A Study of the Role of Monks in the Conservation of Forest Resources in National Reserved Forests: A Case Study of Temple in the Mae Rim National Forests Reserve, Mae Rim District, Chiang Mai Province

Abstract

This academic article aims to study the role of monks in forest resource conservation in national forest reserves: a case study of temples in Mae Rim National Forest Reserves, Pong Yaeng Sub-district, Mae Ram Sub-district, Saluang Sub-district, Mae Rim District, Chiang Mai Province. The results of the study found that forests are an important natural resource. If forests are destroyed or exploited without realizing their value, it will affect environmental resources. Therefore, they are highly worthy of conservation. Buddhism has a deep relationship with forests. Living according to the way of life according to nature and the environment in Buddhism has become an important principle in the activities of monks in the present era, especially monks in Thai society who have applied the concept of natural resource and environmental conservation to their work with the community. Monks can use the principles of Buddhism as a guideline for forest resource conservation, integrate with the community, and cooperate with government officials to help and jointly care for forest resources in Mae Rim District, Chiang Mai Province, which currently has a lot of tourism development. Therefore, using community knowledge and participation is important in creating understanding about natural resource conservation and promoting sustainable tourism.