Thailand now officially has OECMs areas!!! On December 1, 2025, the National Biodiversity Conservation and Utilization Committee, in its 1/2025 meeting, passed a resolution to recognize 5 OECMs areas in Thailand:

1. Biodiversity and Sustainability Learning Center "Chiwapanavet," Chachoengsao Province - Proposed by Toyota Motor Thailand Company Limited

2. Wang Chan Forest Learning Center, Rayong Province - Proposed by PTT Public Company Limited

3. Urban Forest Learning Center, Bangkok - Proposed by PTT Public Company Limited

4. Khlong Khanom Chin, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province - Proposed by Nestlé (Thai) Limited

5. Singha Park Chiang Rai - 70 Rai Reservoir Area, Chiang Rai Province - Proposed by Singha Park Chiang Rai Company Limited

The recognition of these 5 areas marks the beginning of pioneering efforts to serve as examples for all interested sectors to collaborate in driving and expanding results for Thailand 🤝 towards the goal of conserving, restoring, and sustainably utilizing biodiversity in Thailand with concrete support from various sectors.

Before getting to know all 5 areas, let's get acquainted with OECMs areas once again:

💚 Other Effective Area-based Conservation Measures (OECMs) 💚

"Areas with clearly defined geographical boundaries that are outside protected areas and are managed to achieve positive and sustainable long-term outcomes for the conservation of biodiversity in natural habitats, including maintaining the roles and services of ecosystems. This may also encompass cultural values and relevant associated ecosystem functions and structures, as well as spiritual, affective, cultural, and other locally relevant values."

How are OECMs important for biodiversity?

🌿 "Expanding conservation networks" without establishing new protected areas, creating ecological corridors to support ecosystem monitoring and maintenance. They serve as puzzle pieces completing connections between large forest patches.

🏡 Promoting community and local management: Creating voluntary participation enabling restoration, area stewardship, and sustainable use.

🐾 Protecting species habitats: Because biodiversity exists not only in protected areas but also in habitats and refuges for diverse species that are facing threats and are at risk of extinction.

🎯 Fulfilling national and global targets: OECMs will help support participation and fill the gaps in biodiversity protection and conservation, including opportunities to achieve the 30x30 target.

How interesting will these 5 OECMs areas be? Let's follow along!!!

For more information, contact: Policy and Mechanism Implementation Division Biodiversity Management Bureau

📱 Tel.: 0 2265 6560

✉️ E-mail: onep.flyway@gmail.com

Source: Office of Natural Resources and Environmental Policy and Planning