Thailand’s Biosphere Reserves respond to Covid-19 pandemic

Biosphere Reserves are places that provide local solutions to global challenges. They seek to better understand and improve the relationship between people and nature.

Around the world, Biosphere Reserve communities are taking creative approaches to address the challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic. In Thailand, Biosphere Reserves have been promoting sustainable agricultural practices to improve the livelihoods of the community living within the area.

Small-scale horticulture, gardening and farming provides local communities with sufficient food and products for sale. In light of the pandemic, local communities have also enhanced hygiene practices in their daily lives. The core area of Thailand’s four Biosphere Reserves have been closed since the outbreak of the virus.

Although the revenue generated by the Thai Biosphere Reserves has been significantly reduced as a result of the closure, positive impacts have also been seen. The absence of visitors has allowed Biosphere Reserve management to repair tourist facilities and has led to a re-emergence of wildlife within the areas.