Climate change is one of the most pressing global challenges of our time, with the world becoming increasingly vulnerable to its devastating impacts. According to a recent United Nations report, the average global temperature is predicted to rise by a staggering 6˚ Celsius by the end of the century, exacerbating environmental degradation and ecosystem disruption.

Climate change has far-reaching consequences, including rising sea levels, intense natural disasters, and altered weather patterns. While some of these changes are attributed to natural causes like volcanic eruptions, floods, and forest fires, human activities play a significant role in accelerating climate change. Deforestation, burning fossil fuels, and farming livestock are among the primary human activities generating substantial greenhouse gas emissions.

Chinland is particularly susceptible to climate change, with deforestation being a major driver. The region’s vulnerability is largely due to forest fires and the long-standing practice of shifting cultivation, which involves clearing and burning new land each year. This
destructive cycle not only contributes to climate change but also threatens the livelihoods of local communities, who depend heavily on the region’s natural resources.

In Chin State, Traditional Cultivation is still practicing

Climate change is one of the most pressing global challenges of our time, with the world becoming increasingly vulnerable to its dIn 2020, Chin had 3.29 Mha of natural forest, extending over 89% of its land area. In 2023, it lost 39.8 kha of natural forest, equivalent to 22.0 Mt of CO₂ emissions.

Primary Forest loss in Chin, Myanmar

From 2002 to 2023, Chin lost 19.5 kha of humid primary forest, making up 4.5% of its total tree cover loss in the same time period. Total area of humid primary forest in Chin decreased by 4.4% in this time period.

To protect Chin State’s environment, it is essential to:

➢ Promote Sustainable Land-Use Practices: Encourage sustainable agriculture, forestry, and mining practices to reduce deforestation, land degradation, and pollution.
➢ Establish Protected Areas: Designate protected areas, such as national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, to conserve biodiversity and ecosystem services.
➢ Support Climate-Smart Agriculture: Promote climate-resilient agricultural practices, such as agroforestry and conservation agriculture, to enhance food security and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
➢ Engage Local Communities: Involve local communities in environmental decision making and promote environmental education and awareness.
➢ Foster International Cooperation: Collaborate with international organizations, NGOs, and governments to access technical and financial support for environmental conservation and climate change mitigation efforts.

By working together to address this global challenge, we can help protect the region’s unique ecosystem and ensure a more sustainable future for generations to come and preserve the Chin state’s unique cultural and natural heritage.