Mangrove forests play important roles in the biodiversity and the natural protection of coastal zones from storms and sea level rise. They contribute significantly to carbon sequestration, but also play an important role in local livelihoods and socio-economic development. However, 20 percent of the global mangroves have been lost due to deforestation and a wide range of human activities since 1980. Conserving, and if necessary restoring, these vital ecosystems is critical for sustaining the natural environment and livelihoods along tropical coasts. Many countries, including Thailand, are committed to increasing mangrove habitats by 20% by 2030. Nationwide, the total mangrove areas have steadily increased over the past few years, but with significant regional differences, including a continued decline in some areas. There is still a knowledge gap regarding the ways that different actors influence mangrove management, particularly regarding the role of local solutions and government agencies.
This project will start from a driver-pressure-state-impact-response (DPSIR) analysis of changes in mangrove forests in Thailand. This will be done using a Resource Nexus approach. In a second step, the actors involved in the mangrove management system will be identified, including their peculiar interests and power constellations among different actors.
This research will offer an actor analysis and guidelines to enhance and develop the sustainability of mangrove management in Thailand. Scientific results will be communicated to practitioners and the UN country team in Thailand, including advocacy products such as policy briefs.
The project is funded by DAAD under the Development-Related Postgraduate Courses (EPOS) programme.
