Responding to mangrove deforestation in Myanmar's Ayeyarwady Delta, this project focuses on community-led research to explore and implement ways to protect and govern mangroves better, leading to improved climate resilience and increased economic opportunities.
Mangrove destruction increases exposure to climate change impacts and threatens livelihoods
Some 70% of the mangrove forests of Myanmar's Ayeyarwady Delta have been destroyed in recent decades. Mangrove forests are vital ecosystems that protect coastal communities from climate-related extreme weather, such as cyclones and floods, which threaten food production and the security of agriculture and aquaculture-based livelihoods. The project area, Pyapon Township, includes some 6,000 hectares of mangrove forests that are managed by local people as certified Community Forests. Community forest users express a strong willingness to protect the mangroves and see opportunities to enhance their knowledge, skills, and strategies to do so more effectively. Communities also need economic and social incentives to implement potential solutions.
Building skills to protect mangroves, improve livelihoods and strengthen community governance
This project is using community-led research to generate knowledge and skills for equitable mangrove management and sustainable income generation. Community forest user groups are developing and implementing approaches that will enable them to better protect and govern their ecosystem and increase their economic opportunities.
The project is improving the socio-economic status of more than 3,000 community members by enabling more productive and sustainable livelihoods centred on mangrove-friendly aquaculture (for example, mud crab and prawn farming) and non-timber forest products.
By 2027, community members will be equipped to implement sustainable, climate-sensitive, scalable livelihood approaches that have demonstrated potential to enhance incomes and maintain thriving ecosystems.
At the same time, community members are establishing an inclusive governance system that support action to restore and protect the mangrove ecosystem and enhance economic opportunities. This improved governance system will address the needs of all vulnerable members of the community.
Securing the mangrove forests will protect their biodiversity and wildlife, including endangered species such as fishing cats, otters and saltwater crocodiles.
Connect
Pyi Soe Aung, conservation director (pyisoe.aung@wwf.org.mm)