Case Study- Internationally Shared Water Resource Flashcards
What countries span the Lancang-Mekong River Basin?
China, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam
What is the approximate length of the Lancang-Mekong River?
Approximately 4,350 kilometers
What are the key issues faced in the Lancang-Mekong River Basin?
- Water allocation
- Dam construction
- Agricultural and fishery impacts
- Environmental degradation
- Growing demand for water due to economic and population growth
What concerns arise from dam construction in the Lancang-Mekong River Basin?
Reduced water availability and ecological impacts for downstream countries
How does the Mekong River impact agriculture and fisheries?
Supports vast agricultural lands and is one of the world’s most productive inland fisheries
What is the main concern for Vietnam regarding the Mekong River?
Impacts of upstream damming on water availability, sediment transport, and salinity intrusion
What is Laos’s goal in relation to hydropower projects?
To become the ‘battery of Southeast Asia’ by selling electricity generated from Mekong dams
What role does the Mekong River Commission (MRC) play?
Facilitates cooperation among lower Mekong countries and aims for sustainable river management
What actions has Vietnam taken regarding the Mekong River?
Participated in regional dialogues and advocated for sustainable river management
What are the concerns of Cambodia regarding upstream damming?
Potential reduction in fish stocks and changes in water levels affecting food security and livelihoods
What dual role does Thailand play in relation to the Mekong River?
User of the Mekong’s waters and a potential buyer of hydroelectric power from Laos
Fill in the blank: The MRC was established in _______.
[1995]
What challenges does the Lancang-Mekong River Basin face in balancing development and sustainability?
Unequal power dynamics and differing priorities among riparian states
True or False: The MRC has strong enforcement power over upstream countries.
False
What is the significance of international organizations and NGOs in the Lancang-Mekong River Basin?
Provide data, conduct assessments, and advocate for sustainable management
What are the main concerns for China regarding the Lancang-Mekong River?
Meeting energy demands and ensuring water security for its southwestern regions
What actions has Laos taken regarding its hydropower ambitions?
Pursued construction of large dams and engaged in the MRC process
What major environmental challenges are affecting the Lancang-Mekong River Basin?
Pollution, deforestation, and unsustainable agricultural practices
What is the impact of economic growth and population migration on the Lancang-Mekong River?
Increases demand for water and exacerbates strain on river resources
What is the primary function of the Lancang-Mekong Cooperation (LMC) framework?
To address concerns and promote cooperation among riparian nations
What is a key characteristic of the Mekong River’s fisheries?
It is the world’s most productive inland fishery, especially in the Tonle Sap Lake area
