Yangon, August 21, 2024— UN-Habitat organized a hybrid “Roundtable Discussion on Climate Action Communication,” with over 45 in-person attendees and 20 virtual participants. This event, part of the Myanmar Climate Change Alliance Programme (MCCA), funded by the European Union, aimed to enhance climate change communication strategies and engagement efforts in Myanmar.

In her opening remarks, Dr. Catarina Camarinhas, Country Programme Manager a.i. of UN-Habitat Myanmar, stated, “Despite being one of the most vulnerable countries in the world to climate change, Myanmar’s communities are routinely excluded from climate adaptation efforts because of the conflict setting.”

She highlighted that “93 states and organizations adopted a Declaration on Climate, Relief, Recovery, and Peace at COP 28, committing to enhance climate action and finance in conflict settings.” Dr. Camarinhas emphasized that the Declaration recognizes “many of the people, communities, and countries threatened or affected by fragility or conflict, or facing severe humanitarian needs, are on the frontlines of the climate crisis and are among the least resourced to cope with and adapt to associated shocks and stressors.”

Following the opening remarks, UN-Habitat communication technical personnel delivered their presentations. They focused on creating a collective climate action campaign tailored to Myanmar’s specific needs and developing a strategic roadmap leading up to COP 29 to ensure local representation in global climate discussions. Participants also explored ways to share and access climate-related data through the M-CAN web portal, which will assist communities in making informed decisions. Additionally, the session introduced a climate action competition to highlight and promote best practices for nature-based solutions (NbS) in Myanmar.

During the discussion, UN-Habitat highlighted two significant Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) projects:

Mangrove Restoration: In the Ayeyarwaddy Delta Region, UN-Habitat implemented mangrove restoration in Labutta Township and is currently operating a mangrove nursery in Pyapon Township. These projects aim to restore coastal ecosystems and enhance biodiversity.

Community Rainwater Harvesting: This project aimed to improve water access in informal settlements by using locally available materials. It provides both environmental and socio-economic benefits, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions, subsidence risks, and minimizing maintenance costs.

Discussion Points

• Benefits of Mangrove Restoration: Participants shared insights on how mangrove restoration supports community livelihoods and contributes to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The discussion highlighted the need for integrating awareness activities and utilizing local resources.

• Localization and Communication: Participants emphasized the need for user-friendly and accessible information platforms. Participants discussed the importance of localized communication strategies and the role of community-based organizations (CBOs) in climate action.

• Climate Financing and Education: Simplifying communication for better community understanding and providing clear information on accessing climate finance were key topics. The discussion emphasized the importance of educating stakeholders and considering both nature-based and culture-based solutions.

• Role of Media: The media plays a crucial role in climate communication. Effective strategies should target specific audiences and use appropriate channels to deliver localized messages.

• Role of Youth: Youth play a significant role in climate communication. Engaging youth effectively requires tailored approaches and channels to ensure their messages reach the intended audiences.

• Market-Based Solutions: The discussion included suggestions for market-based solutions to enhance local communities and their livelihood opportunities.

Dr. Maung Maung Than, Country Director of RECOFTC-Myanmar, highlighted the important role of communication in promoting climate action. “Effective communication is key to encouraging communities to take action on climate issues,” he said. He stressed the valuable work of civil society organizations (CSOs), the media, and youth in engaging with communities and raising awareness about climate change. He also called for a comprehensive approach to climate communication, advocating for coordinated efforts across all sectors to effectively address climate challenges.

Effective communication is crucial for public education, stakeholder engagement, and the promotion of sustainable practices. In Myanmar, prioritizing localized climate communication strategies is essential to effectively address climate challenges. By fostering collaboration, utilizing nature-based and market-based solutions, and improving community engagement, we can build resilience and tackle climate issues more comprehensively.

To support these goals, UN-Habitat launched the Myanmar Climate Action Network (M-CAN) in 2023. The network now includes over 200 organizations and individual members, including UN, NGOs, CSOs, academic institutes, and several private sector partners. M-CAN aims to bring together diverse voices to present an integrated approach to tackling climate change, with a particular focus on protecting the most vulnerable communities.

Learn more and join M-CAN at: https://myanmar-can.com/