Integrating Community Forests, Community-Based Tourism, and the BCG Economy: Pathways to Gastrainable Tourism and Carbon Credit Management
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Abstract
This article aims to propose guidelines for the utilization role of community forests as a crucial mechanism for biodiversity conservation and the development of Gastrainable tourism. It highlights the interlinkages among natural resource management, community-based tourism (CBT), and economic value creation through the carbon credit market, which aligns with the Bio-Circular-Green Economy framework (BCG). Community forests serve not only as a foundation of economic, cultural, and environmental resources but also as a repository of plant genetic information that can be leveraged to assess carbon sequestration potential and reduce greenhouse gas emissions effectively, particularly when integrated with the Plant Genetic Conservation Project under the Royal Initiative (RSPG) and related collaborative networks. Findings from case studies and research indicate that service businesses can reduce several hundred thousand tons of CO₂e emissions through energy, water, and waste management measures, as well as by using local organic ingredients and supporting businesses with robust carbon management systems. The conceptual framework proposed in this article—the integration of Plant Conservation, CBT, Carbon Credit, and the BCG Model serves as both a theoretical tool and a practical guideline for advancing Gastrainable tourism. Key recommendations include supporting the formal registration of community forests, establishing tax incentives for businesses utilizing local raw materials, creating research networks to develop carbon footprint assessment tools, and enhancing consumer awareness through sustainable food labeling and eco-learning activities. This article argues that integrating plant conservation, community-based tourism, and carbon management is a pivotal mechanism for Thailand to achieve its Net Zero Carbon target while preserving natural resources and local cultural heritage sustainably.
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