A seminar titled 'Council of Small Fish' was recently held, focusing on the pressing need to address the impact of fishing regulations on marine life. The event took place on February 22, 2023, just days before the Senate was to review amendments to the Fishing Act. Organized by various groups including the Thai Marine Conservation Network and marine scholars, the seminar aimed to highlight the threat posed by the proposed changes to fishing practices.
Participants gathered to raise awareness of the ecological significance of Thailand's seas. The discussions centered around how the new regulations, particularly those allowing the usage of fine mesh nets for nighttime fishing, could devastate local marine ecosystems. Marine biodiversity, characterized by unique species and delicate food chains, is at risk of disruption if these amendments proceed unchecked.
Phet Manopawit, advisor to the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources, poignantly stated, "Because the sea belongs to all lives on Earth, not just to one person!" His statement underscored the communal responsibility toward marine resource guardianship. He elaborated on the concept of sustainable fishing by emphasizing, “The abundance of the sea is being exploited without recognition of its value.” Participants at the seminar echoed these sentiments, advocating for stricter conservation measures.
Complementing the discussions were presentations featuring stunning underwater photography taken during recent dives. These visuals were intended not only to showcase the beauty of Thailand's marine life but also to demonstrate the adverse effects of current and potentially harmful fishing practices. Documentary photographer Nat Sumantemee remarked, "These small fish are part of the food chain, and their loss disrupts the entire ecosystem." His images highlighted the urgency of protecting these species, which play a pivotal role in maintaining the balance of marine habitats.
The gathering affirmed the necessity of public engagement and education on the importance of marine conservation. The discussion also illuminated how common citizens could become advocates for science and environmental preservation. Phet Manopawit noted, "We have diverse resources underwater, but we must take care of them with balance," reiterate the collaborative effort needed to safeguard these natural assets.
Wachara Kanjasut, a seasoned black water diver, raised significant concerns about the alarming speed at which regulations supporting destructive fishing methods are being proposed. He posed the rhetorical question: "Why are laws promoting destructive methods like fine mesh fishing gear being rushed, but laws protecting nature are sidelined?" This frustration reflects the widespread sentiments among environmentalists who observe priorities skewed heavily toward short-term economic gain rather than sustainable practices.
The seminar closed on a hopeful note, with attendees committing to continue their advocacy efforts. Emphasizing the interconnectedness of humans and the marine ecosystem, they expressed the need for system-wide reforms to tilt the scales back toward conservation and responsible stewardship. The participants underscored the importance of community engagement for future legislation, reiteratively calling for awareness and action against the diminishing protections of Thailand's marine resources.
Through discussions, visual evidence, and collective voices, the ‘Council of Small Fish’ successfully demonstrated the urgent need for immediate action to protect the marine environments and set the stage for informed advocacy heading toward the Senate vote. The path forward may be fraught with challenges, but the commitment of local communities to conserve their seas remains unwavering.