The Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR) and PTT Global Chemical Public Company Limited (GC), in collaboration with the public sectors in Rayong province, the communities of Nern Kho and Thang Kwian sub-districts in Klaeng district, Rayong province, collaborate to organize mangrove reforestation activities. This initiative aims to sequester carbon dioxide as part of the Net Zero goal and to release crabs to promote livelihoods and improve the quality of life for the local communities in Rayong. The project, known as "Plant more trees, the better it will be," was officiated by Mr. Traipob Wongtrairat, the Governor of Rayong province. Also, Mr. Apichai Ekwanakul, Acting Director-General of the DMCR, and Dr. Kongkrapan Intarajang, CEO and President of GC, along with executives, community members, and staff participating in the mangrove reforestation activity in Nern Kho sub-district, Klaeng district, Rayong province.

Mr. Apichai Ekwanakul, Acting Director-General of the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR), emphasized the importance of addressing the global warming crisis and promoting strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. He highlighted the mangrove reforestation project as a pathway to benefit from carbon credits, fostering collaboration between the government, private sector, and local communities in conserving and restoring mangrove forests within the DMCR's areas of responsibility. These areas have been encroached upon or degraded, and the goal is to return them to thriving mangrove ecosystems with a balanced environment. The DMCR is actively pushing for cooperation from all sectors to address the issues, expedite the rehabilitation of degraded forest areas, and expand mangrove areas to serve as carbon sinks. Additionally, the department oversees and monitors project implementation, submitting applications for project registration under the Thailand Voluntary Emission Reduction Program (T-VER) to the private organization managing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions (a private organization). Furthermore, they are submitting applications to certify GHG quantities or carbon credits.

The DMCR and GC collaborate with the communities of Nern Kho and Thang Kwian sub-districts in Klaeng district, Rayong province, to jointly plant trees to develop and restore degraded forest areas. The initiative also aims to promote the expansion of mangrove areas, with plans to extend the project to Chanthaburi, Trat, and Phetchaburi provinces, covering over 3,400 acres. Upon completion of the project, it will not only enhance the biodiversity of mangrove forests but also support strong communities, livelihoods, and the economy in the region.

Dr. Kongkrapan Intharajang, CEO and President of PTT Global Chemical Public Company Limited (GC), stated that GC is dedicated to creating a better quality of life for everyone through "Chemistry for Better Living." The company plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 20% by 2030 and is committed to achieving Net Zero by 2050. As global citizens, they aim to pass on a better world to the next generation. Engaging in activities for society and the environment, the company collaborates with the government, private sector, and local communities in tree planting, restoration, and forest conservation. This aligns with their continuous efforts in obtaining high-quality carbon credits since 2013, spanning over 6,000 acres in four provinces: Rayong, Trat, Chanthaburi, and Phetchaburi. It is estimated to help reduce approximately 23,700 tons of CO2e annually. In addition, GC conducts crab release activities at the Raksam Bridge to promote the livelihoods of local fishermen, contributing to the overall improvement of community life.

This project's success is a result of the collaboration of all sectors. Once the project implementation in the DMCR's area is completed, it will bring benefits in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and alleviating the impacts of climate change. Additionally, it will contribute to creating jobs, supporting livelihoods, and strengthening the local economy in the future.

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