Locals lead response to climate change in Myanmar
Inle Lake, one of Myanmar’s most well-known attractions, is framed in part by the lush-looking surrounds of the Shan mountain range. But on closer inspection, what appears to be the green of forest is mainly hardy bush and grass, dotted with a few small trees.
Deforestation, particularly in the Inle Lake watershed area, as contributed to the lake’s receding water levels.
Deforestation can also leave waterways more vulnerable to runoff, Saw DohWah, an analyst with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Myanmar, told The Irrawaddy.
One reason locals cite for growing rates of deforestation is the careless cutting down of trees, for firewood or for use as building materials, without replanting.
