37th CE-TEP Wrap-Up and Debrief

Dear CE–TEP Members, Climate and Environmental Advocates,

The 37th CE–TEP Session, held on 21 March 2026, served as an Expert Insights Forum in commemoration of the International Day of Forests. Under the theme “Forests and Economy,” the session was organized by MERA members in collaboration with invited experts. Discussions explored the role of forests in supporting economies alongside broader societal benefits, including human health, mangrove ecosystems, fisheries, private sector engagement, sustainable energy, urban forests, carbon initiatives, community participation, and the contributions of youth, women, Indigenous Peoples, ecotourism, and community forestry.

Dr. Kyaw Tint, Chairman of MERA, opened the session with an address highlighting CE–TEP’s progress since June 2024, its role in advancing MERA’s Vision and Missions, and the history and themes of the International Day of Forests.

The event marked the global observance of the International Day of Forests, officially designated by the United Nations General Assembly in 2012 and celebrated annually on 21 March since 2013. Reflecting the 2026 theme, “Forests and Economy,” the session highlighted the critical role of forests in sustaining livelihoods, ecosystems, and economic development.

During the session, 10 speakers shared diverse perspectives, from which the following key points were drawn, reflecting the main messages and insights of their presentations:

• Forests as essential for human health and well-being – presented by U Tun Paw Oo, CEC Member of FREDA and Member of MFA
• The importance of mangroves and migratory birds for livelihoods and ecosystems – presented by U Than Htun, Chairman of MFA
• The role of private forestry in economic growth and sustainability – presented by U Myo Min, Advisor of MFPMA, CEC of FREDA
• Sustainable use of wood fuel and forest energy – presented by Dr. San Win, Chairman of FREDA
• Economic valuation of urban green spaces in Yangon – presented by U Sithu Lwin, Environmental Educator of Myanmar Environmental Education Team
• Community participation in carbon markets and sustainable forest management – presented by U Kyaw Moe Aung, Director of Pyjuliar Consulting Firm
• The role of youth and gender equality in forest conservation – presented by Daw Khin Moe Kyi, Deputy Director of RECOFTC-MCP
• Ecotourism as a pathway for sustainable forest-based income – presented by Dr. Chaw Chaw Sein, Freelance Consultant for Forestry and Environment
• Community forestry, non-timber forest products, and rural livelihoods – presented by U Aung Kyaw Naing, PhD Student at University of Helsinki, Finland and National Program Officer of RECOFTC-MCP
• Food resources provided by mangrove ecosystems – presented by U Win Sein Naing, Chairman of MSN

In closing, Dr. Kyaw Tint emphasized that forests are more than timber—they are vital for the economy, human health, climate resilience, and future sustainability. He called for increased awareness and stronger conservation efforts, highlighting that protecting forests is an investment in our future.

A total of 70 participants attended the session, contributing to rich discussions and knowledge exchange.

Please see the following link for the presentation:

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1nOxTrlnzZpcBlz3FY9tFLqRJmHiFI-qT/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=105967471612460074924&rtpof=true&sd=true

We sincerely thank all speakers and participants for their valuable contributions.

If you are not yet a member of CE–TEP, we encourage you to join by filling out the membership form through the link below:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScfvthK4e0qqrFylnv_0LvuA1Hm1VvVmAQkT_cuXojzz7b5Ug/viewform?usp=sharing

For further details regarding the program, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at the following:

✉Email: mern.myanmar@gmail.com

☎Phone/Viber:

• Admin Officer: 09456999119
• CEO: 09448016358
• CE–TEP Team: 09264542041

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