THE PROCESS OF BALANCING NATURAL RESOURCES AND THE ENVIRONMENT ON THE BASIS OF THE EASTERN ECONOMIC CORRIDOR

Abstract

This article aims to study the process of balancing natural resources and the environment based on the economic development platform in the eastern region of Thailand, particularly in Chonburi province. It employs mixed-method research, utilizing a sample group consisting of 400 residents of Chonburi province and 19 key informants and focus group discussion participants. Questionnaires and interviews were used as research tools. Data were analyzed using frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, and content analysis methods. The study findings reveal that: 1) The overall condition of the process of balancing natural resources and the environment is at the highest level, considering aspects such as process coherence, oversight, conflict management mechanisms, resource management, user perception and rights, outcomes of resource management, regulations and resource management, and the clarity of boundaries. 2) Problems encountered in the process include mainly conflicts related to rights in four categories: rights to access resources, rights to benefit from resource systems, rights in natural resource management, and rights conflict in resource access and lending. Violations of unauthorized rights were also identified. 3) Recommendations for the development of the process include studying and investigating problems and their causes, collectively devising and creating models and methods for problem-solving, participating in policy formulation or plans, decision-making on resource use, organizing or improving management systems, investing in environmental activities, adhering to environmental policies, and participating in monitoring, evaluation, and maintenance of projects.