Thailand celebrated International Day for Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem on July 26, bringing attention to the vital role mangroves play in the country's environment. The day also marked an opportunity to raise awareness about the beauty, wonder, and benefits of mangroves as a vital part of the environment.
Natural Resources and Environment Minister Varawut Silpa-archa shared how Thailand has made significant progress in its conservation efforts. The government has helped expand the country's mangroves by 200,000 rai compared to 2014, according to images captured by the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (Gistda) satellite. Thailand now has 1.74 million rai of mangrove forests.
The Thai Government's long-term goal is to cover 40% of the country's area in forests and mangroves, on the path to achieving its net-zero goal by 2065. Silpa-archa admits that for the reforestation and conservation of mangroves to be successful, different sectors need to work together.
As per data released by UNESCO, mangroves are disappearing three to five times faster than forests across the world, so people, especially the youth, need to be educated about the importance of the mangrove ecosystem. In 2020, UNESCO Bangkok scheduled a field trip to the Salakphet Mangrove Walkway on Koh Chang as a way of raising awareness among the young ones.
By promoting education, cooperation, and sustainable practices, we can preserve the natural beauty of Thailand's mangroves and ensure the continued benefits they provide.
