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Natural resources

Thailand Expands Marine Conservation Efforts with New Protection for Whales and Dolphins

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Thailand's cabinet has approved adding three marine mammals to the protected wildlife list, safeguarding ocean biodiversity and marking a significant step in the country's commitment to marine conservation. The decision to protect humpback whales, Bryde's whales, and Risso's dolphins will come into effect under the Wildlife Preservation and Protection Act B.E. 2562, which prohibits hunting, trading, importing, or exporting these species without special permission. This move aligns with Thailand's obligations under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (Cites) and is expected to restore marine ecosystem health, reduce trade-related risks, and enhance the country's conservation image.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Thai cabinet has approved adding three marine mammals to the protected wildlife list: humpback whales, Bryde's whales, and Risso's dolphins.
  • The species will be protected under the Wildlife Preservation and Protection Act B.E. 2562, which prohibits hunting, trading, importing, or exporting without special permission.
  • The animals face threats from accidental entanglement in fishing gear, maritime traffic, and illegal capture for display.
  • The new regulation aligns with Thailand's obligations under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (Cites).
  • The Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR) is piloting technologies such as acoustic deterrents, advanced materials, and automated aerial surveillance to reduce fishing gear entanglement and poaching risks.
  • The Foreign Affairs Ministry has recommended notifying Cites member countries of the new protection status to strengthen international collaboration and combat wildlife trafficking.
  • The three species have been observed in Thai waters, with humpback and Bryde's whales recorded since 1992, and Risso's dolphins stranded 11 times between 2003 and 2022.
  • The listing is expected to restore marine ecosystem health, reduce trade-related risks, enhance the country's conservation image, and inspire public awareness and sustainable ecotourism.

Statistics:

  • 11: The number of times Risso's dolphins have been stranded in Thai provinces between 2003 and 2022.
  • 1992: The year humpback and Bryde's whales were first recorded in Thai waters.
  • 2003-2022: The period during which Risso's dolphins have been stranded in Thai provinces.

Sources:

  • Pinsak Suraswadi, director-general of the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR)
  • Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment
  • Department of National Parks
  • Department of Fisheries
  • Foreign Affairs Ministry
  • Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (Cites)

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