Gangtey-Phobjikha faces growing waste challenge amid tourism boom

Chencho Dema

Phobjikha—As the valleys of Gangtey and Phobjikha in Wangdue continue to draw more visitors each year, a pressing challenge is emerging: waste.

Despite community efforts and regular clean-up campaigns, unmanaged litter and pressure on limited waste infrastructure now threaten not only the region’s ecosystem—home to the endangered Black-Necked Crane (BNC)—but also its goal of becoming a model for sustainable tourism in Bhutan.

Beyond its tourism appeal, the Gangtey-Phobji Ramsar site is Bhutan’s largest wetland of international importance and a wintering ground for the endangered BNC.

Residents are increasingly concerned that the rise in visitors, especially those picnicking near the wetlands, could disrupt the delicate habitat. Noise, litter, and human intrusion risk undermining conservation efforts and may drive the cranes away from one of their few remaining sanctuaries.

The Gangtey-Phobji Environment Monitoring Committee (GPEMC), formed by the Royal Society for Protection of Nature (RSPN), supports conservation through activities such as the Black-Necked Crane Festival and clean-up campaigns. However, these events occur only once a year and have limited long-term impact.

To share responsibility for environmental management, five-star hotels contribute Nu 10,000 annually, mid-range hotels Nu 3,000, and homestays Nu 1,000. This structure ensures all tourism stakeholders contribute to preserving the valley’s environment.

Local communities also conduct monthly cleaning campaigns on the 30th day of every Bhutanese calendar month. Each household sends one representative for designated waste collection, with fines for non-participation. Despite these efforts, litter remains visible in parts of the valley.

Residents often point to hotel operations as a source of the growing waste problem, citing increased tourist arrivals. Hoteliers argue they manage waste through segregation, composting, and regular transport to the landfill.

Choki Wangchuk of Gangtey Lodge said: “We tell our staff to separate waste into categories like food waste, bottles, cans, and other materials. Items that can be sold are collected and stored separately before being sold. We also compost our organic waste to reduce landfill impact. During the tourist season, we hire a tractor to transport waste and send it to the landfill twice a week.”

Phobjikha Gup Jamtsho suggested installing a machine that offers cash for bottles and cans, which he believes would motivate people to collect recyclables instead of littering. Dorji Dendup of Gangtey noted that hotel staff joining locals in cleaning efforts would ease the burden and reinforce shared responsibility.

Residents said they do their best to keep the valley clean despite farming schedules, though some waste still ends up scattered.

Namgyal Dorji, Minister of Industry, Commerce and Employment (MoICE), acknowledged the issue during the Meet-the-Press session.

“Despite community efforts like clean-ups and volunteer work, the growing waste—fueled by tourism, business growth, and population increase—has overwhelmed the existing waste management system,” he said

The minister stated that MoICE, in partnership with the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources and other stakeholders, supports the Gangtey-Phobji Ramsar Site Management Plan 2025–2034.

“One key action is restructuring the GPEMC. The committee will be given clearer mandates, defined monitoring roles, and better coordination to improve waste governance,” he said.

Wangdue Dzongkhag plans to build a sanitary landfill and acquire waste collection equipment, including a garbage truck and compactor, to improve transport and disposal. Awareness campaigns and training for women and youth will promote community-led waste reduction and recycling.

Assessments for installing sewage and wastewater treatment facilities in hotels, homestays, and public areas are underway to protect wetlands and groundwater. Waste segregation at source will be implemented through color-coded bins, and monthly audits and monitoring by GPEMC will enforce compliance.

The Department of Tourism will work with partners to maintain cleanliness on trekking routes through clean-up campaigns.

Residents of Gangtey and Phobjikha say they want their valley to be known not just for its landscape and the Black-Necked Crane, but as a clean, responsible tourist destination. Their vision is clear: a waste-free community committed to sustainability.