Bhutan attempts to create a Guinness World Records through ‘Maximum tree plantation’

100 Bhutanese will plant 50,000 trees in one hour on June 2, 2015

May 27, 2015: Bhutan is all about pristine natural beauty, an uncompromising traditional culture, an unwavering reverence for the monarchy and an environment that inspires spiritual as well as physical well-being. To maintain and heighten this the Bhutanese are attempting to create a Guinness world record through a maximum tree plantation.

Coinciding with the coronation of His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo and the Social Forestry Day, 100 Bhutanese will plant 50,000 trees in one hour on June 2, 2015. This mass tree plantation event is an attempt to beat the current world record of 40,885 trees planted by 100 heads in one hour. Participants will undergo vigorous 10-day training on tree plantation technique prior to the event for proper coordination, speed and technique to beat the current record. The name of the venue is Kuenselphodrang in Thimphu. This record breaking attempt, will be one of the many beautiful mementos to commemorate the 60th birth anniversary of His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck the beloved 4^th King.

Bhutan’s pristine environment currently has around 72% forest cover, that encompasses high rugged mountains and deep valleys, offering ecosystems that are both rich and diverse. Recognizing the importance of the environment, conservation of its rich biodiversity is one of the government’s key development paradigms. In fact the Constitution of Bhutan states that “The government shall ensure that, in order to conserve the country’s natural resources and to prevent degradation of the ecosystem, a minimum of sixty percent of Bhutan’s total land shall be maintained under forest cover for all time”.

Mr. Damcho Rinzim, Head, Marketing and Promotion Division, Tourism Council of Bhutan said, “Bhutan has unique geographical and climatic variations. It is one of the world’s last remaining biodiversity hotspots. The attempt to create a Guinness World Record through ‘Maximum tree plantation’ is an effort to maintain and foster the natural beauty. We hope to succeed and create a record for something that Bhutan is known for- its exquisite beauty” It is also a tribute to our Monarchs, especially our beloved fourth king for his vision to protect our natural environment.

In Bhutan taking this step of  creating the record, will further endorse its vision - “To foster a vibrant industry as a positive force in the conservation of environment, promotion of cultural heritage, safeguarding sovereign status of the Nation for significantly contributing to Gross National Happiness.”