The Jigme Singye Wangchuck Outstanding Environmental Stewardship Award recognizes, celebrates and honours individuals and institutions from across the globe and Bhutan for outstanding contributions to environmental conservation.
The Award is conferred by Her Royal Highness Ashi Chimi Yangzom Wangchuck, Royal Patron of the Bhutan Ecological Society. The award is conferred as homage to His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck, the Fourth King of Bhutan’s selfless service and farsighted leadership.
His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck is a champion for nature and her protection. His Majesty’s legacy includes landmark policies such as the dictum to protect 60% of Bhutan’s land under forest cover for all times to come. It was also during his Majesty’s reign that 50% of Bhutan’s land was declared as Protected Areas. Recognizing His Majesty’s dedication to environmental conservation, His Majesty was inducted into the Kyoto Earth Hall of Fame on 13th February 2011. His Majesty was also honoured with the 2022 Blue Planet Prize.