CLIMATE change is manifesting itself in tangible and sometimes destructive incidents around the world. Rising temperatures, irregular monsoons, reduced monsoon rains are becoming more evident year after year. In addition, weather events are becoming more severe.
The weather and climate do not have boundaries like we demarcate around our countries. The harsh weather effects and natural disasters we experience are also felt by our neighbours. What’s more, international media tells us that this is a global phenomenon.
Nations are preparing for climate change with the deep consideration it warrants. Some island nations and settlements closer to the ocean have to find suitable areas to relocate to as global warming raises the surface of the sea to levels that threaten to engulf the low-lying coastal areas.
This means that the map of the world may have to be edited in the near future. There is also the issue of mass migrations to other countries, dwindling food supplies, insufficient energy and possible epidemics occurring around the world.
Climate change can bring a particularly nasty consequence to agricultural nations such as Myanmar. To make the necessary preparations, the Central Committee on National-Level Environmental Conservation and Climate Change was formed three years ago, together with six working committees and state/regional management committees, including Nay Pyi Taw Council, under its supervision.
Moreover, Myanmar’s rich and varied natural resources are beleaguered from internal reforms, economic liberalisation and global trends, including climate change. The key drivers of change include developments in the energy, industry and urban sectors, land use and deforestation. Rural households also rely heavily on forest resources. If Myanmar does not manage its natural resources properly, it could lead to resource inadequacy and aggravate inequality in the nation.
The Union Government has taken action by enacting the Myanmar National Environmental Affairs Policy, Myanmar Climate Change Policy, Myanmar Climate Change Master Plan (2018-2030) and the Myanmar Climate Change Action Plan (2018-2030).
The Union Government’s plans and policies all aim to make Myanmar resilient to the changing weather and maintain sustainable development by 2030. The master plan dedicates tasks to food security by making the agriculture, livestock and fishery sectors sustainable. It also aims to implement adequate water supplies and restore forests and natural resources for the emergence of a good working ecosystem.
Through these objectives, Myanmar will grow into a society prepared for natural disasters that will result from climate change and build a strong education foundation on preserving the natural environment. It has been thirty years since Myanmar’s annual rainy days were reduced from 145 to 105 days. This has caused 25 to 30 per cent less water to enter our reservoirs and contributes to water scarcity. It is with sincere hope that we wish for the people of Myanmar to gradually recover from recent environmental incidents and rebuild themselves into a more resilient community.
