Forest conservation and wildlife protection

In partnership with Conservation International Asia-Pacific (CIAP)

Thailand boasts an abundance of plant, animal, and marine species, representing a globally important stronghold for threatened and endangered species. This remarkable biodiversity is now under threat from climate change, poaching, illegal logging, and encroachment.

In the past, 70% of the total land area of Thailand was covered with rich biodiversity, forming complex ecosystems. However, over the last 50 years, rapid development has resulted in encroachment into natural habitats of wildlife. This has spurred human-animal conflict and illegal poaching activities that fuel the wildlife trade.

The partnership will support Freeland—CIAP's local partner, in their Surviving Together Programme that helps to reduce illegal hunting and poaching by monitoring protected areas and wildlife. They also provide rangers with equipment and park protection skills and offer locals alternative income opportunities. The programme takes a comprehensive approach to conserving protected areas and biodiversity in the Dong Phayayen-Khao Yai Forest Complex (DPKY), a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site that comprises five protected areas and covers an area of over 6,000 km². DPKY contains important and significant natural habitats for onsite conservation of biological diversity, including threatened or vulnerable species of plants and animal.

The accelerating decline in wildlife populations will have long-term negative impacts on local communities as it takes away their natural capital and livelihoods. MSIG’s support will go towards local community capacity building and outreach programmes to raise awareness of the value of protecting biodiversity, so as to bring significant ecological and cultural benefits whilst driving revenue through eco-tourism.

Stay updated on the various efforts Freeland has undertaken to protect the wildlife in Thailand.