Rayong Wetland Ecosystem

NRM engages in the Rayong Botanical Garden

Last updated: 29 November 2022

Since 2021 after the outbreak of the COVID-19, NRM academic program of the Asian Institute of Technology sends students and faculties every year to learn from the wetland and biodiversity conservation, while sharing the experiences of biodiversity conservation and natural resources management from the global perspective.

About the Rayong Botanical Garden

The Rayong Botanical Garden in Thailand is a large wetland area with a diverse collection of rare native and endangered plants. The garden was established to be the center for the study, research, and collection of plants in the eastern region and, most importantly, to conserve plant resources. The garden is home to over 400 species of local plants that are not easy to find around the world, and some extremely rare plants. The Samet millennial forest is one of the important ecosystems in the garden, which contributes important ecological services. The garden is also a habitat for various animals and birds.

From a biodiversity and ecosystem perspective, the Rayong Botanical Garden is an important site for studying nature and spending time in nature. The garden offers many activities to choose from, such as cycling, kayaking, and an amphibious tour, which is a combination of land and water excursions, where there will be learning activities on natural tourism, wetlands, and local plants. The garden is a perfect destination in Thailand for anyone who likes to study nature or wants to spend time in nature. The diversity of Rayong Botanic Gardens offers many activities to choose from.

Students walk to observe tree species

Area of Rayong Botanical Garden

Floating Grass and Plants in the Garden

Soil Organic Carbon

Carbon in the soil is an important aspect of ecosystem health and sustainability. The Rayong Botanical Garden in Thailand is a wetland area that is considered an important sink for carbon storage. Wetlands are known to store large amounts of carbon in the soil, which is important for controlling global warming. The soil fertility in the permanent plot of the garden is relatively low, with calcium as the most concentrated element. The soil is loam, sandy loam mixed with silt.

The Eco-Forest Rayong Wanarom project in Thailand is another example of carbon storage in the soil. The project is registered as a project that helps reduce or store greenhouse gases, substantially reducing global warming. The project aims to restore degraded land and create a sustainable forest ecosystem that can store carbon in the soil

NRM Students' Annual Visit to the Rayong Botanical Garden

Observing the floating grass

Lecturing by the Rayong staff

Observing wetland landscape

NRM's Collaboration with Rayong Botanical Garden: Cultivating Climate Resilience and Biodiversity Preservation

Nestled within the serene landscapes of Rayong, Thailand, Rayong Botanical Garden stands as a sanctuary of plant diversity and a living laboratory for environmental research. Over the past two decades, the Natural Resources Management (NRM) program at the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) has actively engaged with this verdant haven, emphasizing the critical importance of climate resilience, biodiversity preservation, and the integration of scientific research with conservation practices.

Climate Resilience Initiatives: Within the lush confines of Rayong Botanical Garden, NRM students and researchers have conducted extensive studies to understand the intricate relationship between botanical diversity and climate resilience. By meticulously measuring soil organic carbon levels, investigating wetland conservation techniques, and assessing the garden's ability to sequester carbon, NRM has contributed pivotal data that informs local and regional climate action plans. These initiatives align with AIT's commitment to shared Climate Action Plans, fostering collaboration with local government and community groups to address pressing environmental challenges.

Biodiversity Conservation: Rayong Botanical Garden's vibrant ecosystems provide a canvas for NRM's biodiversity preservation efforts. NRM students have delved into the heart of this botanical paradise, conducting research on the plant species that call it home. The data collected has enriched our understanding of local flora, identified species of conservation concern, and highlighted the garden's role as a genetic reservoir for plant diversity.

Community Engagement: NRM's engagement extends beyond research and into the realm of community involvement. Recognizing the garden's significance to the local community, NRM has facilitated dialogues between researchers, local stakeholders, and residents. These conversations have led to collaborative efforts that ensure the preservation of Rayong Botanical Garden's ecological treasures while fostering a sense of shared responsibility among community members.

NRM's collaboration with Rayong Botanical Garden epitomizes a holistic approach to climate resilience, biodiversity preservation, and community involvement. By actively contributing to scientific research, integrating their findings into climate action initiatives, and engaging with local stakeholders, NRM plays a pivotal role in safeguarding this botanical gem. This enduring partnership stands as a testament to NRM's commitment to making a meaningful impact on both the environment and society by harmonizing research, conservation, and community-driven efforts in the heart of Rayong Botanical Garden.

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