November 24, 2021 - The East and Southeast Asia Community Conservation Network (EASACCN) held its quarterly meeting via Zoom, led by Ms. Yunzhu Chen from the Global Environment Institute (GEI). The meeting, attended by member institutions, covered recent progress, organizational updates, funding opportunities, and preparations for the upcoming annual meeting.
Ms. Chen provided an overview of EASACCN's progress since the last meeting, highlighting the expansion of the network and advancements in pilot programs such as mangrove forest conservation, illegal wildlife trade initiatives, renewable energy projects, and online capacity-building workshops. New member institutions were introduced, and their representatives shared their goals and current projects.
New Members' Highlights:
Mr. Dingping MA from Chongqing Renewable Energy Society (CRES) discussed their focus on renewable energy and collaboration opportunities.
U Htun Paw Oo of Myanmar Forest Association (MFA) emphasized their work in forestry and mangrove conservation, aiming for more collaboration within the network.
U Zaw Win from Community Development Action (CDA) outlined their efforts in ecosystem conservation, community development, and food security.
Dr. Win Maung of Myanmar Environmental Institute (MEI) shared their projects in central Myanmar, focusing on biodiversity and ecosystem conservation.
Organizational Updates:
Mr. Giovanni Reyes presented a successful mapping project in the Philippines, identifying areas with significant carbon sequestration potential. He proposed scaling this model to other countries, including Thailand, Vietnam, Kenya, and Peru.
Dr. Peng Kui reflected on the importance of these achievements for international conservation efforts and encouraged network partners to make voluntary commitments.
Mr. Bambang and Mr. Fernando shared updates on their voluntary carbon projects and biodiversity offsetting initiatives, highlighting the benefits for local communities and potential for wider application.
Funding Opportunities:Ms. Chen introduced funding opportunities from the Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund and IUCN, providing detailed guidance on the application process and seeking member feedback on grant proposals.
Annual Meeting Preparations:Plans for the annual meeting in December were discussed, featuring an opening ceremony, keynote speeches, discussion sessions, and a summary of best practices in community conservation. Proposed topics include environmental policies and community conservation models.
The meeting underscored EASACCN's commitment to fostering collaboration, sharing knowledge, and advancing conservation efforts across East and Southeast Asia.