Conservation of Mangrove Ecosystem: Ceremony marking the International Day held in Nay Pyi Taw

A ceremony to mark the International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem was held at the Nay Pyi Taw Department of Forestry on Friday.

The event was attended by the Deputy Minister for Natural Resources and Environmental Conservation U Min Thu. Speaking on the occasion, the Deputy Minister stated that this celebration is held annually to raise awareness about the importance of mangroves and encourage greater involvement in conservation and restoration.

The Deputy Minister emphasized the importance of mangroves, noting that they provide a variety of environmental services and offer numerous employment opportunities. As mangroves face destruction due to population growth, he also highlighted the need to focus on maintaining a balance between resources utilization and conversation.

Mangroves grow in 123 countries with a tropical monsoon climate, accounting for only 0.4% of the world's forests. In Myanmar, four coastal regions and two states are home to over 1.1 million acres of mangroves, making it the seventh largest mangrove area in the world.

The government is implementing three management strategies, depending on the type and condition of the mangrove. To date, 44 reserved and protected forests, along with six Marine National Parks and Nature Conservation Areas have been established. By 2024, more than 20,000 acres of mangrove plantations have been established through the Myanmar Reforestation Initiative.