Myanmar Environmental Project

The Myanmar Environmental Project is a EC funded project (2009-2010) with the main objective to support biodiversity resources conservation in a sustainable development framework.

Myanmar has one of the richest biodiversity in Asia, with many endemic species and over 1.400 tree species, 7.000 plant species, l.000 bird species, 250 mammal species and 400 species of reptiles and amphibians. Although the economy of Myanmar, half covered by forests, relies largely on the rich forest and natural resources, the ongoing unsustainable forestry, mining, agricultural and fishing practices, is resulting in environmental degradation and direct biodiversity loss.

People whose livelihoods depend most on natural resources are affected by the effects of deforestation (floods, droughts and landslides) and more vulnerable to natural disasters, thus contributing to unavoidable poverty.

Deforestation, biodiversity loss and development issues can be effectively addressed through coordinated programmes at different levels, from data collection, awareness raising and grassroots engagement of communities in sustainable use of natural resources.

The project, through a capacity building process and exchange of information, experience and best practices, aims at contributing to ensure the sustainable management of forest resources and protected areas while conserving wildlife and wild plants and enhancing the ways of living of indigenous people, as stated in the Myanmar Forest Policy (1994).

     Myanmar Environmental Project Brochure.pdf

  click her