SUSTAINABLE LANDSCAPE MANAGEMENT USING ECOSYSTEM-BASED APPROACH : A CASE STUDY OF BANG NAM PUENG SUB DISTRICT SAMUTPRAKARN PROVINCE, THAILAND

Abstract

This research studied and analyzed the existing landscape management in Bang Nam Pueng sub district and applied the principles of sustainable landscape management using an ecosystem-based approach. The results proposed recommendations and strategies for the future planning of sustainable landscape management in the study area. Field research, in-depth interviews and focus groups including physical and human observations were used for data collection. Results determined that Bang Nam Pueng sub district had many diverse habitats including freshwater, estuarine and brackish water ecosystems which offered biodiversity on both the micro and macro scales. Meanwhile, Bang Nam Pueng sub district is currently experiencing environmental issues from wastewater problems, the degeneration of the soil by wastewater, reducing of quality and quantity of agricultural products, the intrusion of tidal sea water, the changing of land utilization, the decreasing of mangrove forest resulting in less protection from the Militia Sea. The increased salinity has produced an alkaline soil and the brine has caused both plant and animal diseases. Plant disease has also increased from the discharge of community wastewater. Local people and the Administration Organization of Bang Nam Pueng sub district are currently focusing their effects on wastewater treatment, but the change in the ecosystem is still ongoing. Hence, to sustain the ecosystems of Bang Nam Pueng sub district sustainable landscape management must be implemented, using an ecosystem-based approach to apply action plan strategies. The development and management of Bang Nam Pueng sub district can successfully interweave functional green infrastructure with new developments, while ensuring that the existing natural resources are retained. The functional connectivity of the area in and around the new developments will be increased by the creation of new habitats on previously ecologically denuded land. This approach could increase biodiversity and ecosystem development. The promotion of sustainable landscape management using an ecosystem-based approach for the development of Bang Nam Pueng sub district could enhance synergy between social, economic, and environmental aspects, and lead to success in sustainability.