Myanmar’s Clean Mountains Fights for Conservation Amidst Conflict

In Myanmar, the women-led organization Clean Mountains is working to bolster community-based conservation efforts in the Karenni and Karen states despite escalating conflict following the 2021 military coup. Founded in 2024, the group focuses on waste management, water conservation, and sustainable agriculture in areas controlled by resistance forces.

Founder Ou Ou explains that the coup has worsened environmental degradation and silenced conservationists, while also highlighting the importance of women's participation in environmental work. Clean Mountains establishes waste management systems in villages, currently over 130, emphasizing community ownership and gathering roughly 600 kilograms to 1 ton of waste per cycle.

The organization also supports natural resource regeneration and provides training in sustainable farming practices. Ou Ou notes that while immediate results are visible with waste management, securing land access complicates water conservation efforts.

She stresses the need for responsible natural resource management by all parties involved in the conflict, and for greater inclusion of women in decision-making roles. Clean Mountains plans to expand its focus on food security and environmental education.