ANALYSIS OF COLLABORATION AND COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION

MODELS IN THE CONTEXT OF BIODIVERSITY MANAGEMENT IN THE

GULF OF MOTTAMA, SOUTHERN MYANMAR

By:
BAWI THA LIAN THANG
E3501232801

PRACTICAL ASSIGNMENT
BIODIVERSITY MANAGEMENT COURSE

TROPICAL BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION STUDY PROGRAM

GRADUATE SCHOOL
BOGOR AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY
2024
 FOREWORD

I express gratitude to the almighty God for His continuous blessings in my life.
Completing this paper wouldn't be possible without His grace. I would like to extend
my special thanks to Prof. Dr. Ir. Jarwadi Budi Hernowo, M.Sc.F.Trop whose guidance
was crucial for the Management Biodiversity course.

This paper analyzes the collaboration and community participation models in the
context of biodiversity management in the Gulf of Mottama, Southern Myanmar.
Despite potential shortcomings, I welcome constructive feedback to improve this short
paper. I believe it will benefit those interested in biodiversity management and
contribute to scientific knowledge in the field.

Bogor, June 2024

Bawi Tha Lian Thang

 INTRODUCTION

Background

The Gulf of Mottama, also known as the Martaban, is located in Yangon Region,
Bago Region and Mon State in Myanmar, at the mouth of the Sittaung River. It has a
wide funnel shape at its southern end spanning about 100 km and covers a total area of
approximately 2,500 km². Known for its prominent tidal cycle with a range of 6-7
meters and pronounced amplitude causing an unusual bore phenomenon unique to this
region. This makes it one of the most dynamic estuaries globally characterized by
constant sediment redistribution, channel shifts, erosion, and accretion on a significant
scale (Aung et al. 2020).

The spoon-billed sandpiper, Calidris pygmaea, listed as Critically Endangered

due to its plummeting population numbers, undertakes a migratory journey from the
Arctic breeding grounds to winter in locations across Asia, with the most substantial
wintering population found in the Gulf of Mottama, Myanmar. Despite being legally
protected, lax enforcement has led to continued hunting and habitat loss along its
migratory route. Recent conservation efforts in Myanmar, such as hunting bans and
alternative livelihoods for hunters, aim to reduce bird mortality, though challenges
persist elsewhere in the bird's range, especially habitat conversion in the Yellow Sea
region (Aung et al. 2020)

The decline of the Spoon-billed Sandpiper is attributed to several factors,

including hunting, accidental entanglement in fishing nets, loss and degradation of
stopover sites, and likely impacts of climate change. Additionally, the loss of
overwintering intertidal habitats poses a significant threat to the survival of this species
(Aung et al. 2020).

BANCA Birdlife Myanmar, an integral part of the global BirdLife International

Partnership, has been at the forefront of non-governmental organizations dedicated to
bird conservation and sustainable development in Myanmar since its establishment in
2004. As a vital member of the BirdLife International, spanning over 120 organizations
across more than 120 countries, BANCA Birdlife Myanmar collaborates on a global
scale to protect bird species, their habitats, and global biodiversity. With a primary focus
on the conservation of birds and their ecosystems, the organization plays a pivotal role
in maintaining environmental health and biodiversity, including Spoon-billed Sandpiper
(BANCA).

Alongside BANCA, there is collaboration and participation from the

communities around the Gulf of Mottama in conserving and managing Spoon-billed
Sandpiper populations. As stakeholders in specific projects and initiatives under this
program, these communities play significant roles in shaping biodiversity management.
They contribute not only their traditional wisdom but also knowledge gained from local
engagement and empowerment programs led by BANCA (Aung 2024).

Objective
The objective of this paper is:
1. To analyze the model of collaboration and community participation in the
context of biodiversity management in the Gulf of Mottama, Southern Myanmar
2. To analyze the performance of the collaboration and community participation in
the context of biodiversity management in the Gulf of Mottama, Southern
Myanmar
3. To identify the economic, social, and cultural benefits of collaboration and
community participation in the context of biodiversity management in the Gulf
of Mottama, Southern Myanmar
 METHODS

In the preparation of this paper, the required data is obtained through a

comprehensive literature review and in-depth interviews. This method of data collection
by literature review is a well-established and widely accepted approach in academic
research, particularly in fields where existing knowledge and research findings are
crucial to the development of new insights and theories. The literature review process
involved several stages of data collection, including reading, taking notes, and analyzing
the information. An effective and well-conducted review as a research method creates
a firm foundation for advancing knowledge and facilitating theory development
(Webster & Watson, 2002; Snyder 2019). Collecting data through the interview can help
a more in-depth understanding of the topic and direct information.
 RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS

The Purpose of Collaboration and Participation

The purpose of these collaborative efforts is to collectively contribute to the
conservation of the critically endangered Spoon-billed Sandpiper and other migratory
shorebird species by monitoring the status of globally important sites in Myanmar, such
as the Gulf of Mottama and Nanthar Island. Additionally, the efforts aim to address local
livelihoods by providing alternative livelihood options, strengthening law enforcement
and patrolling to protect the species, and effectively coordinating national action plans
for conservation (Aung et al. 2016; BANCA 2020)

Forms of Collaboration and Participation

The collaboration and community participation in the conservation efforts for

the Spoon-billed Sandpiper involves various stakeholders such as NGOs, local
government, regional government, local village heads and villagers, local religious
leaders, and private sector partners. The form of this collaboration includes awareness
raising in local communities, environmental education, forming and building the
capacity of local conservation groups, engaging with local stakeholders through
consultations, and improving communication between local government and external
organizations (BANCA 2020).

Local Conservation Groups carry out patrolling during the winter season in
collaboration with BANCA to monitor and prevent shorebird hunting in the Gulf of
Mottama. Furthermore, training for the local community in shorebird watching, which
was conducted by BANCA to increase local engagement and awareness, as well as to
develop local expertise in conservation efforts. These activities demonstrate how
community involvement is integrated into the conservation strategy for the Spoon-billed
Sandpiper and shorebird habitats in the region (Aung et al. 2017).

Organization
Biodiversity and Nature Conservation Association (BANCA) Birdlife Myanmar
is a local environmental NGO, operating as a non-profit organization without
affiliations to political or religious entities. It stands among a handful of environmental
NGOs in Myanmar, and recognized as the second-largest local NGO in Myanmar in the
National Biodiversity Strategic Action Plan (NBSAP, 2011). Despite its official recognition
by the Ministry of Home Affairs, Union of Myanmar, on June 18, 2004, BANCA has
been actively involved in its mission since 2002. The organization is identified by the
registered charity number 1Local/1401 (BANCA 2024)
To realize its conservation goals, BANCA Birdlife Myanmar engages in various
projects that bridge the gap between nature and communities. Community-based
Conservation Projects involve partnerships with local communities to develop
initiatives relative to their engagement and involvement, especially at IBAs and Key
Biodiversity Areas (KBAs). The Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas (IBAs) Program
identifies, monitors, and protects sites crucial for bird species and biodiversity, ensuring
the sustained survival of diverse ecosystems. Environmental education and awareness
programs by BANCA further amplify the organization's impact by enlightening
individuals about the interconnectedness of humans and the environment, fostering
support for sustainable practices. Additionally, BANCA Birdlife Myanmar conducts
research and monitoring activities, gathering essential data on bird populations and
habitats to shape effective conservation strategies and advocate for policy decisions
prioritizing avian and ecosystem protection. Through these multifaceted efforts,
BANCA Birdlife Myanmar continues to make significant contributions to bird
conservation and environmental sustainability in Myanmar (BANCA 2024).

Legal Basis, Regulations

To strengthen law enforcement and protect the Spoon-billed Sandpiper and its
habitat in Myanmar, several key measures are required to be integrated. Enhanced
patrolling efforts are being undertaken, particularly during the winter season, to prevent
the hunting of shorebirds. This is important as hunting has been identified as a key threat
to the Spoon-billed Sandpiper's survival. Moreover, legal protections are being sought
for critical habitat areas. Only Meinmahla Island is currently a recognized Ramsar site,
but efforts are underway to confer similar protection status to parts of the Gulf of
Mottama. Additionally, there is a focus on addressing illegal activities, such as sand
extraction on Nan Thar Island and the implementation of illegal fishing methods that
can inadvertently result in the by-catch of shorebirds. These measures are part of a
comprehensive approach to conservation, which includes the development and
implementation of a national action plan. This action plan aims to manage and ensure
the environmental sensitivity of key habitats, contributing to the broader goal of
preserving the Spoon-billed Sandpiper population and supporting Myanmar's
international conservation commitments (Aung et al. 2016; BANCA 2020).
In 2012, the Hluttaw passed the Environmental Conservation Law (ECL) that
outlines the country's commitment to environmental conservation and protection. It
provides the legal framework for addressing various environmental issues and
promoting sustainable development. According to the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw Law No. 9/
2012, the relevant government departments and government organizations shall, in
accordance with the guidance of the Union Government and the Committee, carry out
the conservation, management, beneficial use, sustainable use, and enhancement of
regional cooperation of the following environmental natural resources, including natural
areas, wildlife, natural plants and biological diversity, including Spoon-billed Sandpiper
in the Gulf of Mottama (Aung 2024).

Policy

Previously operating under a centralized model, BANCA encountered internal

conflicts prompting a shift in policy. Now, responsibilities and decision-making
processes are delineated within the organization. While job descriptions outline specific
roles and duties, significant decisions regarding partnerships with other entities are
made by the Senior Management Team (SMT). In instances of disagreement within the
SMT, voting occurs, facilitated by its odd-numbered composition, which includes the
executive director, finance manager, program managers, and admin manager. BANCA
adheres to a comprehensive set of policies covering finance, procurement,
administration, and human resources, alongside a strategic action plan revised
triennially. This strategic blueprint must align with the directives of the National
Biodiversity Strategic Action Plan (NBSAP), the objectives outlined in the Convention
on Biological Diversity (CBD), and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) (Aung
2024; BANCA 2024).

Previously in Myanmar, both international and local NGOs were required to

extend their registration one year before its expiration. However, the new process has
evolved. Local NGOs now must undergo new registration procedures, while
international NGOs are mandated to sign Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs)
with relevant ministries. Notably, local NGOs necessitate a recommendation letter from
a pertinent ministry to complete their registration process (Aung 2024).

According to Environmental Conservation Regulations (ECR), the

department/organization shall coordinate with relevant Government departments and
Government organizations not to deplete the habitats of natural plants and living things
when implementing facts contained in sub-section (a). Hence, BANCA is collaborating
closely with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Conservation
(MONREC) to promote biodiversity conservation across the nation (BANCA 2024).

Funding

Since most of the projects and initiatives concerning Spoon-billed Sandpipers

are not only in the Gulf of Mottama but also in certain places, BANCA Birdlife
Myanmar secures funding for its conservation initiatives and projects from a variety of
organizations to suit the specific requirements of the endeavor. Since its establishment
in 2004, BANCA has cultivated strong partnerships with numerous international
entities, including BirdLife International Indo-China Program, BirdLife International
Asia Program (BLI), Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, UK (RSPB), Instuito
Oikos (Italy), Flora and Fauna International (FFI), Arcona Consulting, BBC Wildlife
Funds, Darwin Initiative, Wildfowl and Wetland Trust (WWT), World Wildlife Fund
(WWF), United Nations Development Program (UNDP), Wildlife Conservation
Society (WCS), Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), World Animal
Protection, California Davis University, International Conservation Fund of Canada
(ICFC), Ramsar Center Japan (RCJ), Norway Environmental Agency, Ministry of
Environment Japan, International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), and
Oriental Bird Club (OBC) (BANCA 2018).

Additionally, BANCA collaborates with governmental bodies, including the

Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Conservation (MONREC), the
Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Irrigation (MOALI) in Myanmar, and the
Ministry of Education. Since BANCA has many partnerships with various organizations
and institutions, the amount of funding is not different and the details are reported only
in the agreement letter between the two partnerships of each project (BANCA 2019).

While BANCA receives funding from Birdlife International according to the

projects, it also gets some funding from IUCN, which is Critically Ecosystem
Partnership Fund (CEPF), especially focusing on key biodiversity areas (KBAs).

Performance
Even though there have been some initiatives for the conservation of Spoon-
billed Sandpiper in certain parts of Myanmar, BANCA's projects have been ongoing
since 2014. BANCA’s efforts to conserve the Spoon-billed Sandpiper have been
acknowledged by the Ministry of Natural Resource and Environmental Conservation in
their Fifth National Report to the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity
(BANCA 2019). The organization has a history of 22 years working on various projects
and collaborating with different organizations. However, a specific focus on conserving
the Spoon-billed Sandpiper has spanned over a decade.
In addition to this, this organization has achieved numerous notable successes
over the years. In 2003, they published "Birds of Myanmar" in the Myanmar language,
serving as a crucial resource for ornithologists and birdwatchers. Two years later, they
received the 'Outstanding Award for Biodiversity Conservation' from the Ministry of
Environmental Conservation and Forestry, Myanmar. In 2008, their rediscovery of the
critically endangered Gurney’s Pitta in the Tanintharyi Region led to its status being
down-listed as endangered. In 2009, BANCA was named 'Species Guardian of Spoon-
billed Sandpiper' by BirdLife International and conducted significant biodiversity
impact assessments for major hydropower projects. The discovery of the Snub-nosed
Monkey in Emawbum in 2010 was another landmark achievement, accomplished in
collaboration with FFI and PRCF. By 2011, BANCA was recognized as the second-
largest local NGO in Myanmar according to the National Biodiversity Strategic Action
Plan (NBSAP). In 2014, they published "Shore Birds in Gulf of Mottama," and their
Spoon-billed Sandpiper conservation efforts were acknowledged by the Ministry of
Natural Resource and Environmental Conservation (MONREC). That same year,
BirdLife International recognized two new Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas,
MM056 Gulf of Mottama and MM057 Nanthar Island, which were later acknowledged
by MONREC. The rediscovery of Baer’s Pochard in 2016, the establishment of the
Environmental Educational and Sustainability Center at Thein Ngu village, and
achieving a full BirdLife partnership in 2017 further exemplify their continued impact.
Additionally, in 2017, the northern part of the Gulf of Mottama in Mon State was
designated as Myanmar's 4th Ramsar site (BANCA 2019).

Sharing on the Sustainability of Biodiversity

Starting from 2014 until 2019, BANCA conducted a monitoring program for
critically endangered spoon-billed sandpipers on its globally most important wintering
grounds in Myanmar, mostly focused on the Gulf of Mottama. This program acts as a
catalyst for sharing the sustainability of biodiversity by integrating conservation efforts
with the active participation of local communities, capacity building, and environmental
education. By monitoring the Spoon-billed Sandpiper at important wintering grounds in
Myanmar and addressing threats at these critical sites, the program contributes to the
species’ survival, which is a direct action towards maintaining biodiversity (BANCA
2019).
By focusing on the sustainable use of habitats and providing alternative
livelihoods to communities, the program helps to balance ecological needs with human
needs, a cornerstone of sustainable biodiversity. It fosters stakeholder collaboration,
which is essential for long-term conservation success, supporting the health of
ecosystems which in turn supports a rich variety of life. Moreover, as the program aligns
with international conventions such as the Ramsar Convention and the East Asian-
Australasian Flyway Partnership, it serves as a model for international cooperation in
biodiversity conservation (Aung et al. 2016; BANCA 2020). Overall, these efforts
contribute to global biodiversity sustainability by ensuring the Spoon-billed Sandpiper,
a species of international conservation concern, remains part of our shared natural
heritage.
Advantages of Collaboration and Participation
Generally, community participation and collaboration in biodiversity
management offer a multitude of benefits across economic, social, and cultural
dimensions. Engaging local communities in conservation activities can lead to improved
livelihoods, as seen in protected areas where communities contribute to conservation
efforts (Levin 2022). Furthermore, community involvement in river basin management
can enhance biodiversity conservation, land productivity, and ecosystem restoration
while also increasing the standard of living for residents (Gena dan Jemal 2022).
Successful collaboration in conservation projects involves various stakeholders,
including local communities, NGOs, governments, and international organizations,
leading to positive conservation outcomes and wider sustainability impacts (Cheng et
al. 2016). Additionally, community-led action for the development of biodiversity
islands can stem from ethical, philosophical, scientific, cultural, or economic
motivations, showcasing diverse approaches to conservation that incorporate social and
environmental justice considerations. Efforts to involve communities in the
management of conservation units can promote environmental education, empower
citizens, and enhance the preservation of plant biodiversity, ultimately fostering a more
sustainable relationship between society and the environment (White et al. 2023).
In terms of economy, community participation and collaboration in biodiversity
management can lead to significant benefits. Economic development and biodiversity
conservation go hand-in-hand when communities engage in sustainable livelihoods such
as ecotourism, which leverages the intrinsic value of biodiversity for income generation
without depleting resources. This helps reduce poverty and boost the economy by
creating jobs and fostering market linkages that can lead to investments in conservation
efforts. Furthermore, these sustainable practices can ensure the long-term viability of
local resources, providing a steady source of income for future generations and
potentially leading to financial support from external entities impressed with the
community's commitment to biodiversity management (Pacheco et al. 2012).
On the social front, involving local communities in biodiversity management
fosters social cohesion as individuals work together towards a common goal. It also
promotes collective ownership of natural resources, which can strengthen conflict
resolution over resource use and encourage community-led initiatives to protect local
ecosystems. Education and training programs associated with biodiversity management
can improve social welfare by building social capital, enhancing local capacity for
governance and advocacy, and empowering individuals to take an active role in the
stewardship of their environment (Pretty dan Smith 2004).
Culturally, community collaboration in biodiversity management helps preserve
traditional knowledge and practices associated with natural habitats and the species
within them. By respecting and integrating indigenous ecological knowledge into
management strategies, conservation efforts honor cultural heritage and values. This
integration not only enriches the biodiversity management process but also instills
cultural pride, ensuring that cultural practices continue to support, rather than impede,
conservation goals. Education programs play a vital role in raising awareness about the
importance of biodiversity, promoting cultural practices that dovetail with the
management of ecosystems, and supporting the transmission of cultural knowledge to
younger generations. Through these cultural connections, biodiversity management
becomes not just an environmental strategy but a celebration of the community's living
heritage (Gavin et al. 2015).
 CONCLUSION
To summarize, the collaboration and community participation models in the
Gulf of Mottama demonstrate a holistic approach to biodiversity management that
balances ecological needs with human development. These activities have a substantial
impact on biodiversity sustainability and highlight the transformative power of inclusive
conservation strategies. The continuous success of these programs is dependent on
continual support, adaptive management, and the growth of relationships at all levels of
the society.
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