Hybrid environmental governance in Very Small Power Producers : A comparative study of three micro-hydropower projects in Thailand

Title: Hybrid environmental governance in Very Small Power Producers : A comparative study of three micro-hydropower projects in Thailand

Author: Thita Orn-in

Year: 2014

Keywords: HYBRID GOVERNANCE / ENVIRONMENTAL GOVERNANCE / COMMUNITY, VSPP / THAILAND VSPP / COMMUNITY ENERGY / ENERGY DECENTRALIZATION /, COMMUNITY ELECTRICITY

Theme: Environmental Politics and Policy

Advisor(s): Carl Middleton

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: Thailand needs to create the supply to meet an increasing demand of electricity consumption. Renewable sources produced by Very Small Power Producers (VSPP) are a promising scheme that not only would strengthen energy security, but also inform solutions for the problem of sustainability in environmental governance. In the future, community VSPPs will be an important contributing factor for Thailand’s 25% renewable energy (RE) production to be met, but to date this issue has received inadequate attention. A comparative study at the Mae Kam Pong, Mae Jo (Chiang Mai) and Ban Sam Ka (Lampang) Micro Hydro power projects was conducted in order to illustrate multi-partner governance (Hybrid Environmental Governance as referred to in the thesis). These communities’ VSPPs mark a new paradigm of decentralized energy production and environmental governance. This study explored successes and challenges, as well as the opportunity for the project to be replicated to assess the feasibility of a national-scale community VSPP program in the future. To conduct this research, in-depth interviews with key informants from the community, their partners from firms and civil societies as well as other governmental authorities were carried out. This paper argues that the formation of hybrid environmental governance contributed to the success of establishment of community VSPP projects. Moreover, by empowering the community, it introduced the emphasis on the human security aspect within the energy security concept, e.g., local income distribution through self-initiated VSPP projects. The formation of the projects points out dynamics of power relation between the community, private sector, civil society and state actor. Although communities become more empowered by partnering with firms and civil society, the state is still a dominating actor that determines the ability of community actors to participate in VSPPs business. Community VSPP projects faced challenges such as lack of policy support, rigid legal process and lack of transparency during the approval process. The hybrid governance that occurred in the projects is so unique that it is difficult to replicate on a mass scale unless government regulations are amended so that they supports the adoption of the model. And, although the financial sustainability of the project is uncertain, the project highlighted a platform of environmental governance development within the community

Social movement on Myitsone Hydropower Dam Project in Kachin State, Burma/Myanmar

Title: Social movement on Myitsone Hydropower Dam Project in Kachin State, Burma/Myanmar

Author: Hkawn Ja Aung

Year: 2014

Keywords: SOCIAL MOVEMENT / MYITSONE HYDROPOWER DAM PROJECT / BURMA/MYANMAR

Theme: Environmental Politics and Policy

Advisor(s): Carl Middleton

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: In 2006, the Myitsone Dam was proposed to be built at the confluence of Mali Hka and Nmai Hka Rivers in Kachin State by the Burmese government and a Chinese company. Whilst 90% of electricity would go to China, millions of people who depend on the Ayeyarwady River in Burma would be affected due to environmental and social impacts. The initial construction, which started in 2009, produced immediate impacts such as forced resettlement, loss of livelihoods, properties, and lands, loss of fish species, and deforestation. Hence, local affected people opposed the project and a social movement grew that eventually included media, non-state actors and political parties. On 30th September 2011, President Thein Sein officially suspended the construction of Myitsone Dam in his presidential term until 2015. The purpose of this thesis is to study the emergence of this social movement at the Myitsone Hydropower Dam project. Applying the hybrid conceptual framework of Resource Mobilization and political opportunity, the thesis focuses on the organizing skills of local communities, and how they gained support from the outside and the political opportunities that arose. This research uses qualitative methodologies in data collection &ndash ; reports and document analysis, focus group discussion and in-depth interviews with key respondents in field work. Data information is gathered from local communities including two relocated villages, civil societies, politicians and activists mainly in Kachin State and Yangon. The study also explores how the decision for suspension of this project has had further implications for other large scale project governance in Burma, particularly hydropower projects. The main research finding is that the local communities were trying to reach out the effects of this project to many regions while they were struggling for their survivals due to forced relocation and loss of livelihoods. The involvement of various factors such as funding, coordinating, media coverage and legal supports have supported this movement into public affairs. It also finds that that the Myitsone project vividly differentiated the different political roles of local ethnic armed groups in Kachin State. The thesis concludes that the suspension of Myitsone project has been one of the evidences of democratic transition for the President and the new government, and that the Myitsone social movement stood as a symbol for other social movements since political transition.

Promoting organic farming for farmers' empowerment: The role of government in South Korea and Thailand

Title: Promoting organic farming for farmers' empowerment: The role of government in South Korea and Thailand

Author: Yong Sun Hong

Year: 2014

Keywords: ORGANIC FARMING / EMPOWERMENT / GOVERNMENT ASSISTANCE / SOUTH KOREA / THAILAND

Theme: Environmental Politics and Policy

Advisor(s): Jakkrit Sangkhamanee

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: In the upsurge of international food crisis, intensifying environmental hazards, and protracting setback of agricultural industry, organic farming emerged as an alternative to the shortcomings of conventional farming. Increasing awareness of food security and well-being has stimulated the growth of organic agriculture in the international community, and various studies have corroborated the widely held belief that organic agriculture bears more economic benefits and empowerment to the farmers. Although Thailand has been a pioneer in instigating organic efforts in Southeast Asia, absence of a stable guiding system and effective governance has left the organic agriculture at an infant stage despite rich resources in vast arable land. Among different key actors that constitute the organic network, the research will focus on the role of government as a guiding and supporting entity that supports the promotion of organic agriculture in technology, seed money, education, as well as establishing and governing a stable organic development system for the farmers is crucial to develop the infant organic industry. In light of this, this research will take extensive investigation into the role of government in systemizing and providing workable institutional support for promotion of organic agriculture in Thailand, through assessment of South Korea’s organic promotional policies and a case study on a village that has developed through government assistance. Through comparisons, the research will conclude with a discussion of what kind of policies can be applied from the South Korean model, and suggest policy recommendations for further improvements

Farmers' perceptions and strategies towards a changing climate in peri-urban aquaculture: A case study of Thanh Tri District, Hanoi, Vietnam

Title: Farmers' perceptions and strategies towards a changing climate in peri-urban aquaculture: A case study of Thanh Tri District, Hanoi, Vietnam

Author: Nguyen Ngoc Huong

Year: 2014

Keywords: PERCEPTIONS, CLIMATE VARIABILITY, FARMING SCALES, PERIURBAN, AQUACULTURE, ADAPTATION

Theme: Environmental Politics and Policy

Advisor(s): Jakkrit Sangkhamanee

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: Climate change and variability poses serious risks and impacts on natural-based production activities including aquaculture. Little studies have been devoted to discovering how farmers perceive climate variability and its impacts and the relationship between the perceptions and adaptive responses. This research focuses on the perceptions and strategies of peri-urban fish farmers at different farming scales in the Thanh Tri District, Hanoi in a context of changing climate and urbanization. The study found out that peri-urban fish farmers have an increasing concern about local climate variability, especially in temperature, rainfall variability and frequency and intensity of extreme climatic events. However, most of interviewed farmers relied on recent climate variability in short-term instead of long-term changes in climate. Furthermore, the results show that farmers at different farming scales perceived different degree of climate variability impacts. Small-scale farms are perceived to affect most from the changes in climate variability and become the most vulnerable to those changes comparing to others scales. Besides, impacts from climate variability affect both negatively and positively to farmers and are exacerbated by non-climate factors including urbanization. Farmers mainly use autonomous adaptive strategies based on personal experience in order to response to changes in climate and its impacts. Water stress and land tenure are identified as two key barriers for farmers to decline adaptive capacity in a changing climate

The dynamics of local agricultural knowledge and sustainability : A case study of a Pa-O Community in Shan State, Burma

Title: The dynamics of local agricultural knowledge and sustainability : A case study of a Pa-O Community in Shan State, Burma

Author: Aung Tay Zar Oo

Year: 2014

Keywords: DYNAMISM OF LOCAL KNOWLEDGE, LIVELIHOOD, SUSTAINABILITY, 70 AGRICULTURE

Theme: Environmental Politics and Policy

Advisor(s): Narumon Arunotai

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: The Pa-O, the seventh largest ethnic group in Burma, engage primarily in agriculture, having practiced traditional farming methods for generations. However, in the past few decades, they have started adopting new knowledge from industrial agriculture. This is their strategy to sustain their livelihood endangered by the decreasing amount of land in ratio to the increasing population. This strategy, however, has not proved to be feasible as Pa-O farmers have to rely on input-intensive farming methods leading to more expenses and less income. This has resulted in heavy debt among farmers, out-migration of the young Pa-O, and intensifying environmental issues. Drawing upon the in-depth interviews with Pa-O farmers, NGO workers and agricultural experts in Southern Shan Region, this thesis examines the dynamics of change in local agricultural knowledge of the Pa-O and its impact on their livelihood sustainability. This thesis argues that the integration of new knowledge from industrial agriculture cannot bring about sustainability because this new knowledge cannot solve the issues of population and land scarcity. This analysis enables us to understand the process of change in local agricultural knowledge of the Pa-O and challenges imposed on the sustainability of their livelihood

Networks of practice around open science : a case study on the House of Natural Fiber Foundation in Yogyakarta, Indonesia

Title: Networks of practice around open science : a case study on the House of Natural Fiber Foundation in Yogyakarta, Indonesia

Author: Hermes Taikan Huang

Year: 2014

Keywords: N/A

Theme: Environmental Politics and Policy

Advisor(s): Carl Middleton, advisor, Denisa Kera, co-advisor

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: Open science is a burgeoning concept and practice that promotes the production of scientific knowledge in a way that is accessible, transparent, and inclusive; in this sense, it is relevant to development studies. The house of Natural Fiber Foundation has been involving the practice of science, as well as art and other creative endeavors, in Yogyakarta, Indonesia since 1999. In the process, the House of Natural Fiber Foundation has created a cosmopolitan network of participants and collaborators, which has implemented various interdisciplinary projects and events between formal and informal institutions of science. This thesis assesses this network’s diversity and its views on openness, collaboration, science, and community development. There is a profound gap in research regarding open science communities in Asia, much less Indonesia, and the work of these communities is critical for understanding the potential for international development efforts both locally and internationally. Through a combination of participant observation, textual and web analysis, key informant interviews, and survey questionnaires, this research found that the community of practice around open science in Yogyakarta has the potential to represent a model for community development

Access to and usage of clean water in peri-urban Vietnam : A case study of Gia Lam district, Hanoi

Title: Access to and usage of clean water in peri-urban Vietnam : A case study of Gia Lam district, Hanoi

Author: Nguyen Thi Huyen Cham

Year: 2014

Keywords: ACCESS / USAGE / CLEAN WATER / PERI- URBAN / VIETNAM

Theme: Environmental Politics and Policy

Advisor(s): Jakkrit Sangkhamanee

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: It is broadly recognized that water plays an important role in sustainable development, especially for poverty reduction. The challenge is how to ensure water quality and quantity is adequate. Piped water is highly recommended to be used in communities because it is treated properly and can reduce exploitation of groundwater from scattered private wells. In peri- urban Vietnam, the local government of Gia Lam district in Hanoi has made a great deal of effort to set up a piped supply to communes but still usage is low. The purpose of this research is to investigate the situation of clean water usage, analyze the factors which affect to water usage in Gia Lam district and evaluate how water governance in the field works. With this, it hopes to find some solutions to improve clean water usage for the locals in the future. Findings from the research show that the level of clean water usage is not high and there is inequality in usage. The key elements which affect to clean water usage in communes which are covered by piped supply are income, the demography of households and education of household headman. Those communes without access to a piped supply are mainly geographically difficult for water mills to reach. Evaluation shows that in Gia Lam district domestic water governance does not work because it does not achieve the transparency, communication and accountability. From what has been discovered, the study discloses that to improve clean water usage in the district it is necessary to consider how to improve water governance. Also solutions are needed for the challenges affecting clean water usage for communes with and without a piped supply. The research highlights the necessity of clear mandate mechanisms through specific documents, guidelines to all levels, and responsibilities of the district government to be transparent to increase the communicative activities among stakeholders, efficiency and enhance accountability. The paper closes with the some recommendations for specialized ministries, departments, Gia Lam district government to water suppliers to facilitate the implementation of some solutions above. It calls for coordination between relevant agencies vertically and horizontally, with guidelines to Gia Lam district government to deploy water management more effectively

The role of water governance in hydropower in Bhutan : a case study of Mangdechhu Hydroelectric Project

Title: The role of water governance in hydropower in Bhutan : a case study of Mangdechhu Hydroelectric Project

Author: Sangay Tashi

Year: 2013

Keywords: WATER GOVERNANCE / HYDROPOWER / EQUITY AND SUSTAINABILITY / DECISION-MAKING PROCESS

Theme: Environmental Politics and Policy

Advisor(s): Jakkirt Sangkhamanee

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: This study investigates hydropower development in Bhutan, and analyses its roles of sustainability through the frame-work of water governance, focusing on the decision making process. The Royal Government of Bhutan’s aspiration to achieve “economic self-reliance” by the year 2020 has accelerated the construction of hydropower in various river basins. However, with its limitations on the implication of effective decision-making process and the nation’s water governance, impacts and resistance have emerged at the local level where the hydropower project are developed.The ongoing Mangdechhu Hydroelectric Project development at Trongsa is taken as a case study to examine decision making process in water governance. To understand the dynamism, twenty five key informants from various organizations including Mangdechhu Hydroelectric Project authority were extensively interviewed. Besides, two participatory focus group discussions in the villages of Samcholing and Kungarabten were held to understand people’s perspective. Lastly, this study also draws data from official reports, documents and Medias.Using the concept of water governance, this study argues that there is a lack of water governance in Mangdechhu Hydroelectric Project. The study shows that while the process towards water governance is ongoing and being challenged by internal and external factors, the situation in country’s whole management can be considered merely as “water government”. The decision making process is still of traditional nature, a top–down approach. The other interesting phenomenon observed is the notion of “national interest” which indeed has overshadowed the new approach of decision making, i.e. the bottom-up or grassroots approach. This analysis helps us to understand why general public and the government tend to correspond to a call for greater national interest; at the time leaving a section of affected society unhappy in the GNH driven society. However, there is strong indication from the government in working towards water governance. Therefore, a paradigm shift from “water government” or from “state centric” to more “decentralized” integrated water governance is necessary for sustainable hydropower development in the country in general and Mangdechhu in particular

Renewable energy development and environmental justice in Thailand : case studies of biomass energy projects in Roi-Et and Suphanburi province

Title: Renewable energy development and environmental justice in Thailand : case studies of biomass energy projects in Roi-Et and Suphanburi province

Author: Yeji Yoo

Year: 2013

Keywords: ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE/RENEWABLE ENERGY/BIOMASS POWER PLANT/THAILAND

Theme: Environmental Politics and Policy

Advisor(s): Carl Middleton

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: This thesis examines the development of biomass energy projects in Thailand from the perspective of environmental justice. Thailand has allowed private power producers to generate energy from biomass, an important source of renewable energy, in order to increase energy security and to reduce CO2 emissions. However, some biomass projects in Thailand have resulted in negative environmental impacts and social problems, such as air pollution and health problems for villagers near the projects, and thus result in environmental injustices. Applying the concept of environmental justice, the thesis assesses conditions that ensure environmental justice in biomass power projects in Thailand. A case study was carried out using a qualitative methodology to collect data during field research conducted in Roi-Et and Suphanburi provinces in June 2013. This thesis points out firstly, that renewable energy generation is not always free of negative impacts to the environment and nearby communities. Secondly, construction including technology utilization and operational standards depend on the will of private companies due to loopholes in Thai policies and regulations. Lastly, the thesis argues that problems were not adequately addressed in the case in Roi-Et province because of the limited accountability of the business sector and provincial administrative government, as well as the limited influence of Local Administrative Organizations (LAOs) such as the Provincial Administrative Organization (PAO) and Tambon Administrative Organization (TAO).

Governance and changes of economic and food security in Myanmar : Case study of Letpadaung Copper Mine

Title: Governance and changes of economic and food security in Myanmar : Case study of Letpadaung Copper Mine

Author: April Kyu Kyu

Year: 2013

Keywords: ECONOMIC SECURITY / FOOD SECURITY / GOVERNANCE /, LETPADAUNG COPPER MINE

Theme: Environmental Politics and Policy

Advisor(s): Carl Middleton

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: This thesis evaluates the governance of Letpadaung copper mine project from the beginning of the project. Since 2010, the Union of Myanmar Economic Holding Ltd_(MEHL) has implemented the Letpadaung copper mine project in Sagaing State as a joint venture with Chinese companies. The thesis investigates the relationship between poor governance at the project and environment and social damages associated with the project that has impacted the economic and food security of thousands of local villagers who live around Letpadaung Mountain. These villagers alongside students and monks have protested against the copper mine and attracted the support of Media, NGOs and political parties. Letpadaung copper mine has emerged as one of the most important issues in Myanmar.This research focuses on the decision making or Letpadaung project and the participation, transparency and accountability of the different actors that shape the governance of the project area. This study also evaluates changes in human security of local people due to the implementation of the project, especially changes of economic and food security. The research used qualitative methods including semi-structure interviews, key-informants interview, group discussion and observationThe thesis conclude that implementation of Letpadaung copper mine project has affected the economic and food security of local communities. The implementations of the governance mechanisms (Participation, Transparency and Accountability) are poor, which has thereby failed to recognize and redress negative impacts on economic and food security of local communities.

The policy debate between poverty reduction and environmental protection in Bhutan : a case study of Shingkhar-Gorgan Road in Lhuntse District

Title: The policy debate between poverty reduction and environmental protection in Bhutan : a case study of Shingkhar-Gorgan Road in Lhuntse District

Author: Tashi Penjor

Year: 2012

Keywords: N/A

Theme: Environmental Politics and Policy

Advisor(s): Carl Middleton

The full thesis available here.

Abstract:

Transboder rubber investment and its implications on food security in Lao PDR : A case study of Thai rubber plantations in Atsaphone, Savannakhet province

Title: Transboder rubber investment and its implications on food security in Lao PDR : A case study of Thai rubber plantations in Atsaphone, Savannakhet province

Author: Sawapa Tangsawapak

Year: 2011

Keywords: RUBBER PLANTATIONS, THAI INVESTMENT, FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT, POLITICAL ECOLOGY, LAO PDR

Theme: Environmental Politics and Policy

Advisor(s): Vira Somboon

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: Lao PDR is a resource rich but cash poor country where approximately 80% of the population live in rural areas and are subsistence or semi-subsistence farmers, the majority of whom still rely on agriculture and other natural resources for food production to satisfy their dietary needs. Industrial tree plantations, including rubber, have been promoted to the Government of Lao PDR to champion poverty eradication in Lao PDR. Private-sector actors from Thailand, China and Vietnam are all investors in rubber plantations in Lao PDR. To understand changes in rural food security, it is critical to study the changes in land tenure, access to natural resources and other social changes within host communities as a result of foreign direct investments (FDI) in rubber plantations in Lao PDR. Thaihua Rubber has made its rubber plantation investments in five provinces in Lao PDR including Don Kuang plantation, the area of the case study. The establishment of Don Kuang affected four villages including Kan Tiew village in Atsaphone District, Savannakhet Province. The study investigates how government, private sector, and civil society actors and the community themselves interact within the process of Thai transborder rubber investment in Lao PDR, and ultimately how this process accounts for and affects food security in Kan Tiew village using the political ecology approach. Findings reveal how Don Kuang plantation have caused changes which include land tenure security, decline in Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) in Kan Tiew village and particularly the sub-standard contract conditions of Kan Tiew plantation households with the company have caused vulnerability to food insecurity. However, there are other factors causing the vulnerability beyond these immediate changes including the corporate behaviour of Thaihua Rubber and the process of its rubber investments in Lao PDR where the politics of power overriding the need to lessen the social and environmental impact on the ground and hence discounting food security. Given the growth of industrial plantation development in Lao PDR could not be reverted, the resultant food insecurity condition may eventually also threaten other aspects of human security.

Strengthening environmental governance in Vietnam: a case study of community response to pollution of the Thi Vai River

Title: Strengthening environmental governance in Vietnam: a case study of community response to pollution of the Thi Vai River

Author: Xuan Sang Vo

Year: 2011

Keywords: Environmental governance / Resource Mobilization Theory / Thi Vai, River.

Theme: Environmental Politics and Policy

Advisor(s): Carl Middleton

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: Vedan Vietnam, a fully-owned Taiwanese enterprise, polluted the Thi Vai River in Southern Vietnam from 1994 to 2008, and had caused negative impacts to the health and livelihoods of thousands of river-side local farmers in Ba Ria-Vung Tau and Dong Nai provinces, and Ho Chi Minh City. In response to the problems caused by river pollution, between 1994 to 2011 local communities have adopted a variety of different strategies, cooperating with state and non-state actors, to empower themselves to strengthen local environmental governance and to stop the pollution. This study investigates the emergence of the concept of environmental governance in Vietnam using the Thi Vai River as a case study. The study applies Resource Mobilization Theory to evaluate the communities’ ability to organize themselves to mobilize outside resources and utilize political opportunities between 1994 and 2011 to protect their livelihoods and health. To understand how actors interacted together over the timeline of the river pollution, residents of Long Tho commune, Dong Nai province and Thanh An commune, Ho Chi Minh City were interviewed, together with non-state actors including the media, lawyers, Consumers Protection Associations, and distributors, and governmental authorities at the commune, district and provincial level in Dong Nai Province and Ho Chi Minh City. The Thi Vai River case demonstrates a strong policy conflict between prioritizing economic growth versus ensuring environment protection during the period of transition from a plan-and-control economic model to market-based economic model in Vietnam, since 1986. Under this transformation, natural resources have increasingly been utilized or affected by industrial activities that previously had supported agricultural activities. In response, local communities have learned to organize amongst themselves and to network with state and non-state actors that support environmental protection to call for improved accountability, legitimacy and enforcement of Vietnam’s legal framework to enhance environmental governance. This study finds that in the context of improving democracy in Vietnam, communities and non-state actors have gained more space to participate in environmental governance, and their involvement is an important factor that enhances local environmental protection.

The roles of the community, private sector, and local authority in recycling in Bangkok's gated communities

Title: The roles of the community, private sector, and local authority in recycling in Bangkok's gated communities

Author: Patra Jirawisan

Year: 2011

Keywords: RECYCLING/SOURCE SEPARATION/ BANGKOK/HOUSEHOLD, SOLID WASTE/ GATED COMMUNITIES/ MOO BAAN/PRIVATE RECYCLING, AGENT/LOCAL AUTHORITY/BMA/BANGKOK METROPOLITAN, ADMINISTRATION

Theme: Environmental Politics and Policy

Advisor(s): Carl Middleton

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: Recycling, as proposed by the UN to be one of the means to achieve sustainable development, has not been practiced sufficiently at the household level in Bangkok where waste problem is endemic. This research focuses on recycling in Bangkok’s gated communities of which their prevalence and consuming-class residents render them an ideal target group for a source separation program. The roles of three major stakeholders were examined -- the gated community itself, the private recycling agent, and the local authority in charge of waste management. The goal is to understand the interrelated roles of these three stakeholders, and how they affect recycling efforts in gated communities. The research was conducted on 23 gated communities, out of which 4 were chosen for case studies. Interviews were conducted with community members, private recyclers, and officers at the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) and the municipalities. Findings indicates that the first two stakeholders were found to play an active role in the community recycling program as community residents sort waste to be collected for sale later to private recycling agents (who then sell it to bigger buyers), in the absence of a formal recycling system. In terms of the gated community, findings show that social capital – in the aspects of the community’s committee, its supporting staff, its pro-recycling leader, volunteers, and networks -- as well as convenience especially of having a central storage area for recyclables play a crucial role in the success of a recycling program, while economic status may potentially play a role although further research is needed to confirm this. In terms of the private recycling agent, its availability and reliability play an important role. In terms of the local authority such as the BMA, it plays no role in the gated communities’ recycling program. However, the research points out that the role of the local authority is, in fact, needed to improve the current situation. Findings reveal three potential factors that have been preventing the BMA from contributing more to recycling. The first is the lack of commitment from policymakers on recycling, which is caused by the constant change of leadership, the lack of staff in the field, and the lack of public awareness. The second is the potential conflict of interest on the part of different participants in the informal recycling system. The third is the impracticality of the BMA in issuing regulations to support source separation due to the lack of real mandate, and the absence of supportive system and the right policy mix.

The impact of organic rice contract farming on farmers' livelihood and land tenure in Cambodia : a case study in Kampong Speu province

Title: The impact of organic rice contract farming on farmers' livelihood and land tenure in Cambodia : a case study in Kampong Speu province

Author: Betti Rosita Sari

Year: 2010

Keywords: N/A

Theme: Environmental Politics and Policy

Advisor(s): Carl Middleton

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: This study examines organic rice contract farming in Cambodia and its impact on farmers‟ livelihood and land tenure. The study‟s objective is to gain a better insight of the terms and conditions of rice contract farming scheme in Cambodia, and determine under what conditions contract farming could bring improvements to farmers‟ livelihoods and strengthen land tenure security. This study contributes new research findings on farmers‟ livelihood and land ownership changes due to organic-rice contract farming with a case study in Kampong Speu province, Cambodia. Rice contract farming is not widespread in Cambodia at present, but is expected to expand significantly in the near future. Contract farming can increase investment into agricultural and infrastructure in rural areas. Contract farming can also enable farmers to access credit, inputs, technical advice and information about market condition and pricing trends. Yet, the disadvantages of contract farming include loss of farmer bargaining power and a potential reduction in profit margins, increased emphasis on improving production quality, land consolidation in favor of participating contract farmers, and less secure livelihoods. In this study, the contract farming arrangements of Angkor Kasekam Rongroeung (AKR) Company is studied. A survey of 16 contract farmers and 20 non-contract farmers in Kampong Speu province has been undertaken to examine the AKR contract farming scheme arrangements and to identify farmer‟s motivations to participate in contract farming and the costs, benefits and changes in the community. AKR rice contract farming improves farmers‟ livelihood because they get a higher income and rice yields. Higher price, good rice seed, and access to market are the main reasons for farmers to participate in AKR contract farming. However, strict requirements, heavy penalties, poor extension services, and lack of information about the contract terms and conditions reduce farmers‟ long-term participation in contract farming. In addition, contract farmers have less bargaining power to negotiate with the company due to the absence of a farmer association. The AKR contract farming does not strengthen farmers‟ land tenure, but deforestation has been widespread in the villages studied due to the expansion of land under (contract) cultivation. Overall, the status of contract farming in Cambodia clearly points to the great potential for its expansion in the future. However, for this to be realized and for the benefits to be shared fairly between companies and the farmers themselves, the study concludes that issues about the role of the government, the regulatory framework, contract enforcement, the land tenure system and the formation of small-scale farmer organizations must all be addressed.

Palm oil plantations in Indonesia : government policy and its impact on indigenous peoples in West Kalimantan Province

Title: Palm oil plantations in Indonesia : government policy and its impact on indigenous peoples in West Kalimantan Province

Author: Rukka Sombolinggi

Year: 2009

Keywords: N/A

Theme: Environmental Politics and Policy

Advisor(s): Vira Somboon

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: This study is about the challenges faced by indigenous peoples in globalization era where modernization and development are inevitable making indigenous peoples among the most vulnerable sections of society. Land, territory and resources that are considered sacred, part of their identity and cultural integrity are at stake. Therefore, they need protections to ensure continuity of their very existence. This research focuses on land acquisition process for palm oil plantations and its impacts on the life of indigenous peoples in West Kalimantan, Indonesia. The study tries to find out how the government policymaking process carried out in West Kalimantan’s palm oil plantation and what are the impacts of government policy on palm oil plantations to the indigenous peoples in West Kalimantan? It is found that the conditional recognition on the rights of indigenous peoples within the Indonesia’s legal framework has caused problems around 1) land, culture and identity; 2) food security and livelihood; 3) water resources; 4) criminalization of indigenous leaders and costly justice; 5) the loss of sacred sites and; 6) indigenous women. The study recommends a reform in the national laws and policy to be consistent with international standard to ensure the protection of indigenous peoples and further prevent them from social exclusion and discrimination.

Key governance factors of integrated coastal management (ICM) at the local level, North Sulawesi, Indonesia

Title: Key governance factors of integrated coastal management (ICM) at the local level, North Sulawesi, Indonesia

Author: Bernadetta Puspita Devi

Year: 2008

Keywords: N/A

Theme: Environmental Politics and Policy

Advisor(s): Nantana Gajaseni

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: This research examines key governance factors for integrated coastal management at the local level in northern Sulawesi, Indonesia. The measurement of governance factors was developed from two conceptual principles to identify key factors and differing perspectives among key groups for the sustainability of integrated coastal management. The first principle is based on a quantitative study method for two villages (Atet Oki Village and Basan 1 Village). Key governance factors at the village level were assessed through the interaction between social and ecological systems. The second principle combines qualitative and quantitative methods with expert groups (government officials, non-profit organization staff or development workers, and scientists). These expert groups provide further explanations of key governance factors for integrated coastal management at the local level and assign values ​​to the importance of each factor. The research findings indicate 19... Key factors crucial for the sustainability of integrated coastal management vary in status and urgency at different levels of acceptance, categorized as “agreement,” “initial,” and “controversial.” Both village leaders agreed on the success of integrated coastal management, highlighting the vital role of leadership in transforming it from a significant failure to a adaptable approach. Expert group data reveals clear differences in the importance of key factors among government officials, non-profit organizations, development workers, and scientists and villagers at the grassroots level. These differences in valuing key governance factors are influenced by the perspectives of the groups involved in integrated coastal management, impacting their viewpoints on the outcomes and subsequent consequences of the initiative. This research examines key governance factors of Integrated Coastal Management (ICM) at the local level, North Sulawesi, Indonesia. Measures of governance factors are developed from two approaches to determine the key factors and the perception differences among major parties for ICM sustainability. The first approach is based on a qualitative methodology for two villages: Atep Oki village and Basaan I village. Key governance factors at these two villages were assessed through interaction of social and ecological systems. The second approach combined qualitative and quantitative methods to a group of experts (government officials, NGOs/development workers and scientists). The group of experts provided further explanation of the key governance factors of ICM at the local level and placed values ​​on the degree of importance for each factor. The research findings indicate there are nineteen key governance factors that are important for the sustainability of ICM. However, the status and urgency of the factors are different for each where they have been categorized as 'reach', 'intermediary' and 'contradictory' agreements. Therefore, for the two villages, leadership clearly determines the success of ICM. The role of a key person is vital for transforming ICM from a critical failure to adaptive management. The information obtained from the group of experts illustrated that the degree of importance for key governance factors is markedly different amongst government officials, NGO workers and scientists as well as villagers on the ground level. Differences in valuing key governance factors were influenced by parties' perceptions of their roles in ICM. This, in turn, affects the way each party views the outcomes of ICM and the outcomes that follow.

Community environmental education and the roles of international aid agencies : a case study of Mai Ja Yang Community, Kachin State, Myanmar

Title: Community environmental education and the roles of international aid agencies : a case study of Mai Ja Yang Community, Kachin State, Myanmar

Author: Nang Thinn Thinn Tun

Year: 2008

Keywords: ENVIRONMETNAL EDUCATION/ COMMUNITY /, EMPOWERMENT/INTERNATIONAL AID AGENCIES/POST POLITICAL, CONFLICT AREA/MAI JA YANG/KACHIN STATE/MYANMAR

Theme: Environmental Politics and Policy

Advisor(s): Keokham Kraisorapong, advisor, Ingon P. Trebuil, co-advisor

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: This research investigates the impacts of the community environmental education program implemented by the Pan Kachin Development Society Environmental project in Mai Ja Yang, Kachin State, Myanmar. The study aims to ascertain the role of international aid agencies in this post-political conflict region. A participatory approach was employed in field research, and an outcome-based evaluation comprising the planning-process-product model was applied for measuring the impacts of the program. Measurements were derived from the qualitative data collected based on the activities of two key villages, namely: Prang Ngwan and Seng Mai Pa. There were 48 participants in the research representing several key stakeholders. The research findings revealed that the participants obtained more knowledge and understanding in: conservation awareness, problem identification, and community waste management practices. As a result, staff capacity building took place to ensure that further activities corresponded to community needs. Based on the evidence acquired from this research, international aid agencies have a key role in post-conflict regions to provide resources for the local NGO to: facilitate environmental education and activities, conduct capacity building for social workers and youth leaders, and continue mediation between communities and local government to prevent future conflicts while ensuring positive local environmental outcomes and the development of the community.

Community based natural resources management, gender and livelihood in Cambodia : a case study of Toul Neang Sav Community Protected Area, Kompong Thom Province

Title: Community based natural resources management, gender and livelihood in Cambodia : a case study of Toul Neang Sav Community Protected Area, Kompong Thom Province

Author: Sophorn Ly

Year: 2008

Keywords: GENDER, LIVELIHOOD, COMMUNITY BASED NATURAL resource

Theme: Environmental Politics and Policy

Advisor(s): Doneys, Philippe, advisor, Naruemon Thabchumpon, co-advisor

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: Community based natural resources management (CBNRM) is regarded as a significant strategy in the conservation of natural resources and sustainability of rural livelihoods in Cambodia, helps to reduce poverty and increase local participation in resources management. This research aims to investigate the implementation of this approach at the local level with the special attention to its outcomes towards the sustainability of women’s and men’s livelihood and their roles in generating activities. The study uses data from both of primary and secondary sources. The secondary data are relied on books, research documents and reports while the primary data are derived from field research, using the case study method. Data collection techniques include in-depth interview, semi-structure and participant observation. First, thirteen people from the community were selected and categorized upon their jobs. Then, five people were chosen among these interviewees for the household case studies. The Toul Neang Sav Community Protected Area has been classified as a fishing-agriculture dependent village in which fishing remains the main livelihood activity and dominant other occupation. Secondary or supplementary occupations such as fish cage, chicken-pig rearing, crops and lotus cultivation, and small business operation also contribute to household income generation particularly for household daily expenditure. Women’s and men’s are responsible for different livelihood activities. Men are more concerned with the primary occupation while women are much involve in supplementary jobs. After establishment of the community, there is the positive impact on the local community livelihoods regarding to rights, freedom and capacity building. The implementation and the management tasks of the community provide opportunities for people to maintain and secure their livelihood with more freedom to access to and own the resources ground. They are more understanding about how to manage, conserve and use resources in a sustainable way. More livelihood options and other saving society program are also provided in order to up-grade the living conditions. The relationship between women and men slightly improve due to the integration of women in income generating activities, ability to use and to access to resources and community management participation. Women gain more opportunities to engage in household economic distribution which lead to increase the ability in managing household tasks and decision making.

Changes and challenges of community forest practices in forest-dependent communites in kachin state

Title: Changes and challenges of community forest practices in forest-dependent communites in kachin state

Author: Theera Wanasanpraikhieo

Year: 2008

Keywords: N/A

Theme: Environmental Politics and Policy

Advisor(s): Chantana Banpasirichote, advisor

The full thesis available here.

Abstract: This paper examines the hanges and challenges faced by traditional community forest management systems under the changing political and socio-economic conditions in the post conflict areas along the Myanmar/China Border administered by the Kachin Independence Organization (KIO). This research investigates the development and current state of the forest management practices of Forest-Dependent Communities in the Sin Lum Mountain range of Bhamo District, Kachin State, Myanmar. The research focuses on the livelihood challenges these communities face in the political and socio-economic environment since the 194 ceasefire agreement between the Burmese Junta and the Kachin Independence Organization. This paper discusses the different approaches and projects introduced to Forest-Dependent Communities by different stakeholders under the name of development during this period, how these communities have fared under these development schemes, and the role of local Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) in this proess. This research uses a Participatory Rural Appraisal methodology to investigate the variety of ways that local people have responded to the changes and challenges which have impacted their livelihood and natural environment. Extensive interviews with key informants and focus group discussions formed the core of this methodology. The study found that Challenges faced by local communities arising from aexchanging natural resources for rapid development, b) Cross-border trade under the expansion of market driven economy, c) top-down urbanization plan, d) the change to modern agriculture, e) the influence of private sector, and f) local people's limited access to the forest resources.