N. Nirannoot, A. Abdelmaksoud, S. Barrameda, R. Pant, A. Plantilla, B. Shantiko, R. Wijethunga, and Y. Wei Yan

Phetchaburi province, located 120 km south of Bangkok, is celebrated as Thailand's "capital of birdwatching." This vibrant region boasts rich biodiversity and diverse ecosystems, including coastal areas, mangrove forests, and sandy beaches. It is home to critically endangered species such as the spoon-billed sandpiper and was recognized by UNESCO in 2021 for its creative food culture. Renowned as the country's largest sea salt production area, its landscape features a stunning expanse of shimmering white salt flats.

Despite its natural riches, Phetchaburi faces significant biodiversity challenges, particularly mangrove degradation caused by inadequate funding and competing land uses. A recent UNDP-BIOFIN Thailand study revealed that from 2021 to 2023, the national government allocated $6.28 billion in subsidies to local governments for rigid infrastructure projects in various fragile ecosystems across the country. These projects have negatively impacted river and coastal ecosystems, especially by developing irrigation systems and tourism infrastructure.

However, opportunities to reverse these trends are emerging through robust social enterprises, growing interest from local governments, and strong partnerships with the private sector. On December 4, a finance solution for a Sub-national Public-Private Partnership (PPP) to invest in a sustainable local bioeconomy in Phetchaburi Province was launched at UNESCAP in Bangkok. Delegations from Egypt, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Sri Lanka participated in this experience-sharing event.

Happy mangroves, sad mangroves in Mrigadayavan Palace