Reclaiming the Green: A Story of Local Communities in Myanmar's Shan State Taking a Stand Against Deforestation

Myanmar's Shan State had long been celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant communities. For generations, the local villagers thrived amidst dense forests, lush farmlands, and a strong sense of tradition. However, a looming threat now casts a shadow over this idyllic setting: deforestation driven by the resurgence of opium cultivation.

In recent years, a disheartening reversal has unfolded the positive trend of reduced opium cultivation in Shan State. Following a 95% decline in the opium production in Afghanistan, Myanmar has now claimed the unwelcome title of the world’s leading opium producing country, reaching a staggering 1,080 metric tons in 2023. This shift has had a profound impact on the region's ecosystem and the local Shan communities, with deforestation emerging as a grave consequence.

“Deforestation has had terrible impact on our villages and the communities, and we are facing this in our daily lives. Deforestation is depleting biodiversity of our forest which jeopardizes the unique plants and animals that make our forests so special. Our water resources become depleted, clean water becomes scarce, and our fertile ground suffers from soil erosion. To add onto this, there is also a risk of landslides and flooding during the monsoon season. This is the reality that we are facing daily,” says Khun Ta Be, leader of Htan Hpa Yar Community Forest in Hopong Area, Shan State. 

Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has stepped in to addresses the issue of deforestation related to opium poppy cultivation. Community forest user groups have been formed to unite villages in their commitment to protect their natural resources. These groups unite the villagers in their shared commitment to establish clear boundaries and ensure that forest areas remain untouched. Guided by UNODC, the community develops and implements a sustainable forest management plan.

"In 2020, as part of the forestry and climate change training, UNODC supported us with the efficient stove production technique. All households in the village have been using these techniques to make efficient stoves. We learned from the training that using these efficient stoves can not only decrease deforestation but also mitigate climate change. It is also beneficial to our health because it produce less smoke. Thanks to this initiative, we have witnessed a remarkable reduction in fuelwood consumption in our village," notes a local ethnic person.  

The positive effects of these initiatives extend beyond the protection of water sources and the conservation of natural forests. Agroforestry becomes a way of life as the villagers discover the benefits of growing crops and fruits such as coffee, tea, and avocados alongside their traditional practices. This not only provides a legitimate income but also acts as a shield against soil erosion in their agricultural lands. 

Local communities organizing forest activities, imparting techniques, and sharing knowledge related to climate change and sustainable development have been transformative. With determination, the village had become a beacon of hope, showcasing the power of collective action in restoring and preserving the balance between humanity and nature. The village had been given a lifeline, and the intangible heritage of their newfound practices were now cherished, ready to be handed down to future generations.

By the end of December 2023 (2017 to 2023), UNODC’s Alternative Development Programme restored 1,407 hectares with valuable species and 1191 hectares of area have been supported with agroforestry system. Every year, over 3000 seedlings are planted in school compounds together with students and teachers as part of UNODC’s broader environmental education initiative. 

The story of Myanmar's Shan State serves as a testament to the power and resilience of community action in the face of environmental challenges. It reminds us all of the importance of collective responsibility and the potential for positive change when communities unite for a common cause. Let the tale of Myanmar's Shan State inspire us to take action and protect the invaluable heritages we have, ensuring a brighter and more sustainable future for generations to come.