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1. Impact of Climate Change on Communities in Phobji and Gangtey valley in Bhutan

Author:
Tshering Yangden
Publication Date:
06-2023
Content Type:
Journal Article
Journal:
Journal of Bhutan Studies
Institution:
Centre for Bhutan & GNH Studies (CBS)
Abstract:
While Bhutan is a carbon-negative country, it still is under constant threats of climate change as it compasses global warming. The most significant impact is the melting of glaciers which has led to the loss of livelihoods including human lives. As Bhutan is a country with dramatic variations of elevation with hot and humid weather in the south to cooler regions in the north, different regions are subjected to different impacts of climate change. Using a qualitative method of research, this study examines the impact of climate change in Phobji and Gangtey Valley under Wangdue Phodrang district in Bhutan, a popular tourist and conservation spot. Previous studies in the same place have concentrated on the impact of climate change on conservation efforts and no studies have been found on the impact of climate change on other forms. This study found that climate change impacted crop cultivation, livestock, gender, and food security. Besides the negative impacts, positive impacts such as the introduction of a new variety of vegetables in greenhouses due to the rise in temperature that leads to improvement of food security have been observed.
Topic:
Climate Change, Food Security, Livelihoods, and Gender
Political Geography:
South Asia and Bhutan

2. Yak Herding as the Main Source of Livelihood: Examining Challenges and Opportunities of Highlanders in Bhutan

Author:
Sonam Wangdi, Kelly Tobden Dorji Tamang, Pelden Wangchuk, and Sherub
Publication Date:
06-2023
Content Type:
Journal Article
Journal:
Journal of Bhutan Studies
Institution:
Centre for Bhutan & GNH Studies (CBS)
Abstract:
Yak farming is the mainstays of nomadic herders’ economy in Bhutan. However, it has declined over the years despite diverse government interventions. Rapid socio-economic development and access to economic opportunities further hindered yak farming culture rather than helping to maintain highlanders’ livelihood. The study was carried out in four gewogs, Chhoekhor, Sephu, Merak and Sakteng, that depends on yaks for their living. Questionnaire based semi-structured interview was conducted to identify the main challenges and opportunities of yak herding within the different regions and examined the cost-benefit of herding yaks within the premises of nomadic herder’s livelihood sustenance. The study revealed that yak farming generates sufficient income to support the herders’ livelihood even though the profit margin was minimal. Around 90% of herders earned cash income from yaks. Dry cheese was the main revenue generator of Chhoekhor and Sephu, while fermented cheese earnt the highest income in Merak and Sephu. Yaks not only serve as the primary source of livelihood but also acts as a catalyst to generate additional income by gaining access to natural resources such as Cordyceps and herbal medicines. However, increased wildlife depredation on yaks and inadequate pastureland coupled with poor modern amenities threatened yak farming. The findings showed a declining trend in total yak population and number of yak-owning households particularly in Chhoekhor and Sephu compared to Merak and Sakteng. The future of yak farming in Bhutan is uncertain, but there is potential to address the challenges and ensure its continued importance to Bhutanese highlanders.
Topic:
Socioeconomics, Livelihoods, Income, Animal Husbandry, and Yak Farming
Political Geography:
South Asia and Bhutan