Engaging the Private Sector in Forest Conservation and Fire Management

On February 12th the USAID-funded Lowering Emissions in Asia’s Forests program met with members of the Chiang Mai Chamber of Commerce, the Chiang Mai Tourism Business Association, the Ban Maw Maae Community, and the Tambon Administrative Organization of the Don Kaew Sub District near Chiang Mai, Thailand to establish a joint working group on forest conservation and fire management awareness.  

Focusing on awareness raising activities within the nearby Mae Sa-Kog Ma UNESCO Man and the Biosphere Reserve, and the working group will serve as a forum with other stakeholders to collaborate on environmental issues through public-private partnership efforts.  The Mae Sa-Kog Ma Reserve provides valuable natural resources to surrounding communities and business operators.

However, the Reserve’s resources are increasingly exploited, showing signs of degradation, including sedimentation and water shortages.  The working group will help build awareness and appreciation for a healthy local ecosystem.

Source: USAID/RDMA Regional Environment Office Weekly Update