GGGI organized a two-day validation workshop on “3Returns Model and Framework – an Investment Case for Coastal Landscape Mangrove Restoration in Myanmar” on February 20-21, 2020 at Park Royal Hotel in Nay Pyi Taw. The objective of the workshop was to present and validate the concept of the 3Returns Model and Framework which is a tool for decision making towards sustainable landscapes. In a partnership with the University of Queensland (UQ), GGGI conducted an economic appraisal of Ayeyarwady mangrove forests to assess the costs and benefits of mangrove restoration, including the value of economic, social and natural stocks, through the lens of the 3Returns approach. The validation workshop is also to share the results tested in one pilot region, the Ayeyarwady Delta which has the largest mangrove forest area in Myanmar.
Specifically, the main objectives were to:
- Present and validate the 3Returns Model and Framework, a tool for decision making towards sustainable landscapes.
- Present and validate the analysis on the Economic Appraisal of Ayeyarwady Mangrove Forests following the 3Returns Framework.
- Present and validate the analysis of bio-based value chains for sustainable mangrove restoration.
- Present social safeguards and benefit sharing mechanisms for value chains investments in community-based mangrove restoration and concessions projects.
The validation workshop also achieved the following additional functions:
- Collected feedback and recommendations arising from the presentations, including comments on the strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities of the 3Returns Landscapes Financial Planning Tool, focusing on the effectiveness of the Tool.
- Served as a platform to discuss the application of information derived from the analysis to help Government of Myanmar and stakeholders to tap into climate funds, international and local funds dedicated for restoration or development, carbon markets and impact investors. The discussion also includes the extension of the functionality of the model and framework with key stakeholders and other partners.
The workshop was opened by the Director General of Environmental Conservation Department. A total of 45 representatives from government representatives from the Ayeyarwady Region, Forest Department, Department of Fisheries, Department of Agriculture, Department of Agricultural Research, Environmental Conservation Department, Myanmar Investment Commission, and Directorate of Investment and Company Administration as well as from International Development Organizations.
Mr. Hla Maung Thein, Director General of Environmental Conservation Department delivering opening speech
Validation Workshop on “3Returns Model and Framework – an Investment Case for Coastal Landscape Mangrove Restoration in Myanmar”_ Group Photo
Dr. Aaron Russell, GGGI Country Representative delivering welcome remark
Group work session
Participant presenting group work