries that require a continuous flow of
water for the cooling process. Water supplies for most of the existing industries are
Page 20
currently met from the local tributaries, but some are served from the associated
municipal water supply. The water need for these water intensive industries are tapped
from the springs and streams. There are reported cases of drying up of water and
dwindling of water yield at the sources. This is even more frightening since the availability
of an alternate source was never ascertained.
5.3
Forest and Biodiversity
Bhutan’s rich forests and agro-biodiversity serve not only as rich repositories of
biodiversity but also as long-term stores of carbon which mitigate the adverse impacts of
climate change. However, the resilience of forests and biodiversity can be threatened by
a combination of climate change, associated disturbances (e.g. flooding, drought,
wildfire, insects-pests) and other change drivers (e.g. land use change, pollution,
fragmentation of natural systems). Several modelling studies indicate that climate change
can cause shift in forest boundaries, alter ecosystems, change composition of forests,
and loss of species, that can lead to changes in the ecosystem functions and services. In
Bhutan forest and biodiversity are vulnerable to the following risks due to climate change:
5.3.1 Disturbance of Ecosystem and Ecosystem Services
The climate impact survey 2010 indicated that Juniper scrub forests in the Alpine
ecosystem (above 4000 masl) are increasing in area while the availability of alpine plants
is decreasing. Fire suppression in the forestry management practices may have attributed
to an increase in scrub forest coverage. Local communities also reported that the
discontinuation of the use of fire in rangeland management regimes, has led to the
acceleration of the incursion by woody species. It is likely that with the increasing upward
movement of conifer scrub forest could result in habitat encroachment of medicinal plants
such as Picorrhiza spp, Ophiocordyceps sinensis Gentiana urnula and Rhodiola spp. This
could result to alteration of alpine meadows habitat, leading to disappearance of
ecologically sensitive and economically important species
The tree line shifts in the forest ecosystems has been observed and fir forests (Abies
densa) on the mountain tops declined in the 1980s due to moisture stress (Gratzer et al,
1997). With rising temperature, and increasing incidences of moisture stresses, the
vulnerability of fir forests is high and the upper limit of Abies, Tsuga and Juniperus may
shift higher up or may even extinct from the area.
Blue pine (Pinus wallichiana) encroachment into spruce/maple/birch forests is observed.
The distribution of evergreen broad-leaved species along the altitudinal slope of dry valley
mid-hills is limited by winter temperature (coldest month’s mean temperature) of minus
one degree Celsius which coincides at 2900 masl. (Wangda & Ohsawa 2006a). With the
increasing trend of winter temperatures over the past ten years, according to unpublished
meteorological data of the Research and Development Centre (RDC), Yusipang, there is
a probability of increasing the upper limit of evergreen broad-leaved species from 2900 m
(current) to higher altitudes in future. Therefore, the montane cloud forests which occur
around 2500 m in the valley slopes of Dochula-Bajo series (Wangda & Ohsawa, 2010)
and around 2000 m along the mid hills of Gedu-Darla series (Wangda et al, in press) are
vulnerable to this change. This could lead to habitat loss for some important relic plant
species like Taxus, Magnolia, Tetracentron and endangered bird species such as
hornbills.
Climate change combined anthropogenic activities may also accelerate the damage to
wetlands and fresh water ecosystems, such as lakes, marshes and rivers. For instance,
Page 21
the wetlands of Phobjikha, which is the habitat of the black-necked cranes, is threatened
to become unsuitable the birds due to intensive agriculture, continuous grazing and
encroachment by blue pine forests ( The climate impact survey 2010).
5.3.2 Loss of Plant Species, Animal Breeds and Agro-Biodiversity.
Climate change will impact species mainly through changes in distribution and population
status. It will also affect phenology, which in turn could affect the plant-pollinator
interactions and prey-predator dynamics (Campbell et al, 2009). These observations raise
concerns for Bhutan to about 105 endemic plants and a number of globally threatened
species. Also, there could be potential loss of restricted Himalayan endemics such as the
pygmy hog, Himalayan field mouse, and flying squirrel and high altitude
medicinal/endemic plant species. In addition, the existence of large predators such as the
tiger and the snow leopard are already threatened by shrinking or fragmented habitats
making them more vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.
The principal factors that could lead to reduced agro-biodiversity are the prevailing rise in
temperature and changes in precipitation leading to increased incidence of extreme
weather events (Chettri et al, 2010). This in turn could lead to low yield, higher incidences
of pests and diseases, and disappearance of some species, varieties and breeds. The
rice blast in 1995 caused by a fungus Pyricularigrisea, occurred on an epidemic scale in
the high altitude warm temperate rice growing areas causing as high as 71 percent yield
loss and loss of traditional rice varieties. In maize, a new maize disease Gray Leaf Spot
(GLS) caused by the fungus Cercospora zeaemaydis that was never reported in Bhutan,
devastated the entire maize growing area in the east affecting about 3835 households.
Adaptability of the existing livestock breeds will change. Local and rare breeds will
become extinct as a result of climate change, disease epidemics and changing farming
systems.
5.3.3 Increased Incidences of Pests and Diseases
Recent moderate warming has been linked to improved forests productivity, but these
gains are expected to be offset by the effects of increasing drought, fire and insect
outbreaks as a result of further warming (Campbell et al, 2009). Rising temperature and
erratic dry and moist periods leads to drought like condition including drying up of soil
moisture. In the past several incidences of pine die-backs were observed (1994, 1999,
2001, 2003 & 2008) along the Paachu-Wangchu valley. These entire die back of pine was
strongly correlated with higher temperature and lower rainfall. The productivity of conifer
forests (Abies densa, Pinus wallichiana, Picea ) and oak forests (Quercus glauca and
Quercus griffithii) suffered set-backs due to periodic diebacks and insect attacks.
5.3.4 Increased Establishment of Invasive Species
The threat to biodiversity due to alien invasive species is considered only second to that
of habitat loss. Climate change will expedite the colonization of some areas by invasive
species in both terrestrial as well as fresh water ecosystems, which will have severe
ramifications on native species (Campbell et al, 2009, CBD, 2009). A significant increase
in the diversity of invasive species such as Mikaniami carantha.,Parthenium spp., Opuntia
spp., Eupatorium ordoratum, Lantana camara, Commelina, Galinsoga and Phyllanthus
are reported. Such increase of noxious invasive species may result in the decline of
native species diversity in addition to lowering the production of agricultural crops and
forest productivity and environmental services
Page 22
5.3.5 Increasing Risk of Forest Fire
Forest fires are considered to be one of the key threats to coniferous forests in the
country with 526 incidents of forest fire, affecting over 70,000 ha of forest between
1999/2000 to 2007/2008 (BAP, 2009). The rising temperature and long spells of drought
are likely to increase the risk of forest fires resulting in further reduction and degradation
of forest resources. However, forest fires are also an essential part of the natural process
in the functioning of many ecosystems. Effective biodiversity conservation therefore
requires allowing fire to play their role in maintaining ecosystem functioning, without
posing a threat to biodiversity or human well-being (CBD, 2009).
5.3.6 Loss of Livelihoods, Traditional Knowledge and Practices
The Bhutanese have always lived in harmony with nature and have used biodiversity for
many purposes from fuel-wood, food, fibre, shelter, medicine, household implements, and
handicrafts to several other purposes. Bhutan has a rich tradition which is closely linked
to biodiversity. For example, the use of Dru Na Ngu (nine important food crops) in
offerings and rituals signifies the sacred role of biodiversity in culture and traditions. If
climate and land-use change lead to losses in agro-biodiversity, including discontinuation
of traditional practices, the culture of local communities will be adversely affected. Local
livelihoods of traditional farming are already made vulnerable by human-wildlife conflicts.
It is possible that the situation will be exacerbated with climate change due to the effects
on behaviours and habitats of wild animals. There are reports of change in the movement
and feeding patterns of the wild boar, bear, elephants and monkeys, leading to more
conflicts with farmers.
6.0
Adaptation Plan of Action
In line with NAPA, SAPA is prepared through extensive stakeholder consultations in order
to integrate climate adaptation options into Sectoral programs and sub-programs of the
MoAF. The purpose of SAPA is:



To implement RNR adaptation plans that are vibrant for responding to changing
and uncertain climatic conditions,
To inform and facilitate RNR Sectoral programs working towards the integrated
approaches among various programs and sub-programs
To create awareness among the communities in understanding the changing
futures climatic conditions and engage them effectively in the process of
developing adaptation activities.
The RNR-SAPA document consolidates and integrates the climate change adaptation
related programs, themes and actions of the RNR sector as proposed in the 11 th FYP
Plan. The three core themes in RNR-SAPA are Agriculture and Food Security, Forest
and Biodiversity and Water Resources.
In order to make the Plan of Action focused and relevant, a set of seven Adaptation
Action Areas (AAA) for each RNR theme are proposed. The seven AAA are:
1. Food Security and Poverty Alleviation;
2. Forest and Biodiversity Conservation;
3. Governance and Sustainability;
Page 23
4.
5.
6.
7.
Forest and Ecosystem;
Natural Disasters and Infrastructure
Research, Education & Advocacy. and
Water Resources Use, Access and Management
Actions identified in the above seven AAA
thematic areas :
are arranged according to following 3
6.1 Adaptation Action Plan for Agriculture and Food Security
Main adaptation actions for Agriculture and Food Security are to (i) Develop and promote
biotic and Abiotic stress tolerant crop and fodder varieties (ii) Improve local breeds &
traditional crops that have adapted to local climatic stress and feed resources (iii)
Strengthen in-situ and ex-situ conservation of crop and livestock resources (iii)
Institutionalize surveillance and forecasting system and containment mechanism for
emerging plant and animal diseases (iv) Diversify and integrate livestock and crop
production and (v) Developing and pilot climate smart RNR Program. The detailed
actions based on the gaps, risks and vulnerabilities are given in Table .4
6.2 Adaptation Action Plan for Water Resources
Actions of main concerns for Water Resources are in the areas of (i) Watershed
Management Planning and implementation of activities in the critical watersheds (ii)
Conservation and use of forest and wetland ecosystem for enhancing livelihoods (iii)
Comprehensive water resources inventory; mapping, assessment of the quality and
quantity of the major water sources for various uses (iii) Rain water harvesting to prevent
water shortages during dry periods and irregularities during the monsoons and (iv)
Traditional knowledge and local perspectives in adapting to the changing climate . The
detailed actions based on the gaps, risks and vulnerabilities are given in Table 5
6.3 Adaptation Action Plan for Forest and Biodiversity
Focused actions for Forest and Biodiversity are (i) to ensure ensure sustainable
management and utilization of biodiversity (ii) to Improve and strengthen forest fire
management program (iii) to conserve biodiversity (Plant and Animal) (iv)to develop
livelihood options and adaptation strategies for forestry and ecosystem services and (v) to
enhance understanding of climate change impacts on biodiversity and ecosystem
services. The detailed actions based on the gaps, risks and vulnerabilities are given in
Table 6.
Page 24
Table 4: Adaptation Action Plan for Agriculture and Food Security
Agriculture and Food Security
Gaps, Risks and Vulnerabilities
Actions
Broad Action Areas
(AAA)
Biodiversity
Loss of Production (Crops and
Conservation
and Animals) to Biotic and Abiotic
Management
Stresses
Increased
Soil
and Nutrient
Losses
11th FYP
NAPA
Sustainable management of rangeland MoAF/04
and highland animals
√
Develop and demonstrate IPNM in
selected cropping system including SLM
technologies
Strengthen
in-situ
and
ex-situ
conservation of crop and livestock
germplasm
Promote adaptation measures to
conserve natural aquatic habitats and
species
Sustainable management and utilization
of fish and aquatic animal species in
riverine and natural water bodies
Develop and promote biotic and Abiotic
stress tolerant crop and fodder varieties
√
Loss of Production (Crops and
Animals) to Biotic and Abiotic
Stresses
Loss of Production (Crops and
Animals) to Biotic and Abiotic
Stresses
Loss of Production (Crops and
Animals) to Biotic and Abiotic
Stresses
Food Security and Loss of Production (Crops and
Poverty Alleviation
Animals) to Biotic and Abiotic
Stresses
Increased hardship and loss of Improving local breeds & traditional
livelihoods
of
Farming crops that have adapted to local climatic
Communities
stress and feed resources
MoAF/05
MoAF/02
MoAF/14
MoAF/01
MoAF/04
√
MoAF/01
MoAF/04
√
Focus on A Few Main Crops and Increase agriculture biomass through
Decreasing Crop and Product sustainable
crop
and
livestock
Diversity
intensification
and
diversification
(including horticulture crops and other
Page 25
Broad Action Areas
(AAA)
Agriculture and Food Security
Gaps, Risks and Vulnerabilities
Actions
11th FYP
NAPA
cereals)
Lack of capacity in addressing Strengthen the capacity of the MoAF/01
climate change
national seed programs (crop and
livestock)
for
enhancing
rural
accessibility
Increased
Soil
and Nutrient Optimize use of limited available natural MoAF/04
Losses
resources and reduce resource conflicts
and competition between sectors
through prioritizing land use system
based on cost benefit analysis
Develop
and
promote
improved MoAF/04
pastures,
plantations,
by-product
enrichment and ensiling technologies
including local feed resources
Develop and promote aquaculture for
enhancing livelihoods
New food safety parameters may Capacity building in
food safety
arise with the effect of climate measures (including drinking water)
change on food chain
consisting of inspection, analysis and
certification components
Forests
and Focus on A Few Main Crops and Integrate eco-tourism, agro-tourism
Ecosystem Services Decreasing Crop and Product including sport fishing in sustainable
Diversity
community development.
MoAF/11
(Biosecurity
n
Food
Safety
Programme)
Governance
Sustainability
MoAF/01
and Increased hardship and loss of Promote the use of minor cereals
livelihoods
of
Farming
√
Page 26
Broad Action Areas
(AAA)
Agriculture and Food Security
Gaps, Risks and Vulnerabilities
Actions
11th FYP
NAPA
Communities
Lack of convergence of policy and Enhance livestock productivity
practice
MoAF/04
Lack of capacity and awareness in Developing and piloting climate smart MoAF/01
addressing climate change
RNR programs
MoAF/04
MoAF/05
Focus on A Few Main Crops and Promotion of organic farming
Decreasing Crop and Product
Diversity
MoAF/01
MoAF/02
Emissions of Green House Gases Promotion of manure management and MoAF/04
from Farming
utilization e.g. bio gas
√
Focus on A Few Main Crops and Develop Mechanism for Payment of MoAF/07
Decreasing Crop and Product environmental
services
(PES)
to
Diversity
pastoral communities in high altitude
areas
Lack of capacity and awareness in Strengthening the local level institutions
addressing climate change
for enhancing production, management
and marketing eg farmers group
Natural
Disasters Lack of capacity and awareness in Strengthen infrastructures to maintain
and Infrastructure
addressing climate change
food reserve
Lack of Adequate Pest and Institutionalize
surveillance
and MoAF/04
Disease Surveillance System for forecasting system and containment
Crops and Livestock
mechanism for emerging plant and
animal diseases
√
Page 27
Broad Action Areas
(AAA)
Agriculture and Food Security
Gaps, Risks and Vulnerabilities
Actions
Lack of capacity and awareness in Enhance Bio-security
addressing climate change
animals and plants
11th FYP
facilities
NAPA
for MoAF/13
Lack of capacity and awareness in Improve accessibility for marketing and MoAF/02
addressing climate change
food distribution
MoAF/08
Lack of capacity and awareness in Improve accessibility for marketing and MoAF/02
addressing climate change
food distribution
MoAF/08
Emergence and spread of pests
and diseases, and introduction of
invasive alien species of plants
and animals
Stepping up of risk assessment,
management and communication for
effective regulation of pests and
diseases, and invasive alien species of
agricultural crops and livestock.
MoAF/11 (Biosecurity n Food
Safety
Programme)
Strengthening of post entry quarantine
facilities for effective bio-security
measures
MoAF/11 (Biosecurity n Food
Safety
Programme)
MoAF/11 (Biosecurity n Food
Safety
Programme)
MoAF/01
√
MoAF/02
MoAF/04
Enhance analytical and certification
capacity for agricultural and livestock
goods and food commodities, for local
and export market.
Research, Education Lack of comprehensive data and
Introduce/develop new breeds & crop
and Advocacy
knowledge
varieties that are adapted to climate
stress
Page 28
Broad Action Areas
(AAA)
Agriculture and Food Security
Gaps, Risks and Vulnerabilities
Actions
Focus on A Few Main Crops and Diversification,
intensification
or/or
Decreasing Crop and Product integration of pasture management
Diversity
including silvo pastoral system, livestock
and crop production
Lack of Adequate Pest and Develop IPM packages for important
Disease Surveillance System for crops
Crops and Livestock
11th FYP
MoAF/01
NAPA
√
MoAF/04
MoAF/01
MoAF/02
√
Lack of comprehensive data and Study impacts of climate change on MoAF/10
knowledge
livestock and agriculture
√
Lack of capacity and awareness in Extension
technologies/messages MoAF/15
addressing climate change
prepared for climate smart technologies
Lack of capacity and awareness in
addressing climate change
Create awareness on balanced diet
MoAF/11
Lack of capacity and awareness in Sustaining national initiatives on MoAF/11
addressing climate change
Climate Change through school youths
Lack of comprehensive data and Study the Impact of Climate change on MoAF/10
knowledge
crop and cropping systems
√
Lack of comprehensive data and Assessment of agriculture land use MoAF/10
knowledge
capability to enhance utility of land in
view of climate change
Lack of capacity and awareness in Developing web-based portal to MoAF/15
addressing climate change
disseminate information on climate
change initiatives
√
Page 29
Broad Action Areas
(AAA)
Agriculture and Food Security
Gaps, Risks and Vulnerabilities
Actions
Lack of capacity and awareness in Awareness on climate change and
addressing climate change
issues through AV Awareness on RNR
Acts ant its Rules & Regulations
Inadequate information system on Strengthen plant and animal bio-security
agriculture
and
livestock and food safety information system to
biosecurity and on food safety
enhance e governance (G2G, G2C, and
G2B)
Inadequate public awareness and Prioritize on public awareness and
advocacy activities on legislations advocacy of legislations and their
and their administrations
implementation
11th FYP
NAPA
MoAF/15
MoAF/11 (Biosecurity n Food
Safety
Programme)
MoAF/11 (Biosecurity n Food
Safety
Programme)
Increasing Scarcity of Water and Reconstruction of irrigation systems MoAF/01
√
Its Impact on Crop and Livestock (lining, better maintenance) to reduce MoAF/02
water loss (by as much as 50%) and
Water
Resources Production
apply advanced water-saving methods
Use, Access and
of irrigation
Management
Reduction in Water Yield and Improve
water
management
for MoAF/01
√
Deterioration of Quality
agriculture and livestock
Table 5: Adaptation Action Plan for Water Resources
Water Resources
Broad Action Areas Gaps, Risks and Vulnerabilities
(AAA)
Biodiversity
Loss of Wetland Ecosystem
Conservation and
Management
Food Security and Loss of Wetland Ecosystem
Poverty Alleviation
Actions
11 FYP
Valuation of freshwater and
terrestrial MoAF/06
ecosystems for conservation and adaptation
to cc and development
Conservation and improved management of MoAF/10
Forest and Wetland Ecosystem to MoAF/06
NAPA
√
Page 30
Water Resources
Broad Action Areas
(AAA)
Gaps, Risks and Vulnerabilities
Actions
11 FYP
NAPA
enhancing livelihoods
Forests
and Loss of Wetland Ecosystem
Management of wetlands and riverine
ecosystem services
ecosystem
Governance
and Lack of capacity and awareness in Watershed Management Planning
and
Sustainability
addressing climate change
implementation of activities in the critical
watersheds
Natural Disasters and
Infrastructure
Research, Education Lack of comprehensive data and Comprehensive water resources inventory;
and Advocacy
knowledge
mapping, assessment of the quality and
quantity of the major water sources for
various uses
Loss of Wetland Ecosystem
Inventory of all wetlands in the river basins
and significant wetlands identified
Lack of comprehensive data and Past-present-future Monsoon variability
knowledge
revealed by stable water isotopes:
combining observations and climate models
to assess its impacts on Bhutan
Lack of comprehensive data and Climate variability and its impact on
knowledge
hydropower/agriculture/biodiversity/water/he
alth
Lack of comprehensive data and General hydrologic responses to changes in
knowledge
different forest types
MoAF/06
MoAF/06
√
MoAF/06
MoAF/06
√
MoAF/05
√
MoAF/05
Lack of comprehensive data and Impacts of interacting factors on water MoAF/05
knowledge
quality and flow regime
√
Page 31
Water Resources
Broad Action Areas
(AAA)
Gaps, Risks and Vulnerabilities
Actions
11 FYP
NAPA
Reduction in Water Yield and Climate change impact on water scarcity for MoAF/05
Deterioration of Quality
drinking & irrigation
Lack of capacity and awareness in Awareness,
advocacy and
outreach
addressing climate change
program on water resources management
including water
Lack of capacity and awareness in Community involvement in Watershed/
addressing climate change
catchment protection and in decision making
processes
Lack of comprehensive data and Traditional
knowledge
and
local
knowledge
perspectives in adapting to the changing
climate
Increased Run-Off
Regular monitoring of lake levels, both
manually and through the satellite.
Increased Run-Off
Rehabilitation and restoration of silted lakes
Limited knowledge on the climate
trends and the history of glaciers in
Bhutan
Water
Resources Reduction in Water Yield and
Use, Access and Deterioration of Quality
Management
Reduction in Water Yield and
Deterioration of Quality
MoAF/05
√
MoAF/05
√
√
MoAF/05
MoAF/05
MoAF/05
Glacial History reconstruction in Bhutan
Himalayas
Impounding reservoirs for drinking water MoAF/05
supply in both urban and rural areas
Rain Water harvesting to prevent water MoAF/03
shortages
during
dry
periods
and
irregularities during the monsoons
√
Page 32
Table 6 : Adaptation Action Plan for Forest and Biodiversity
Forest and Biodiversity
Adaptation Action
Gaps, Risks and Vulnerabilities
Actions
11 FYP
Areas (AAA)
Biodiversity
Loss of Plant Species, Animal Breeds Ensure sustainable management and MoAF/014
Conservation
and and Agro-Biodiversity.
utilization of biodiversity
Management
Loss of Plant Species, Animal Breeds Conserve agro-biodiversity to promote MoAF/014
and Agro-Biodiversity.
adaptation to CC
NAPA
√
Increased Establishment of Invasive Develop and implement measures to MoAF/014
Species
protect natural ecosystems and agriculture
production against invasive species.
Loss of Plant Species, Animal Breeds Strengthen species conservation and MoAF/05
and Agro-Biodiversity.
management program to adapt to the
changing climate
Loss of Plant Species, Animal Breeds Strengthen regulatory risk assessment, MoAF/011
and Agro-Biodiversity.
management for trade of endangered
species and related restricted goods.
Increased Establishment of Invasive Enhance bio-security system and facilities MoAF/011
Species
necessary for prevention of introduction of
invasive alien species of plants and
animals into the environment
Food Security and Loss of
Livelihoods,
Poverty Alleviation
Knowledge and Practices
Traditional
Enhance resilience of local community MoAF/05
towards CC and improvement of rural
livelihood through increased income from
sustainable use of Natural resources and
ecosystem services
√
Page 33
Adaptation Action
Areas (AAA)
Forest and Biodiversity
Gaps, Risks and Vulnerabilities
Actions
Loss of
Livelihoods,
Knowledge and Practices
Traditional Enhance analytical and certification
capacity for Non-Timber Forest Products
(NTFPs) for phyto-sanitary/organic status
and food safety
Lack of capacity and awareness in Establishment of Crop and Livestock
addressing climate change
Insurance Schemes
Loss of
Livelihoods,
Traditional Develop livelihood options and adaptation
Knowledge and Practices
strategies for forestry and forestry
ecosystems
Forests
and Increased Incidences of Pests and Control and manage increased incidences
Ecosystem Services
Diseases
of pests and diseases
Disturbance
of
Ecosystem
and Prepare
and
implement
REDD+
Ecosystem Services
Mechanisms (REDD+ Policy & Strategy
Dev.)
Disturbance
of
Ecosystem
and Reforestation
and
rehabilitation
of
Ecosystem Services
degraded forest and critical watersheds
Increased Incidences of Pests and Enhance biosecurity measures for
Diseases
prevention of introduction of exotic pests,
diseases of plants and animals into the
environment.
Governance
Sustainability
and Disturbance
of
Ecosystem
Ecosystem Services
Increasing Risk of Forest Fire
11 FYP
NAPA
MoAF/011
√
MoAF/05
√
MoAF/05
√
MoAF/06
MoAF/05
√
MoAF/011
and Strengthen
the
functionality
and MoAF/06
management of protected area systems
and biological corridors under changing
climate.
Improve and strengthen forest fire MoAF/07
management program, taking into account
the changing climatic conditions.
√
√
Page 34
Adaptation Action
Areas (AAA)
Forest and Biodiversity
Gaps, Risks and Vulnerabilities
Actions
Lack of capacity and awareness in Promote good governance in forestry and
addressing climate change
sustainable Forest Management through
participatory and science based approach
in the face of climate change
Lack of convergence of policy and Enhance Co-ordination among various
practice
sectors/agencies for sharing Technical
and infrastructural facilities for NRM
Lack of comprehensive data and Document and mainstream community
knowledge
based IKS (indigenous
knowledge
system) on CC adaptation and mitigation
Lack of capacity in addressing climate Develop and establish national forest
change
monitoring systems( National Forest
Inventory and MRV of REDD Mechanisms
Lack of comprehensive data and Assessment and monitoring of Carbon
knowledge
Stock for Bhutan
Loss of
Livelihoods,
Knowledge and Practices
11 FYP
MoAF/07
NAPA
√
MoAF/07
MoAF/14
MoAF/05
MoAF/05
Traditional Strengthen community practices in natural MoAF/14
resource management
Natural Disasters and Lack of capacity and awareness in Develop appropriate infrastructures for MoAF/05
Infrastructure
addressing climate change
better responding to CC disasters
√
Lack of capacity and awareness in Increase/strengthen community seed bank MoAF/14
addressing climate change
to address disaster related to CC
Page 35
Adaptation Action
Areas (AAA)
Forest and Biodiversity
Gaps, Risks and Vulnerabilities
Actions
11 FYP
NAPA
Lack of capacity and awareness in Develop rapid response system for MoAF/11
addressing climate change
containment of pandemic outbreak of
pests and diseases in plant and animals
and zoonitic diseases
Research, Education Lack of comprehensive data and Study the mountain phenology and the MoAF/05
and Advocacy
knowledge
effects of climate change
Lack of comprehensive
knowledge
data
and Gather
comprehensive
data
and
information on biological diversity and
climate parameters
Lack of capacity and awareness in Establishment and monitoring of Climate
addressing climate change
stations ( data loggers) , and permanent
sampling plots along major ecological
zone
Lack of comprehensive data and Reconstruction of Fire history and
knowledge
Monsoon Climate through tree ring
analysis
Lack of comprehensive data and To enhance understanding of climate
knowledge
change impacts on biodiversity and
ecosystem services.
Lack of capacity and awareness in Adaptation of commercial trees and
addressing climate change
important NWFPs in the face of climate
change
Lack of comprehensive data and Assess
Forest
vulnerability
and
knowledge
Adaptability to Climate Change
MoAF/05
√
MoAF/07
√
MoAF/06
MoAF/06
√
MoAF/06
√
MoAF/06
√
Lack of capacity in addressing climate Awareness on climate change and issues MoAF/14
change
through AV (documentary, MTV, radio
programs, penal discussion and debates)
√
Page 36
Adaptation Action
Areas (AAA)
Forest and Biodiversity
Gaps, Risks and Vulnerabilities
Actions
Lack of comprehensive
knowledge
data
11 FYP
NAPA
and Study on the impact of CC on native MoAF/14
endemic and threatened plants
Lack of capacity in addressing climate To establish and maintain a pests and
change
diseases surveillance and monitoring
systems in both plants and animals
Lack of capacity in addressing climate To enhance effects of climate change on
change
dynamics of pests and diseases in
animals and plants
Water
Resources Lack of capacity and awareness in Watershed Management Planning and
Use, Access and addressing climate change
implementation of activities in the critical
Management
watersheds
Loss of Wetland Ecosystem
Conserve wetlands in the headwater
catchment areas as continual source of
pure water, habitat for biodiversity,
spiritual and cultural asset and for other
ecosystem services
Loss of Wetland Ecosystem
Ramsar declaration and development of
management plan
MoAF/11
MoAF/11
MoAF/06
√
MoAF/06
√
MoAF/06
Page 37
7.0
Implementation Mechanism
7.1 Organisation, Management and Administration
7.1.1 Programme Management
General Organisation and Management
Climate Change mainstreaming has been one of the key policy directives for the 11th
FYP. The sector being the custodian of the country’s Natural resources, there will be
increasing obligations for the sector to pursue mitigation and adaptation initiatives.
Consequently, there will be increased climate change related planning and
implementation at both local and national levels. In this context the RNR SAPA which
consolidates interventions proposed in the 11th Plan serves as the strategy to mainstream
climate change mitigation and adaptation for the 11th Plan and beyond.
Recognizing the need to establish proper coordination for effectively implementing the
RNR-SAPA, the Council for RNR Research of Bhutan (CoRRB) as the apex body of RNR
research and as the coordinating agency for the climate change initiatives is aptly placed
to facilitate implementation of RNR SAPA.
Management and Coordination
The implementation framework for RNR SAPA is schematically represented in Figure 4.
As the coordinating agency for climate change initiatives, CoRRB will be the overall lead
to coordinate with all stakeholders to facilitate the implementation of the RNR SAPA.
While the sector specific actions under the RNR SAPA will be implemented by the
relevant departments/agencies, relevant cross sectoral actions like for instance
awareness campaigns will be implemented by the CoRRB.
Page 38
Figure 4: RNR SAPA Planning and Implementation Framework
Page 39
7.1.2 Fund sourcing and management
CoRRB with the concurrence of MoAF and GNHC, will access different windows for
donor funding to implement SAPA plan of actions. The efforts for support will be sought
both on thematic and cross-thematic basis. While the supports will be channelled as
sector support program, project modes of interventions will also be an option.
CoRRB will communicate the clearance of the project proposal and fund to the
proponents, who will then include in the annual budget proposal of respective agency.
The accountability for utilization of the approved fund will rest on the recipient agency.
7.1.3 Project development, submission and screening
All the stakeholders within the approved 11th plan and RNR SAPA will develop specific
projects and submit through respective directorate to CORRB (Refer Project proposal
format Annexure 2) 3 months prior to annual budgeting exercise. The proposal will be
screened by SAPA -TC following the screening criteria (Annex 1.) and communicate the
decision within a week to the proponent (department).
7.1.4 Monitoring and evaluation, progress reporting and reviews
CoRRB within the PLAMS framework will modulate the planning, monitoring and
evaluation of climate change actions by the recipient agencies. A quarterly reporting
system will be used which the designated focal persons will update the coordinating
agency. CoRRB in consultation with the stakeholders will also organize monitoring visits
to actually see the actions in the field and document the progress. In parallel, CoRRB will
also request SAPA -TC to make rapid appraisals of some of the action areas and propose
the way forward as and when required.
CoRRB based on the quarterly reports will prepare the comprehensive report and submit
to MoAF for further circulation to the government and the donor.
Given that climate change challenges are evolving with time, there is a need to identify
and implement adaptation actions in tandem. Therefore, the SAPA -TC will review and
update the RNR SAPA on an annual basis.
Page 40
Annex 1: Criteria and Questionnaire for screening the Project proposal
No.
Criteria
1 Relevance to Climate Change
2 Linkage to SKRAs (11th FYP)
3 Linkage to SAPA
4 Base of Beneficiaries
5 Implementation Capacity
6 Expected Impact on the Project Objectives
7 Time frame
8 Size of Budget
Questionnaire for Screening the Proposal
No
Criteria
1*)
2
3
4*)
1 Relevance
to
Will not
climate change
contribute to
reduce
negative
impact of
climate
change
Do not know
Will contribute
to reduce
negative impact
of climate
change
1
Will have no
linkage with
SKRAs ( 11th
FYP)
1
Will have no
linkage with
SAPA
2
Do not know
Will not have
any
appreciable
contribution
to reduce
negative
impact of
climate change
3
Will have
some linkages
4
Will have strong
linkages
2
Do not know
3
Will have
some linkages
4
Will have
strong linkages
1
Will have no
benefits to
the
stakeholders/
population
2
Do not know
on the impact
on
stakeholders/
population
4
Will have
positive impact
on the
stakeholders/
population
1
Do not have
any
implementing
capacity
1
Will not have
any impact
on the
objectives
2
Do not know
3
Will not have
any
appreciable
impact on the
stakeholders/
population
3
Have some
implementing
capacity
4
Have adequate
implementing
capacity
3
Will not have
any
appreciable
impact on the
4
Will have
positive impact
on the
objectives
2 Linkages
SKRAs
FYP)
3 Linkage
SAPA
to
(11th
with
4 Base
of
Beneficiaries
5 Implementation
Capacity
6 Expected
Impacts on the
Project's
Objectives
2
Do not know
Page 41
1
Will go
beyond 3-4
years
1
8 Size of Budget
Budget very
high in
relation to
the expected
outputs
1=Lowest
4=Highest
7 Time frame
2
Do not know
2
Do not know
objectives
3
Will not go
beyond 34years
3
Budget
slightly higher
in relation to
the expected
outputs
4
Will end in 3-4
years
4
Budget in line
to the expected
outputs
Page 42
Annex 2: Project proposal Format
PP1 (a)
Project Proposal
On
“XYZ”
For
GCCA Funding
‘Thematic Area title: Adaptation Action Area title’
Prepared by
XYZ
Month and Year
Page 43
1 (a) wherein 1 would be
PCN
thematic area (1 Food
Code
Number : Security, 2 Forests and
Biodiversity,
3
Water
Security)
(a) Would be
sequencing of the
projects under each
theme
A.
General:
Climate
Change Highlight the CC issue/concern (example below)
Issue/concern
Inadequate human resources capacity in the areas of
climate change adaptation for ensuring food security
National Strategy for Highlight the National strategy (example below)
Climate
Change Capacity building for climate change adaptation
Adaptation
Link to National Key The project is expected to contribute to :
Result Areas
(list the relevant NKRAs)
Sector Programme for Name of the programme (this should be in Sync with the
Climate
Change 11FYP)
Adaptation
(it is proposed that the title of the relevant thematic area
can be reproduced here)
Link to Sector Key The Project is linked to :
Result Areas
(list the SKRAs)
Thematic Area under
the SAPA
Broad
Adaptation
Action Area under the
SAPA
Title of the Project
B.
Project Details:
Project Title
Thematic Area
Priority Area
Beneficiaries
Total Cost of the
Project [in Nu.]
Duration
of
the
Project (in months)
Page 44
Project’s Purpose
Define the purpose of the Project.
(proposed for a word limit of 300-500 words)
Project’s Rationale/Justification
Define Project Rationale or Justification.
(Proposed for a word limit of 300-500 words)
Project Objectives and Outcomes
List the Objectives and specify the broad outcomes (maintain link to RNR 11FYP and
the RNR SAPA)
Project Outputs
Outline the Project outputs (ensure linkage to the 11FYP and SAPA)
Project Activities
List the key activities
Beneficiaries
List the beneficiaries (example below)
(i)
Primary Beneficiaries: Small and marginal farmers of resource poor areas
and agricultural labourers.
(ii)
Secondary Beneficiaries (Relevant Stakeholders and other
Beneficiaries): The impact of such activities is likely to have effect on the
farmers of neighbouring areas, researchers, extension workers, workers of
other development departments, research and extension institutions,
development partners etc.
Page 45
Major Risks and Assumptions
Define the major risks and assumptions
Project Log Frame
NARRATIVE SUMMARY
OBJECTIVELY
VERIFIABLE
INDICATOR (OVI)
MEANS OF
VERIFICATIO
N (MOV)
IMPORTANT
RISKS AND
ASSUMPTIONS
Goal:
Purpose:
Outputs:
List the outputs (one in
each cell)
1.
2.
3.
4. (add cells based on the
number of outputs)
Activities:
List down the major activities in conjunction with the above outputs.
1.1, 1.2,1.3 … (for output 1)
2.1, 2.2, 2.3 … (for output 2) and so on.
Estimates of Costs by Activity
(if possible present a summary of project cost estimates)
Page 46
Time Line of the Project by Activity
Activity
I Year
II Year
1.1
X
X
1.2
X
X
2.1
X
X
III Year
IV
Year
X
2.2
X
X
X
3.1
X
X
X
3.2
X
X
4.1
X
X
4.2
X
X
Budget Details of the Project by RGOB budget heads
Project Activities
RGOB Budget heads
Budget Amount (mil. Nu)
Recurrent
Capital
Total by Budget Category
Total Budget (recurrent + Capital)
Page 47
References
Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP), 2009. Ministry of Agriculture, Royal Government of
Bhutan.
Campbell, A., Kapos, V., Scharlemann, J.P.W., Bubb, P., Chenery, A., Coad,L., Dickson,
B., Doswald, N., Khan, M.S.I., Kershaw, F., and Rashid, M., 2009. Review of literature on
the Links between Biodiversity and Climate Change: Impacts, Adaptation and Mitigation.
Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity, Montreal. Technical Series No.42.
Chettri, N, Sharma, E., Shakya, B., Thapa, R., Bajracharya, B., Uddin, K., Oli, K.P., &
Choudhury, D. 2010: Biodiversity in the Eastern Himalayas; Status, Trends and
Vulnerability to Climate Change: Climate Change Impact and Vulnerability in the Eastern
Himalayas- Technical Report 2, ICIMOD.
Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) Secretariat, 2009. Connecting Biodiversit
and Climate change mitigation and adaptation; Report of the 2ndAdhoc Technical Expert
Group on Biodiversity and Climate change, Montreal, Technical Series No. 41.
FAO. 2011. Biodiversity for Food and Agriculture: Contributing to food security and
sustainability in a changing world.
Gitay, H., Suarez A., Watson, R.T., Dokken, D.J., (eds.), 2002. Intergovernmental
Panel on Climate Change, Technical paper V.
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MoAF (2011) Bhutan Climate Summit 2011 Impacts of Climate Change on Food Security,
a country Paper for Bhutan Climate Summit 2011, Ministry of Agriculture and Forests,
Ministry of Agriculture and Forests, Thimphu
MoAF (2011) National Action Plan Biodiversity Persistence and climate change – a
country paper for Bhutan Climate summit 2011, Ministry of Agriculture and Forests,
Thimhu
NEC (2011) Securing the Natural Freshwater systems of the Bhutan - Climate Change
and Adaptation measures -Water Resources in Bhutan a country paper for climate
summit 2011m. National Environment Commission, Royal Government of Bhutan
NEC (2012) National Adaptation Programme of Action (NAP): Update of Projects and
Profiles 2012 National Environment Commission, Royal Government of Bhutan
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