Guardians of the Ocean: A Collaborative Effort for Marine Conservation
When Natyada Thuasawad looks at the vast sea, she sees more than just water. As a student at Prince of Songkla University, she recognizes the ocean as a vital source of revenue for Thailand, providing both food and breathtaking tourist attractions along its shores and on its islands. Her deep connection to the marine environment inspired her to join the Marine Ecology Camp, an initiative aimed at educating young minds about the importance of protecting the ocean.
This camp is not only a learning opportunity but also a partnership between Chevron Thailand Exploration and Production and local institutions. The company, which has been involved in petroleum exploration and production in the Gulf of Thailand since the 1970s, is committed to fostering a strong relationship with the environment. Its efforts include various environmental campaigns designed to safeguard natural resources and reduce carbon dioxide emissions that threaten the marine ecosystem.
“The Thai sea is our home,” said Pornsuree Konanta, vice-president for corporate affairs at Chevron Thailand. “Everything that lives in the sea is our family. We must take good care of them.”
Building a New Generation of Marine Scientists
Natyada is part of a team known as the “guardians of the sea” by Chevron Thailand. These individuals are trained to assist in protecting the ocean and to prepare for future careers in marine science. The company emphasizes the importance of collaboration between public and private sectors to address the growing challenges of marine pollution.
According to Phaothep Cherdsukjai, who works for the Upper Andaman Sea Marine and Coastal Resources Research Center, managing marine and coastal resources requires cooperation from all sectors. “The management of marine and coastal resources cannot be done solely by the government. It requires cooperation from all sectors to mobilise efforts in conservation and environmental restoration.”
This year, the research center partnered with Chevron Thailand, Walailak University, and the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources to organize the 32nd Marine Ecology Camp. The event aims to expand the marine science workforce and develop a new generation of professionals who will play a crucial role in the sustainable conservation of Thailand’s marine environment.
Hands-On Learning for Future Scientists
The Marine Ecology Camp offers a blend of in-class training and outdoor activities, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings. They learn about the structure and functions of marine ecosystems, how to connect national policies with current environmental conditions, and how to put their knowledge into action.
Outside the classroom, participants explore different types of beaches, visit mangrove forests, and dive to observe coral reefs. Field trips provide opportunities to conduct experiments using modern equipment, offering students firsthand experience with marine ecology.
Over the years, more than 950 students from across the country have participated in the Marine Ecology Camps. This initiative supports state and private efforts to create a balance between utilizing and conserving marine resources. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the profession of environmental scientist, including those in marine science, is projected to grow by 7% from 2023 to 2033, reflecting increasing demand for professionals to tackle environmental challenges.
Climate Change and Its Impact on Coral Reefs
A significant focus of recent camp activities has been examining the health of coral reefs, allowing students to directly experience the effects of global warming on reef structures. The camp organized outdoor activities, including diving to observe coral reefs, between March and April, following reports of coral reef damage.
Coral bleaching was detected in eight national parks in the Gulf of Thailand and 11 parks in the Andaman Sea from April 2 to May 8 in 2024. Sirinat National Park in Phuket is among three national parks where bleaching was detected in more than half of the coral sampled.
“The ocean is warming because it absorbs heat from rising temperatures in the atmosphere,” said Laksanara Khwanchum, vice-director of Walailak University’s Center for Academic Service. “One impact is coral bleaching as higher temperatures cause corals to expel symbiotic algae, which give them colors and nutrients.”
Roughly 60-80% of coral in Thailand’s seas were found to suffer from bleaching, with 60% of these coral reefs saved and the rest dying. Officials have regrown coral in seven provinces, totaling 24 rai of reefs. Warmer seas also cause many marine species such as plankton and fish to migrate to cooler waters, disrupting food webs.
“If the sea environment worsens, the tourism and food industries in Thailand will be affected,” said Natyada.
Reducing Carbon Emissions for a Sustainable Future
In addition to developing the next generation of marine scientists, Chevron is actively working to combat global warming through environmental projects under Scope 1 and 2 for carbon dioxide emissions. Scope 1 refers to direct emissions from daily operations, while Scope 2 involves the purchase of electricity, heating, and cooling, whose production processes emit greenhouse gases.
Chevron Thailand operates at Pailin and Benchamas petroleum fields in the Gulf of Thailand and was awarded Block G2/65 in 2023 for exploration. The company is implementing initiatives such as using solar and wind power for operations and working on the “Topsides Reuse” project, which aims to repurpose offshore wellhead platforms.
Other pilot projects include the use of drones and robots to reduce carbon dioxide emissions while enhancing operational safety. “Chevron plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to reach our net-zero target by 2050,” said Pornsuree. The net-zero target refers to achieving a balance between greenhouse gas emissions and absorption.
