General
Thailand Launches ‘SAVE OUR DUGONG’ Campaign to Prevent Extinction
The Department of Marine and Coastal Resources has initiated a new conservation campaign following data revealing 209 dugong strandings over the past decade.
On August 17, 2026, Thailand’s Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR) officially introduced the “SAVE OUR DUGONG” campaign. This initiative comes as a direct response to alarming environmental data collected over the last ten years, which recorded 209 dugong strandings. According to Khaosod English, the DMCR has identified that the species is currently facing an escalating risk of extinction.
DMCR Director-General Pinsak Suraswadi stated that the primary objective of this campaign is to reduce human-caused fatalities among the dugong population to zero. For residents and travelers, this initiative highlights the growing focus on marine conservation in Thailand’s coastal regions. Increased protection efforts may lead to new regulations or restricted access in specific marine habitats to ensure the safety of these animals.
While the campaign has been launched, specific operational details regarding how the DMCR plans to enforce these protections or how they will impact tourism activities in protected zones remain to be confirmed. Observers are waiting for further announcements on the specific strategies the department will employ to mitigate human-related threats. As the situation develops, those visiting coastal areas are encouraged to stay informed about local environmental guidelines to support these conservation efforts.