Banglamung, September 11th, 2024 –
The Office of Natural Resources and Environmental Policy and Planning (ONEP) hosted a forum today at the Community Hall of the Banglamung District Office to gather public opinions on a draft announcement concerning environmental protection measures in the district. The event was presided over by Ms. Kunlaphat Rattanapridakul, the Banglamung District Chief.
Mr. Itsaraphan Kanchanalekha, Director of the Community Environment and Specific Area Division at ONEP, highlighted the importance of environmental protection areas as legal tools to oversee and mitigate activities that could harm natural resources and the environment. He noted that under Sections 44 and 45 of the National Environmental Quality Promotion and Conservation Act B.E. 2535, 11 areas have been designated for environmental protection.
Banglamung and Sattahip Districts, known for their stunning natural and marine resources, have been under such protection since B.E. 2535. The current ministerial announcement, effective since B.E. 2563, will expire in July 2568. Mr. Kanchanalekha reported that the measures have successfully reduced environmental degradation over the years.
In fiscal year 2567, ONEP, in collaboration with Burapha University, conducted a study and drafted a new ministerial announcement. A seminar held on August 22-23 in Chonburi Province gathered feedback to refine the new measures, ensuring they align with Section 57 (2) of the 2017 Constitution of Thailand. This section mandates the state to manage resources sustainably and involve local communities in conservation efforts.
In essence, these steps will allow the environmental protection measures to continue and be renewed for the local area.