"Reversing the loss. We are turning the tide at Bang Khun Thian, transforming eroded coastlines into a Blue Carbon fortress against climate change."
2040
Carbon Neutrality
Goal
14m/yr
Historical Erosion
Rate (Combatting)
~140
tC/ha Biomass
Potential
The Threat
Severe Coastal Erosion & Land Subsidence
The Bang Khun Thian district represents the "frontline" of Thailand’s battle against the sea. Historically a dense mangrove belt, the area has lost 50-65% of its forests to aquaculture conversion.
Without intervention, erosion rates exceed 10 meters per year. KMUTT’s campus here is not just a university site; it is a strategic bulwark protecting the hinterland.
Implemented by KMUTT & Phanthai Norasing Community
Before planting can begin, the land must be stabilized. We employ "Soft Structure" engineering to combat wave energy at the Bang Khun Thian Campus and Phanthai Norasing subdistrict.
Rows of bamboo stakes are driven into the mudflat. Unlike concrete walls, these permeable structures break wave energy without causing scouring.
The calm water behind the bamboo allows suspended sediment to settle, gradually raising the mudflat elevation to a level where mangroves can survive.
Bamboo has a lifespan of 2-3 years. Our monthly "Action Days" involve inspecting and repairing these fences to prevent failure.
Kongkang Bai Lek
The primary species for BKT restoration. Selected for robust prop roots that stabilize sediment in the intertidal zone.
Kongkang Bai Yai
Planted alongside R. apiculata to diversify the mangrove stand and enhance coastal resilience.
Pong
A complementary mangrove species that supports structural diversity in the rehabilitated area.
Data since 2022
Driven by KMUTT students, staff (nurseries & planting), and public volunteers. Open learning sessions for schools and external visitors.
Visualizing our efforts in restoring the mangrove ecosystem. Click to expand.
Sustainable restoration cannot be achieved by contractors alone. We cultivate "Change Agents"—students who possess both technical competence and environmental ethics.
Restoration is continuous. We mobilize volunteers on the last Wednesday of every month for planting and maintenance.
Engineering students analyze bamboo structures; Science students monitor water quality. Real-world problem solving.
We don't just plant; we measure. Precision carbon accounting via the ThaiFlux Network.
Micrometeorological towers measure the exchange of CO2 and water vapor 10 times per second to calculate Net Ecosystem Exchange (NEE).
Precision TechMangrove reforestation sequesters ~60% more carbon per hectare than terrestrial forests. Soil carbon pool recovery is critical.
High ImpactMonitoring confirms the return of indicator species: Mudskippers, Fiddler Crabs, and Coastal Birds, signaling a functional food web.
Eco-HealthThis roadmap is part of our commitment to the Nature Positive Universities Alliance.
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