Ecological conservation and restoration in Bhutan

Bhutan is recognized as a hotspot of biodiversity and an eco-friendly country. Forests cover 70% of the total landarea and are important for the livelihood of the people and economy of the country. However, climate change, steep and rugged terrain, urbanization, infrastructure development and natural disasters are degrading the landscape and environment. This chapter reviews the ecology, conservation policies and livelihoods of the country. Implementation of national policies, laws, international treaties, agreements and declarations on the conservation and management of ecosystems could be the key for sustainable conservation and restoration of those systems. Focus should be placed on the preservation of ecosystem services, socio-ecological projects, diversifcation of livelihoods and sustainable food security. Ecotourism could be important for employment opportunities and the economy, for diversifcation of livelihoods and for improving socio-economic status.