Now, after its first nationwide survey, Bhutan knows there may be copper, tungsten, and other metals beneath that forest. Can a nation that built its name on conservation also become a mining country? According to the Department of Geology and Mines (DGM), currently, mining permits require binding environmental, forestry and cultural clearances. “Bhutan does not view mining technology through the lens of maximising volume, but through the lens of mindful mining.” Meanwhile, the Prime Minister, Tshering Tobgay, said that frameworks and policies are already in place to ensure Bhutan’s sustainable mining practices.