Commemorative Event: Myanmar marks International Day for Biological Diversity

The 2026 International Day for Biological Diversity was commemorated at the Forestry Department on Friday.

Union Minister for Natural Resources and Environmental Conservation U San Oo attended the event and made a speech. He highlighted this year’s theme, “Acting Locally for Global Impact”, emphasizing that protecting biodiversity must start at the local community level. Myanmar, a member to the Biodiversity Convention since 1995, has documented 864 native plant species, 9 mammal species, 10 bird species, and 21 reptile species.

The country has established 62 protected areas and designated two UNESCO Man and Biosphere Reserves, seven Ramsar wetlands, eight ASEAN heritage parks, and eight East Asia–Australia migratory bird routes. The Union Minister stressed that daily, practical conservation efforts at local and national levels are crucial.

Without reducing the causes of biodiversity loss, about 1 million species could vanish in the coming decades. Forests were highlighted as fundamental for biodiversity conservation and climate change mitigation. Expanding forest networks, protective belts, and reserves is essential.

Conservation efforts must be seen as a commitment for both the present and future, requiring participation from government, private sector, and local communities. The event also included a video presentation and poster exhibition on biodiversity conservation.