This conference aims to foster interdisciplinary dialogue and promote sustainable and innovative solutions for transforming agriculture, food, the environment, climate, and development in Bhutan and the region. The event will bring together researchers, policymakers, practitioners, and community stakeholders to share knowledge, discuss challenges, and explore actionable strategies that align with Bhutan’s Gross National Happiness (GNH) framework and environmental sustainability goals. The conference will provide a valuable platform for sharing current research and insights, facilitating the exchange of knowledge and best practices. We aim to create an inclusive environment that encourages active participation and engagement throughout the program.

🎯 Objectives of the Conference

  • Share and disseminate cutting-edge research findings on sustainable agriculture, food systems, environment, and climate resilience.
  • Promote innovative research and practices that address regional and global development challenges.
  • Facilitate knowledge exchange among academia, policymakers, practitioners, and communities.
  • Enable meaningful connections and establish groundwork for future collaborations between researchers and practitioners.

🌐 Subthemes

  • Agriculture: Climate-smart farming, agroecology, soil and water management, agricultural policy.
  • Climate Resilience: Adaptation strategies, nature-based solutions, climate policy, indigenous knowledge.
  • Forest & Natural Resource: Community forestry, ecosystem services, forest restoration, biodiversity conservation.
  • Food & Nutrition Security: Nutrition-sensitive agriculture, food systems, food safety, post-harvest management.
  • Livelihoods & Rural Innovation: Rural entrepreneurship, youth and women empowerment, access to finance, digital innovation.
  • Environment & Biodiversity: Pollution control, ecosystem restoration, environmental governance, urban ecology.
  • Livestock & One Health: Animal health, zoonoses, sustainable livestock systems, antimicrobial resistance.

👥 Who Should Attend?

  • Researchers and Academics in sustainable development, agriculture, environment, and climate change.
  • Policymakers and Government Officials shaping national and regional strategies.
  • Practitioners and Development Professionals in agriculture, forestry, nutrition, and livelihoods.
  • Community Leaders and Indigenous Knowledge Holders promoting local solutions.
  • Students and early career researchers seeking research and networking opportunities.

🇧🇹 Why in Bhutan?

Bhutan offers a unique setting for international dialogue on sustainable development. It is the only carbon-negative country in the world and exemplifies how environmental conservation can be harmonised with human well-being. National development is guided by the holistic philosophy of Gross National Happiness (GNH), which places ecological integrity, cultural preservation, equitable socio-economic progress, and good governance at its core.

With its pristine natural environment, diverse agroecological zones, and strong community-based resource management systems, Bhutan provides an ideal living laboratory to explore cutting-edge solutions in climate-resilient agriculture, food and nutrition security, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable rural livelihoods.

At the same time, the country is undergoing a period of rapid transformation. Urbanisation, youth migration, evolving food systems, and growing climate-related risks are presenting complex challenges to the normal ways of life. These emerging crises call for fresh thinking, inclusive policy responses, and evidence-based solutions.

Hosting this conference in Bhutan offers participants a rare opportunity to engage with a country at a critical juncture—where ancient wisdom meets modern transition, and where sustainability is more than a goal; it is a national ethos.

Set in the scenic Punakha Valley, the venue at the College of Natural Resources ensures a memorable and enriching experience for all.

✨ Join us in Bhutan! ✨