Research on the topic of the recovery, rehabilitation, restoration and conservation of the reefs at Koh Sak and other islands in Pattaya Bay
Tourism has long been the focus of tourism marketing for countries, such as Thailand, largely because of perceived economic benefits. However, tourism is implicated to be one of the major causes of coral reef degradation. Reef tourism may impact reefs through direct activities such as diving and snorkelling, as well as indirect impacts from poorly planned coastal development and overharvesting of marine life to support tourism-associated businesses. Separating direct and indirect impacts is problematic where infrastructure exists (Siriwong et al., 2018).
The Sustainability Research Cluster is investigating the threats to coral reefs and aims to provide sustainable, cost effective measures and activities that are less damaging than present practices. To protect the reefs, we will establish well trained, professional and knowledgeable Tour Guides and Staff that have the skills and motivation to exhibit reef friendly behaviour; pass on reef related knowledge to visitors; and, along with Citizen Science activities for visitors, help in the recovery, rehabilitation, restoration and conservation of the reefs at Koh Sak and other islands in Pattaya Bay.
Reference:
Siriwong S, James Dominic TJ, and Piromvarakorn S. (2018). Number of tourists has less impact on coral reef health than the presence of tourism infrastructure. Retrieved on 17 September 2020 from https://rdo.psu.ac.th/sjstweb/journal/40-6/25.pdf
