In celebration of World Environment Day 2026, observed on 5 June, under the global theme “Inspired by Nature for Climate. For Our Future.” and Thailand’s main theme, “Global Call for Climate Action: Join, Change, and Build a Thailand Ready for a Warming World,” the initiative aimed to promote ecosystem restoration and strengthen collaboration among all sectors in addressing the climate change crisis.
On 30 June 2026, the YMCA for Northern Development Foundation participated in the “Forest Planting, Check Dam Construction, and Ecosystem Restoration” activity together with environmental partners, led by the Raks Thai Foundation and the Biodiversity-Based Economy Development Office (Public Organization). The activity was also supported by government agencies, the private sector, and non-governmental organizations, including the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, Boonthavorn Retail Corporation Public Company Limited, Chiang Mai Branch, Ammannor Chiang Mai Hotel, Sabai Sabai Chiang Mai Hotel, and the Development and Social Services Unit of the Christian Council of Thailand.
The activity was held in Ban Hua Lao, Pa Pae Subdistrict, Mae Taeng District, Chiang Mai Province, to promote participation from all sectors in the conservation and restoration of natural resources based on the Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES) approach and the Nature Positive concept, under the theme “Restoring Nature for the Sustainability of People and Ecosystems.” The initiative focused on strengthening the capacity and participation of upstream communities through forest planting, check dam construction, and the restoration of the Mae Taeng upstream forest area.
The activity played an important role in promoting the conservation and restoration of biodiversity, enhancing ecosystem health, and strengthening water resource security in the upstream areas and tributaries of the Mae Lao River. It also helped raise awareness and foster collaboration among communities, government agencies, the private sector, and civil society in jointly conserving and protecting natural resources and the environment. These efforts contribute to balanced and sustainable development for both communities and ecosystems.
