ไทย
The Department of Marine and Coastal Resources, Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, in collaboration with SCG through CPAC Green Solution, supported by Thai Union Group Public Company Limited, has undertaken the establishment of a coral nursery using 3D Printing Solution in the Siam Bay, Racha Yai island, Phuket. The initiative involves setting up 88 sets in the deteriorating coral reef areas.
The coral reefs in Racha Yai island, Siam Bay, cover approximately 50 rais, with a significant portion showing signs of deterioration. Some areas have experienced permanent damage, resulting from various factors such as underwater tourism activities, abandoned fishing gear, and natural coral bleaching. Natural recovery is challenging in these areas.
To address this, the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources has initiated coral restoration efforts, including coral planting and the establishment of various coral nursery models. While these efforts have been satisfactory, the tourist nature of Koh Racha poses a challenge in maintaining aesthetic harmony with the natural coral reef due to the materials used in the restoration.
In response, the authorities have explored the development of materials that closely resemble or complement the natural coral reef structure. This led to the development of the coral nursery base using 3D Printing technology, a collaborative effort between the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources, SCG CPAC Green Solution, and the Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University.
The 3D Printing technology involves designing models of various natural coral reef shapes using concrete material that is environmentally friendly, structurally robust, and mimics the natural coral reef. The material is lightweight, allowing easy movement underwater by divers to save costs. This initiative aligns with the Department’s conservation approach.
Thai Union Group Public Company Limited, has provided financial support for the project. In Phuket Province, the company will continue supporting the initiative for a period of three years. After the initial setup, it is expected that the coral planting will commence within a year, followed by continuous activities organized by the Department.
The Department of Marine and Coastal Resources will promote the involvement of local dive shop operators with trained divers who can engage in coral planting activities in the area, under the supervision of authorities and in compliance with relevant laws.
Images and news provided by the Public Relations Office of Phuket Province.