Participation in the Development of Biodiversity Areas in the Community Ecosystem

Abstract

The research article aimed to: 1) investigate participation in developing biodiversity areas within the community ecosystem; 2) develop activities and biodiversity areas in the community ecosystem through community participation; and 3) promote participation in the development of biodiversity areas in the community ecosystem. The study employed documentary research, qualitative research, and action research approaches. Qualitative data were collected through focus group discussions with 18 key informants and in-depth interviews with 12 participants. An exchange platform was organized to discuss guidelines for promoting the participation process in area development, as well as a model for enhancing participation in biodiversity areas within the community ecosystem. The collected data were analyzed using explanatory and descriptive methods.

From the study, the following results were found: 1) The development of biodiversity within the community ecosystem across the three communities emphasizes legal participation, collaboration with relevant organizations and Local Administrative Organizations, and cooperation between the government and communities. These efforts aim to sustainably manage community forests and create a balance between nature and the lifestyles of people in Uthai Thani province. 2) The development of activities and biodiversity areas in the community ecosystem through community participation includes: (1) Learning resource activities within the area, such as occupational development, sustainable community career promotion, and forest protection. These activities include community forest boundary marking, forest patrols, building patrol pavilions, forest care and maintenance, and raising awareness about forest conservation; and (2) Activities to manage local biodiversity, including increasing green areas within the community to promote a green city, establishing the ‘Rom Sak’ market to conserve plant genetics, supporting organic farming, preventing and mitigating forest fires, and conserving local natural resources. 3) To promote participation in the development of biodiversity areas within the community ecosystem, the following activities need to be implemented to foster diversity in the area: (1) guidelines for raising awareness in developing and conserving community forests; (2) guidelines for implementing activities; (3) guidelines for enhancing and developing learning resources; (4) activities to raise awareness; (5) guidelines for raising awareness in conservation; (6) learning activities for community learning resources; and (7) enhancing community awareness to preserve the area around Huai Kha Khaeng Natural World Heritage Site in Uthai Thani province. These seven steps form a model to encourage participation in the development of biodiversity areas within the community ecosystem.