World Oceans Day, 8 June 2026 – Thailand’s seas were once rich with marine life and thriving coastal fishing communities. However, as marine resources began to deteriorate over time, the diversity of underwater species gradually declined. For the past 15 years, the “SCGC Fish Homes” initiative has played a vital role in restoring Thailand’s marine ecosystems, helping to enhance biodiversity and revive the abundance of coastal habitats. The project has brought together fishing communities, government agencies, academic institutions, researchers, and volunteers across the country in a shared mission to bring life back to Thailand’s seas.
Restoring Biodiversity and Rebalancing Marine Ecosystems
The essential of SCGC Fish Homes is the creation of habitats and nursery grounds for marine life, designed to enhance biodiversity and support the long-term recovery of marine ecosystems. According to surveys conducted by the Department of Marine Science, Faculty of Fisheries, Kasetsart University, in coastal areas of Rayong Province, marine biodiversity has increased significantly over the years. In 2025, researchers recorded as many as 284 marine species in areas where Fish Homes were installed, up from 174 species in 2022. Notably, the number of economically important fish species nearly tripled, rising from 10 species in 2018 to 28 species in 2025. These findings clearly demonstrate the recovery of marine ecosystem health and abundance. The initiative also contributes to long-term food security by helping ensure a sustainable supply of seafood for Thai communities and future generations.
The distinctive design of SCGC Fish Homes features cavities and openings of various sizes, creating suitable habitats for organisms across every level of the marine food chain—from plankton, sessile organisms, and juvenile marine life to commercially important fish and larger marine species. This interconnected ecosystem supports breeding, shelter, and feeding activities, making each Fish Home a “mini ecosystem” that helps marine life thrive and reproduce naturally.
From Restoring the Sea to Creating Income for Coastal Fishing Communities
As marine ecosystems recover, local fishing communities are experiencing positive changes as well. Small-scale fishers are able to catch more fish closer to shore, reducing travel distance, time at sea, and fuel expenses while increasing income stability for their families. Today, the initiative supports the livelihoods of more than 500 small-scale fishing families, demonstrating how ecosystem restoration can generate both environmental and socio-economic benefits for coastal communities.
Cross-Sector Collaboration for Sustainable Oceans
A key factor behind the success of SCGC Fish Homes is the strong collaboration among diverse stakeholders, including the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources, local fishing communities, government agencies, university researchers, and a nationwide network of more than 42,000 volunteers. Together, they have deployed Fish Homes across coastal areas in Rayong, Chonburi, Chanthaburi, Trat, and Ranong provinces, creating a collective movement dedicated to restoring and protecting Thailand’s marine ecosystems for future generations.
Supporting “Our Ocean, Our Future” on World Oceans Day 2026
World Oceans Day is celebrated annually on 8 June to raise awareness of the importance of healthy oceans and marine conservation. This year, the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources Office 1 organized the event under the theme “Our Ocean, Our Future”, emphasizing the connection between the future of the ocean and the future of humanity. SCGC participated in the event and received a certificate of recognition for its contribution to marine ecosystem restoration. The ceremony was presided over by Mr. Kanchai Thepworachai, Rayong Deputy Governor, at Laem Charoen Beach, Rayong. READ THE NEWS
