Bangkok: The National Biodiversity Research and Development Agency (NBT) is calling on the people of Thailand to participate in shaping the future of the world through activities planned for the International Day for Biological Diversity 2026.
According to Thai News Agency, the Office of Natural Resources and Environmental Policy and Planning (ONREP) has organized events under the theme 'Acting Locally for Global Impact.' These activities aim to enhance awareness and understanding of biodiversity's importance while encouraging its conservation and sustainable use. The initiative stresses the role of various sectors in supporting global biodiversity goals, highlighting that biodiversity directly influences essential aspects of life such as food, water, air, health, and economic stability.
The event will feature an exhibition titled "Mother of Biodiversity Protection," alongside displays from government agencies, private organizations, educational institutions, and network organizations. These exhibitions showcase the collective role in managing natural resources. A key feature will be awarding certificates to areas recognized as biodiversity conservation areas outside protected spaces, known as Other Effective Area-based Conservation Measures (OECMs). Additionally, forums will facilitate discussions among government, business, educational, and environmental representatives on three main topics:
1) A special seminar presenting the book "Some of My Observations on Biodiversity in Thailand," authored by Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, organized by the IBD2025 Conference Organizing Committee.
2) A session on strengthening networks to drive change in Thai biodiversity, featuring representatives from the Bio-Economic Development Office, Thai Business Council for Sustainable Development (TBCSD), Mahidol University, Karen Association for Sustainable Development, and the Global Youth Network on Biodiversity in Thailand.
3) A discussion on Thai businesses and their nature-positive mission, focusing on local actions for global impact, led by the Global Compact Network Thailand.
The National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA) emphasized that insights from these discussions will aid Thailand's preparation for the 17th Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD COP 17), scheduled to occur in Armenia at the end of October 2026.
"Because protecting biodiversity is not the responsibility of any one person, but a collective effort from everyone to preserve the planet for future generations."