Schedule
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DAY 1: Conference – Pathways to regenerative tourism
Opening Ceremony
Traditional blessings and keynote addresses
Opening Ceremony
Traditional blessings and keynote addresses
08:30 – 09:00
Reception of Chief Guest
Welcoming dignitaries
09:00 – 09:45
Marchang Ceremony
Traditional Bhutanese purification ceremony
09:45 – 10:00
Welcome Address
Opening remarks by DOT
10:00 – 10:20
Keynote Address by Chief Guest
High-level address on the importance of Regenerative Bhutan Forum and Sustainable Tourism in Bhutan..
10:25 – 11:05
Keynote Address
Anna Pollock – Regenerative Tourism Framework
+ Green Hotel Standard Launch
+ Vote of Thanks
Plenary Session
Global and National Perspectives on Regenerative Tourism
Plenary Session
Global and National Perspectives on Regenerative Tourism
11:30 – 12:05
International Perspective
Anna Pollock – Global insights on regenerative tourism
12:05 – 12:35
Bhutan's Vision
Director, Department of Tourism
12:35 – 13:00
Interactive Q&A
Open discussion with speakers
Afternoon Panel Sessions
Expert insights and audience engagement
Afternoon Panel Sessions
Expert insights and audience engagement
Panel 1: Carbon Calculation
Moderator: Robin Boustead
14:00 – 14:25
Speaker Introductions
- Introduction by Mr. Chimi Dorji, Environment Officer, Department of Environment and Climate Change (DECC)
- Introduction by Mr.Sonam Wangdi, Chief Forestry Officer, Nature Conservation Division (NCD)
- Introduction by Mr. Nipatpong Chuanchuen, Thai Ecotourism Specialist
14:25 – 14:45
Panel Discussion & Q&A
Panel 2: Green Tourism Standards
Moderator: Sonam Dorji and Rinchen Tshering
14:45 – 15:15
Speaker Introductions
- Introduction by Mr. Rinzin Jamtsho, Chief Tourism Officer, Department of Tourism, Bhutan.
Introduction by Mr. Karma Tshetrim, Chief of Standardisation, Bhutan Standard Bureau
Introduction by Mr. Masaru Takayama, Founding Chair, Asian Ecotourism Network
15:15 – 15:30
Panel Discussion & Q&A
Panel 3: Greener Supply Chains
Moderator: John Hummel
16:00 – 16:30
Speaker Introductions
- Introduction by Mr. Tandin Sangay Wangchuk, Dumra Farm Resort
Introduction by Ms. Tshering Choden, AmA
Introduction by Ms. Anu Lama, ICIMOD Tourism Specialist
Introduction by Ms. Sonia Teruel, Founder/ Director, The RegenLab for Travel, UK/ Spain
16:25 – 16:45
Panel Discussion & Q&A
Sustainable procurement and circular economy principles
Panel 4: Green Branding and Marketing
Moderator: Phuntsho Gyeltshen (DOT)
16:45 – 17:20
Speaker Introductions
- Introduction by Mr. Damcho Rinzin, Director, Department of Tourism, Bhutan.
Introduction by Mr.Deepak Raj Joshi, Nepal Tourism Board
Introduction by Mr.Manoj Kumar Matta, Indian Association of Tour Operators.
Introduction Mr. Kumar Mani Thapaliya, Nepal Association of Tour and Travel Agents.
17:20 – 17:35
Panel Discussion & Q&A
Green branding, storytelling, and ethical marketing
Wrap-Up & Reflections
Day 1 conclusion and feedback
Wrap-Up & Reflections
Day 1 conclusion and feedback
17:35 – 17:40
Digital Evaluation
Mobile-based feedback form completion
17:40 – 17:45
Session Summary
Key takeaways and Day 2 preview by Kezang (DOT)
17:45 – 18:00
Vote of Thanks
Closing appreciation by Ms.Thuji (SUSTOUR Bhutan)
Evening Program
Gala dinner and cultural celebration
Evening Program
Gala dinner and cultural celebration
19:00 onwards
Gala Dinner
🍽️Hosted dinner with cultural performances
🤝Networking opportunities
📝Signing ceremony with regional tourism associations (ABTO)
🏆Awards for Bhutan’s greenest enterprises
DAY 2: Four quarter day workshops/training courses on Circular Thriving Economy (carbon calculations and national green standards), Community Well-Being (greener supply chains?) and Purposeful Communication (Green Branding and Marketing)
Objectives
Objectives
- Train and interact regarding the proposed themes of the three-days conference: Highlighting good practices (carbon calculations and national green standards), greening supply chains and empowering guests (green communication and branding)
- Compare theme results with initiatives in the region; Interactive sharing of theme results with participants of the region
Five parallel sessions
Five parallel sessions
- Nature and Culture Conservation
- Carbon Calculation
- Green Tourism Standards
- Greener Supply Chains
- Green Branding and Marketing
Participants can participate in any of the above sessions on a rotation basis.
9:30 – 11:00
Nature and Culture Conservation
Moderator: Sonia & Anna
Hall/Room: 1
Carbon Calculation
Robin & Nipatpong Chuanchuen
Hall/Room: 2
Green Tourism Standards
Moderator: Sonam & Rinzin
Hall/Room: 3
11:30 – 13:30
Nature and Culture Conservation
Moderator: Sonia & Anna
Hall/Room: 1
Greener Supply Chains
Moderator: John & Chorten
Hall/Room: 2
Green Branding & Marketing
Moderator: Guido & Phuntsho
Hall/Room: 3
14:00 – 15:30
Carbon Calculation
Moderator: Robin & Nipatpong Chuanchuen
Hall/Room: 2
Greener Supply Chains
Moderator: John & Chorten
Hall/Room: 3
16:00 – 17:30
Green Tourism Standards
Moderator: Sonam & Rinzin
Hall/Room: 2
Green Branding & Marketing
Moderator: Guido & Phuntsho
Hall/Room: 3
Evening Program
Evening Program
19:00 onwards
Network Dinner
Hosted dinner with networking opportunities.
Field visits to permanent products in Paro
Field visits based on the selected themes for the three-days conference
Field visits based on the selected themes for the three-days conference
- Carbon calculation (Taktsang) – a hike up to Bhutan’s iconic Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) highlights the importance of integrating various carbon management topics to create genuine Low Carbon tourism products. Topics include human and horse powered activities, local supply chains and building materials, and waste management;
- Greening of supply chains from Hotels and Tour Operators to local suppliers (The Happiness Farm) – www.thehappinessfarm.com
- National standards for Green Hotels and Tour Operators and Greening of branding and marketing (Zhiwaling Heritage Hotel, Rinpung Dzong and Ta Dzong – Museum)
Group 1
Carbon calculation (Taktsang)
Group 1
Carbon calculation (Taktsang)
Taktsang Monastery—also known as the Tiger’s Nest or Paro Taktsang—is one of Bhutan’s most revered pilgrimage sites, located in the Paro district at an altitude of 2,950 meters above sea level. Reaching the monastery involves a 2 to 3-hour hike from the base at Ramthangkha, about 12 kilometers from Paro town, depending on fitness level.
A hike up to Bhutan’s iconic Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) highlights the importance of integrating various carbon management topics to create genuine Low Carbon tourism products. Topics include human and horse powered activities, local supply chains and building materials, and waste management.
Group 2
Greening of supply chains from Hotels and Tour Operators to local suppliers (The Happiness Farm)
Group 2
Greening of supply chains from Hotels and Tour Operators to local suppliers (The Happiness Farm)
Located on a picturesque plot of land in the heart of the countryside, The Happiness Farm offer a unique blend of rustic charm and contemporary comfort, In addition to the charming accommodations and stylish cottages, they offer a range of activities and amenities to make your stay as enjoyable as possible. These include guided farm tours, outdoor recreation, and access to our on-site farm-to-table restaurant, which sources its ingredients from our fields and gardens.
The Happiness Farm sources ingredients directly from its on-site organic gardens and terraced fields, ensuring a farm-to-table experience that drastically reduces transport emissions and supports a local supply chain
Group 3
National standards for Green Hotels and Tour Operators and Greening of branding and marketing (Drugyel Dzong, Zhiwaling Heritage Hotel, Rinpung Dzong and Ta Dzong - Museum)
Group 3
National standards for Green Hotels and Tour Operators and Greening of branding and marketing (Drugyel Dzong, Zhiwaling Heritage Hotel, Rinpung Dzong and Ta Dzong - Museum)
Bhutan’s Green Hotel Standards journey began in 2017, aiming to align hotel operations with global sustainability practices while honoring local values. Through the SUSTOUR project, over 100 hotels were trained to adopt eco-friendly measures. The Bhutan Green Hotel Standards were launched in 2024.
This Group will visit the following sites –
- Drugyel Dzong – Drukgyel Dzong, located in the upper Paro valley of Bhutan, is a historic fortress built in 1649 to commemorate a victory over Tibetan invaders. Though it was largely destroyed by fire in 1951, its ruins remain a symbol of Bhutanese resilience and architectural heritage. Restoration efforts began in recent years to preserve its cultural significance and promote heritage tourism.
- Zhiwaling Heritage Hotel – Zhiwa Ling Heritage Hotel in Paro exemplifies a Green Hotel through its deep-rooted commitment to Gross National Happiness (GNH) principles by implementing energy efficiency, water conservation, zero-waste practices (recycling 98% of on-site waste), and strong support for local communities through green purchasing and CSR initiatives.
Simultaneously, it preserves and celebrates rich cultural heritage with architecture handcrafted by local artisans—featuring intricately carved woodwork, traditional stonework, painted murals, and motifs – immersing guests in the history and spirituality of the region. - Rimpung Dzong – Rimpung Dzong showcases traditional Bhutanese architecture with massive stone walls, tiered roofs, and intricate woodwork. Its strategic hillside location and fortress-like design reflect both spiritual significance and defensive strength.
- Ta Dzong – Ta Dzong, once a mighty watchtower keeping an eye on invaders, now invites you to explore Bhutan’s rich heritage in its quirky round halls! Get ready to time-travel through culture, nature, and stories – all under one ancient roof
DAY 1: Conference – Pathways to regenerative tourism
Opening Ceremony
This ceremonial session will mark the formal opening of the summit, featuring traditional blessings, official addresses, and keynote remarks to establish the thematic context of regenerative tourism in Bhutan and beyond.
Time | Activity & Description |
|---|---|
08:30 – 09:00 | Reception of the Chief Guest Welcoming and seating of the Chief Guest and dignitaries. |
09:00 – 09:45 | Marchang Ceremony Traditional Bhutanese purification and offering ceremony to inaugurate the event. |
09:45 – 10:00 | Welcome Address by Organizer Opening remarks and event overview by the host organization (DOT). |
10:00 – 10:30 | Keynote Address by Chief Guest High-level address on the importance of sustainable tourism. |
10:30 – 11:00 | Keynote Address by Anna Pollock Framing regenerative tourism within global sustainable development. |
11:00 – 11:05 | Vote of Thanks Appreciation remarks acknowledging dignitaries and participants + brief program run-through.(Ms. Kezang, DoT) |
11:05 – 11:30 | Morning Tea Break Networking opportunity with light refreshments. |
Main Program – Plenary Session (Morning)
Theme: Global and National Perspectives on Regenerative Tourism
This session explores the broader conceptual, policy, and strategic frameworks of regenerative tourism through international and national lenses.
Time | Activity & Description |
|---|---|
Brief introduction and framing of the session by the organizer. (ABTO) | |
11:30 – 11:35 | Opening Remarks |
11:35 – 12:05 | Keynote Address: International Perspective Anna Pollock presents leading-edge global insights on regenerative tourism in relation to Bhutan and South Asia |
12:05 – 12:35 | Keynote Address: Bhutan’s Vision MoICE Minister OR MoICE Secretary outlines Bhutan’s policy directions and priorities. (TBC) |
12:35 – 13:00 | Interactive Q&A Open floor for discussion with keynote speakers. |
13:00 – 14:00 | Lunch Break Buffet lunch and informal networking. |
Main Program – Thematic Panels (Afternoon)
Each panel features insights from national and international experts, followed by audience engagement.
Panel 1: Carbon Calculation
Moderator & Lead Speaker: Mr. Robin Boustead
This session will explore carbon footprint measurement methodologies, and implementation strategies in tourism operations.
Time | Activity & Description |
|---|---|
14:00 – 14:05 | Opening Remarks and introduction by Moderator, Mr Robin Boustead |
14:05 – 14:10 | Introduction by National Panelist (e.g. DECC?) |
14:10 – 14:20 | Introduction by International Panelist 1 |
14:20 – 14:25 | Introduction by International Panelist 2 |
14:25 – 14:45 | Panel Discussion and Audience Q&A |
Panel 2: Green Tourism Standards
Moderator: (Sonam Dorji, Project Director SUSTOUR Bhutan/Sir Rinchen BIOFIN/Assessor)
This panel focuses on the development, adoption, and enforcement of sustainable tourism standards, including certification, compliance, and best practices.
15:30 – 16:00 | Afternoon Tea Break
Time | Activity & Description |
|---|---|
14:45 – 15:00 | Keynote remarks and introduction by Moderator |
15:00 – 15:05 | Introduction by National Speaker 1 (Chief Rinzin, DOT) |
15:05 – 15:10 | Introduction by National Speaker 2 (BSB) |
15:10 – 15:15 | Introduction by International Speaker |
15:15 – 15:30 | Panel Discussion and Audience Q&A |
Panel 3: Greener Supply Chains
Moderator: Chorten Dorji/John Hummel
This session delves into sustainable procurement, responsible sourcing, and circular economy principles in tourism supply chains.
Time | Activity & Description |
|---|---|
16:00 – 16:10 | Keynote remarks and introduction by Moderator |
16:10 – 16:15 | Introduction by National Speaker 1 (Dumra Farm Resort or Happiness Farm) |
16:15 – 16:20 | Introduction by National Speaker 2 (Green Textiles) |
16:20 – 16:25 | Introduction by International Speaker (EcoHimal) |
16:25 – 16:45 | Panel Discussion and Audience Q&A |
Panel 4: Green Branding and Marketing
Moderator: DOT (Phuntsho Gyeltshen, Chief MPD, DoT)
This panel explores how destinations can effectively position themselves through green branding, storytelling, and ethical marketing approaches.
Time | Activity & Description |
|---|---|
16:45 – 17:00 | Keynote Remarks by Moderator - Phuntsho |
17:00 – 17:05 | Introduction by International Speaker 1 (TAT) |
17:05 – 17:10 | Introduction by International Speaker 2 (NTB) |
17:10 – 17:15 | Introduction by International Speaker 3 (India) |
17:15 - 17:20 | Introduction by National Speaker (DOT Director) |
17:20 – 17:35 | Panel Discussion and Audience Q&A |
Wrap-Up & Reflections
Time | Activity & Description |
|---|---|
17:35 – 17:40 | Digital Evaluation of Day 1 Participants complete a mobile-based feedback form. |
17:40 – 17:45 | Session Summary & Introduction to Day 2 The moderator presents key takeaways and outlook. |
17:45 – 18:00 | Vote of Thanks Closing appreciation by the organizing team. |
Evening Program
Time | Activity & Description |
|---|---|
19:00 onwards | Gala Dinner Hosted dinner with cultural performances and networking opportunities. Signing ceremony with regional tourism associations with ABTO Awards for Bhutan’s greenest enterprises |
DAY 2. Four quarter day workshops/training courses on good practices (carbon calculations and national green standards)
Objectives
- Train and interact regarding the proposed themes of the three-days conference: Highlighting good practices (carbon calculations and national green standards), greening supply chains and empowering guests (green communication and branding)
- Compare theme results with initiatives in the region; Interactive sharing of theme results with participants of the region
Four parallel sessions:
- Carbon Calculation
- Green Tourism Standards
- Greener Supply Chains
- Green Branding and Marketing
Participants can participate in any of the above sessions on a rotation basis.
Time | Theme | Moderator | Hall/Room |
|---|---|---|---|
9:30 – 11:00 | Carbon Calculation | Robin | w |
9:30 – 11:00 | Standards | Sir/Chief Rinzin | x |
9:30 – 11:00 | Supply Chain | John | y |
9:30 – 11:00 | Branding |
| z |
11:15 – 11:30 | Tea Break | ||
11:30 – 13:00 | Carbon Calculation | Robin | w |
11:30 – 13:00 | Standards | Sir/Chief Rinzin | x |
11:30 – 13:00 | Supply Chain | John | y |
11:30 – 13:00 | Branding | z |
13:00 – 14:00: Lunch
Time | Theme | Moderator
| Hall/Room
|
|---|---|---|---|
14:00 – 15:30
| Carbon Calculation
| Robin
| w |
14:00 – 15:30
| Standards
| Sir/Chief Rinzin
| x
|
14:00 – 15:30
| Supply Chain
| John
| y
|
14:00 – 15:30
| Branding
|
| z
|
15:30 – 16:00 | Tea Break |
|
|
16:00 – 17:30 | Carbon Calculation | Robin | w |
16:00 – 17:30 | Standards | Sir/Chief Rinzin | x |
16:00 – 17:30 | Supply Chain | John | y |
16:00 – 17:30 | Branding | z |
Evening Program
Time | Activity & Description |
|---|---|
19:00 onwards | Network Dinner Hosted dinner with networking opportunities. Presentations by donors/sponsors? |
DAY 3. Field visits to permanent products in Paro
Field visits based on the selected themes for the three-day conference:
- Carbon calculation (Taktsang)
- National standards for Green Hotels and Tour Operators (Zhiwaling)
- Greening of supply chains from Hotels and Tour Operators to local suppliers (Happiness Farm – Chorten/John)
- Greening of branding and marketing (Ta Dzong – Museum – Phuntsho, DOT/Sonam)