Bhutan, a small Himalayan kingdom, is widely recognized for its commitment to the environment and carbon-negative status. With vast forest cover, low population density, and strict conservation laws, Bhutan’s air is generally among the cleanest in South Asia.
However, the capital Thimphu and some valleys face localized air quality challenges due to traffic, wood burning, and topographical conditions that trap pollutants.
Thimphu, the capital, is growing rapidly and has the country’s highest concentration of vehicles. While its AQI is often “Good,” winter heating and traffic congestion can push levels higher, especially in the valley where the city is located.
Bhutan’s pollution sources are relatively limited but include:
Bhutan is unique in being the world’s only carbon-negative country, absorbing more CO₂ than it emits thanks to its extensive forests. The constitution requires that at least 60% of the land remains forested permanently.
The government also promotes hydropower (exported to India), clean cooking technologies, and is beginning to support the adoption of electric vehicles in Thimphu to cut traffic emissions.
Traditionally, Bhutanese households relied heavily on wood for heating and cooking, causing localized smoke pollution. In recent years, cleaner alternatives and urban planning have improved conditions in Thimphu and other towns.
Looking ahead, Bhutan’s strong conservation ethic and focus on Gross National Happiness ensures that protecting clean air remains a national priority, even as urbanization grows.
Bhutan is one of the very few nations where forests cover the majority of the land, and where the environment is central to policy. Visitors often remark on the fresh, unpolluted mountain air, making Bhutan a rare clean-air sanctuary in South Asia.