Chhimi Dorji holds an MSc in Environmental Systems – Energy, Environment and Society, from, California State University, Humboldt, USA (2010). His prior degrees are Bachelor in Civil Engineering from Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology (MNNIT) from India (2004), and a postgraduate course in Energy Planning and Sustainable Development from the University of Oslo, Norway in 2008. Chhimi has worked in the USA as a researcher and Bhutan as a civil servant for a decade. Since the last 8 years, he has been working as a consultant on Education, Energy, Environment, Waste, and Water Resources projects in Bhutan and other countries in south Asia. Chhimi’s recent work includes working for the Asian Development Bank; UNDP; Austrian development Agency; IFAD; WMO; World Bank; WWF Bhutan; private companies and Government of Bhutan on various Projects on Waste, Education, Energy, Engineering, environment and water resources. In recent years Chhimi has also worked as an External Evaluator and Adjunct Faculty for College of Science and Technology (2012-2014, 2022); Lecturer at Royal Thimphu College (2016); Resident Lecturer for School for Field Studies (USA 2012); and provided seminars at Sherubtse College, Jigme Namgyal Engineering College, College of Science and Technology and College of Natural Resources in 2023. Chhimi also works as CEO for EduYoung Happyness Education Consultancy and Placement Firm and ChhimiD Consulting; and Technical Advisor to Ludrong Training Institute, Ludrong Hotel and Selme Consulting.
Transforming Waste into Wealth: Pioneering Composting and Circular Economy Solutions for a Greener Bhutan.
Bhutan is confronting significant challenges in waste management, intensified by rapid urbanization and increasing waste generation. This paper presents a focused exploration of composting wet waste and enhancing the circular economy through private sector involvement in recycling and reuse. These initiatives are essential for addressing climate change impacts while promoting sustainable development in the country. The National Waste Management Strategy, launched in 2019, aims for "zero waste" by 2030, emphasizing effective waste segregation, recycling, and composting practices. The government's regulatory framework, including the Waste Management Act 2009 and Waste Prevention and Management Regulation of 2012, supports these goals by promoting waste minimization across various sectors. The paper will highlight the benefits of composting as a sustainable method for managing organic waste, showcasing successful case studies such as the Takakura Method, which processes food waste into compost. Additionally, it will explore strategies to engage the private sector in recycling and reuse initiatives, examining existing incentives provided by the government to encourage participation, and options for recycling projects. Key strategies will include highlight about the importance of composting and recycling, fostering partnerships between government agencies and private enterprises to develop innovative solutions, and advocating for policy reforms that support sustainable practices. The expected outcomes of these initiatives include increased rates of composting wet waste, reduced landfill usage, lower greenhouse gas emissions, strengthened circular economy efforts, and improved public engagement in sustainable waste management practices. Ultimately, this presentation aims to provide actionable insights into developing a more sustainable approach to waste management that aligns with Bhutan’s national goals of carbon neutrality and environmental conservation. There will also be take away messages for students, researchers and practitioners on the issues and findings.