Turning trash into treasure: launching a new Community-Led Waste Bank in Phetchaburi, Thailand

A new chapter in sustainable waste management and coastal conservation is unfolding in Thailand. The United Nations Development Programme’s Biodiversity Finance Initiative (UNDP-BIOFIN), in collaboration with the Raks Thai Foundation and Krungthai Bank, has launched “From-Trash-to-Treasure: A Community-Led Waste Bank” in Phetchaburi Province. This innovative initiative transforms how local communities tackle waste, especially plastic pollution, through finance-based solutions and active community engagement.

A model for sustainable waste management

At the heart of this effort is the Laem Phak Bia Community Waste Bank, which is designed to mobilize community participation in recycling while creating financial and environmental incentives. It provides residents with an opportunity to sell recyclable materials, with proceeds directed into a Community Welfare and Environmental Fund. Designed by Krungthai Bank, this model ensures that environmental action improves the quality of life for residents while reducing pollution.

With the Raks Thai Foundation’s support, the project promotes better segregation of household and marine waste, keeping plastic and other debris out of fragile coastal ecosystems. By preventing trash from entering marine ecosystems, the project protects sensitive coastal environments and preserves regional biodiversity, aligning with the broader goals of UNDP-BIOFIN’s sustainable finance solutions.

More than a recycling center: a catalyst for change

Beyond being a collection point for recyclables, the Laem Phak Bia Community Waste Bank has a far-reaching impact, serving as a powerful platform for:

• Community Engagement: Empowering individuals to take an active role in environmental stewardship.
• Environmental Education: Raising awareness about the importance of reducing, reusing, and recycling waste.
• Economic Empowerment: Generating income streams while fostering sustainable habits.

One of the initiative’s standout features is its introduction of a nature-positive investment model. By aligning economic gains with environmental conservation, the project ensures that sustainable solutions are both achievable and impactful over the long term. Community members are inspired to become custodians of the environment, integrating conservation into everyday life.

A collective vision for sustainability

“From-Trash-to-Treasure” exemplifies the power of collaborative action. The joint efforts of UNDP-BIOFIN, the Raks Thai Foundation, Krungthai Bank, and the local community exemplify their shared commitment to pioneering waste management solutions that benefit both people and the environment. This initiative fosters coastal and marine ecosystem preservation while building community resilience, setting a benchmark for sustainable practices globally.

One of the initiative's defining moments saw local leaders, community members, and stakeholders come together for a symbolic beach cleanup on 18 May 2025. This united effort underscored their shared commitment to fight plastic pollution, safeguard marine biodiversity, and preserve the area's natural beauty for future generations.

Photo: A beach cleanup event marked a major milestone in the project’s launch, with local leaders, residents, and partners uniting to combat plastic pollution. 18 May 2025, Phetchaburi Province, Thailand

Marine and coastal conservation strategy: local wisdom driving sustainable solutions

In addition to the waste bank initiative, the BIOFIN project has successfully designed a community-led marine and coastal management strategy in Laem Phak Bia Sub-District, Ban Laem District, Phetchaburi Province. Local knowledge and participation were pivotal to shaping this strategy. Fisherfolk, shellfish gatherers, village leaders, and representatives from the Laem Phak Bia Sub-District Administrative Organization played vital roles in ensuring the plan reflected the needs and wisdom of those most connected to the region.

The partnership was further strengthened by invaluable contributions from the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources’ Mangrove Resource Management Center, alongside the dedicated staff of the Raks Thai Foundation.

This strategy introduces community-led food security measures for sustainable use while integrating innovative financial solutions under UNDP-BIOFIN. By aligning coastal preservation with financial sustainability, the initiative paves the way for long-term environmental and economic stability.

Looking ahead: protecting and sustaining precious coastal resources

With a strong foundation in place and commitment from all stakeholders, this initiative is poised to drive meaningful change in Phetchaburi Province. As efforts to reduce plastic waste, conserve biodiversity, and enhance community livelihoods continue, the “From-Trash-to-Treasure” initiative promises to be a hallmark of community-driven sustainability.