UNESCAP

A Matter of Rights

Environment

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48. Managing the seaside -- Coastal areas have always been a source of livelihood and sustenance for communities throughout Asia. In recent decades, however, a large number of coastal areas have been damaged due to indiscriminate human activity. In Sri Lanka we see an example of how the implementation of integrated coastal management policies allow human populations to survive without damaging the coastal ecosystem. (Sri Lanka)

49. Desert warriors -- Nasser Nipkay is an expert in natural resources and a fighter. His opponent is the desert - a desert that goes wherever the wind blows it, driving people from their homes and villages. This report shows how “desert warriors” like Nasser, with the help of farmers, are fighting a grim battle against desertification of the Iran’s arable lands. (Iran)

50. Freshwater conservation -- The trade in endangered species is rapidly increasing throughout Asia due to the lack of proper law enforcement and local environmental knowledge. Nepal is one country facing the daunting task of catering to the international market for songbirds and protecting the countries natural bird life from over exploitation. For Kathmandu’s bird traders like Ali Ahammed, the government just needs to come up with a better reason for them to stop this age-old trade. (Nepal)

51. A solution for sinking cities -- A highly successful environmental education program sponsored by the Sydney Water Corporation in Australia, Streamwatch involves more than 30,000 people each year in helping to improve stream water quality. It encourages locals, community groups and schools to take ownership of the waterways within their areas, contributing to more effective and reliable monitoring, and improved water quality. The project has become a model worldwide for community involvement in solving environment-related problems. (Australia)

52. Trade in endangered species -- Since its inception in 1986, the Nepal Forum of Environmental Journalists has been sensitizing journalists, politicians, policy makers, and the general public about important environmental and development issues. The organization’s success is testimony to how free and responsible media institutions can use the right to information as a force for social and environmental change. (Nepal)