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  

Photos 1-2: A stark contrast between the deteriorating mangroves in the demonstration center adjacent to the Palace (left image) and the thriving, naturally flourishing mangroves in the freshwater dunes (right photo).

A site visit highlighted efforts to address the adverse impacts of poorly designed subsidies. Historically, the Mrigadayavan Palace, built by King Rama VI in 1924, remained unaffected by coastal erosion. However, this changed after a major typhoon in 1997 raised concerns, prompting the construction of rigid structures such as groins and seawalls. Over the next two decades, these measures exacerbated the erosion problem. Additional interventions, such as planting invasive alien species like Casuarina equisetifolia and introducing Rhizophora apiculata mangroves, further disrupted the ecosystem. These mangroves, reliant on tidal saltwater influx, threatened the Palace's freshwater systems and appeared unhealthy.

Photo 3: The removal of rigid seawalls along the beach at the Palace, making way for a more natural coastal ecosystem.

In response, Ms. Klaomas Yipinsoi, Director of the Mrigadayavan Palace Foundation, collaborated with botanists and marine scientists to document the damage caused by these interventions. They initiated the deconstruction of rigid infrastructure, replacing it with nature-based solutions to restore the beach ecosystem and encourage natural dune formation.

Photo 4: A nature-based solution using zig-zag bamboo walls was introduced, designed to protect and enhance the beach ecosystem.

These efforts have facilitated the resurgence of native plants, creating critical habitats for biodiversity, including the near-threatened Malaysian plover. Dr. Kitichate Sridith, a renowned botanist, led the study alongside Dr. Sara Bumrungsri and a team of scientists. Their continuous work has driven significant changes to policies affecting the Palace's ecosystem.

Photos 5-6: Following the removal of groins and seawalls in front of the Palace, vibrant native plants like Ipomoea pes-caprae and Canavalia rosea have flourished on the newly formed beach. Delicate Malaysian plover eggs now rest on the sand, a testament to nature's gentle recovery.

Photo 7: Klaomas Yipinsoi collaborates with Associate Professor Dr. Kitichate Sridith to halt harmful construction practices and protect the Palace's beach ecosystem.

Previously, the Marine Department had spent $8.4 million constructing rigid infrastructure along the beach. However, scientific evidence presented to the Cabinet led to the allocation of $285,714 for the removal of these harmful structures. This initiative has effectively halted detrimental subsidies and construction projects, paving the way for sustainable, nature-based solutions to thrive.

Lessons on Reversing Harmful Subsidies

The Mrigadayavan Palace provided a unique backdrop for discussions on harmful subsidies, serving as a powerful symbol of the harmonious integration of nature conservation and cultural heritage preservation.

Participants explored innovative ways to redefine subsidies. They highlighted that subsidies go beyond traditional definitions, encompassing crucial fund transfers from various levels of government.

“The Mrigadayavan Palace visit taught me a valuable lesson about unintended consequences in development planning. The coastal wave barrier project in front of the palace exemplifies this. Although intended to protect the area, the barrier failed because it overlooked key coastal ecosystem dynamics and their long-term environmental impacts. This case underscores why thorough environmental impact assessments are vital for infrastructure development,” said Bayuni Shantiko (UNDP-BIOFIN Indonesia).

Clara Yan (UNDP-BIOFIN Malaysia) observed that the issue gained prominence due to respect for the Thai monarchy, elevating it to the Cabinet level and prompting decisive action. She also noted that many nature-friendly solutions are “siloed” in academia. Professor Kitichate shared, “Without BIOFIN’s outreach, I wouldn’t have understood how finance works or how my life’s work could contribute more meaningfully to mainstreaming nature-friendly solutions.”

Ahmed Abdullah (UNDP-BIOFIN Egypt) emphasized the importance of scientific evidence in interventions, while Ramitha Wijethunga (UNDP-BIOFIN Sri Lanka) highlighted the need to integrate coastal engineering solutions into education programs.

Ruchi Pant (UNDP-BIOFIN India) reflected on the unintended consequences of poorly planned development as a cautionary tale for policymakers to respect and integrate ecosystem dynamics into development projects.

Anabelle Plantilla (UNDP-BIOFIN Philippines) attributed the success of biodiversity restoration efforts to the right mix of expertise and personalities working together.

In Phetchaburi, biodiversity is intertwined with nature, culture, and gastronomy. Participants were treated to culinary gems once favored by the Thai royal family.

Photo 10: The iconic Milky Tree, a majestic 150-year-old sentinel, stands as a living testament to the Palace's rich history.

Lessons in implementing BIOFIN at the sub-national level.

Deputy Governor Mr. Pakapat Songwattanayuth shared his vision for effectively financing biodiversity initiatives. With a robust provincial budget of THB 200 million, he showcased entry points for Results-Based Budgeting. This approach promises a meaningful blended finance solution to bridge financial gaps at the regional level.

Lessons in finding the spoon-billed sandpiper

The journey continued to the Pak Thale sub-district. The livelihoods generated from eco-tourism and sustainable fisheries were the driving force behind the community's commitment. Pak Thale is also a haven for migratory birds, including the critically endangered spoon-billed sandpiper. The excitement in the air was palpable as two of these rare "spoonies" decided to show themselves during the visit. Their graceful presence served as a powerful reminder of the delicate balance between ecological preservation and economic development since the loss of the salt flats may spell doom for their annual visit to Pak Thale. Ramitha thinks that opportunities for bird conservation and bird watching could ignite interest amongst potential investors and experts. Local government could play a better role in attracting tourists by doing a few simple things like tourism promotion or providing facilities for visitors. The private ownership of some of the salt flats did not go unnoticed also with Ramitha and Ahmed who suggested options for OECM.

Bayuni works closely with Burung Indonesia (a local affiliate of Bird Life) and was thus impressed that the Bird Conservation Society of Thailand purchased land for a local nature reserve serving as a migratory bird sanctuary. The reserve is surrounded by salt farms managed by local farmers and fishermen. Working collaboratively with the community ensures the bird sanctuary remains undisturbed while locals can still maintain their livelihoods.

Niran Nirannoot (UNDP-BIOFIN Thailand) said, "When we chose Phetchaburi as our next flagship finance solution, I was overwhelmed with nostalgia, transported back to my childhood when my father would take me to this enchanting province. I can still picture the breathtaking beaches and the tantalizing aroma of local cuisine wafting through the air. Those moments were filled with pure joy and wonder, yet I was too young to fully appreciate the profound significance of the vibrant biodiversity and rich culture that enveloped us. Now, with BIOFIN, I hold a dream close to my heart: to see the little spoon-billed sandpipers returning from Siberia to winter in Phetchaburi year after year. Their arrival would be a beautiful symbol of our unwavering commitment to preserving this precious ecosystem.”

Lessons in mangrove conservation and sustainable use: the Lost Taste of Bang Taboon

During the visit to the vibrant community of Bang Taboon sub-district, the  team was inspired by the incredible women-led enterprises. The women developed food products from the fruits of the mangrove species Sonneratia ovata.  These women are not just preserving their culinary traditions; they are actively passing down artisanal skills to the younger generation; thus, Sheena dubbed them as teachers and storytellers. This commitment to sharing their heritage ensures that the community’s unique cultural identity remains vibrant and alive. Ruchi, said, “I couldn’t help but reflect on India’s own diverse communities, each with their own rich cultures and traditions. The Bangtaboon experience reaffirmed my belief that empowering such communities—especially women—to effectively utilize and preserve their customary practices and traditional knowledge can significantly contribute to livelihood security while conserving vital ecosystems.”

Anabelle, shared her thoughts, saying, “I truly appreciate the incredible efforts of Aunty Ree and her women’s association. She worked with the local school in preserving age-old recipes for their delicious food products—like juice, jam, and chili paste! This is a fantastic way to ensure that younger generations learn these culinary traditions. The situation here is very much like in the Philippines. We need a coherent policy framework that addresses both environmental and economic initiatives, allowing people and community organizations to thrive and upscale their enterprises. These organizations must receive capacity building in organizational, financial, and technical aspects to truly strengthen their foundations.”

This year, as Thailand initiates a new blended finance solution for Phetchaburi Province, Niran expresses optimism the country can achieve a triple win by addressing the interrelated challenges of biodiversity loss, climate change, and gender inequality. Recent assessments of the consequences stemming from the demolition of sea walls at the Mrigadayavan Palace have highlighted the critical need for a comprehensive re-evaluation of existing practices. The observed impacts on coastal ecology serve as a compelling indicator of the fragile equilibrium that must be maintained between developmental activities and the preservation of biodiversity.

The Learning Exchange has set the stage for a transformative approach to biodiversity financing. By sharing knowledge and experiences, participants are better equipped to tackle the challenges of biodiversity conservation in their respective countries. The collaborative spirit and innovative ideas generated during this event will undoubtedly pave the way for sustainable solutions that benefit both nature and local communities.