March 21 marks the International Day of Forests, established by the United Nations to call upon nations worldwide to protect and sustainably manage forest resources. The theme for 2026 is "Forests and Economies," emphasizing that the value of forests extends far beyond the trees themselves - it is deeply intertwined with economic development, employment opportunities, sustainable practices, and ecotourism. In Thailand, Erawan National Park in Kanchanaburi Province offers a vivid illustration of this theme through its meticulous and steadfast commitment to environmental stewardship.
Established in 1975 as Thailand's 12th national park, Erawan spans approximately 550 square kilometers. Renowned for its lush mountain forests, striking karst landscapes, and a stunning seven-tiered waterfall, the park draws hundreds of thousands of visitors each year to marvel at nature's artistry.
Within Erawan, the forests and flowing waters are more than just scenery - they form a stage where life unfolds in intricate interdependence. In this green sanctuary, diverse animals and plants coexist, weaving a complex and resilient ecosystem.
To preserve this tranquility and purity, the park enforces a series of regulations. Smoking is entirely prohibited. Visitors are not allowed to bring food into the waterfall area. Beverage bottles with caps require a deposit, refunded upon exit. Notably, from the third waterfall upward, no trash bins or public restrooms are provided - encouraging visitors to carry their own waste back. These rules, though administratively demanding, ensure the long-term health of the forest ecosystem.
The park also monitors weather conditions daily, updating trail and water access information in real time - safeguarding visitors while enhancing the overall experience. Behind such meticulous practices lies a deep reverence for nature and a long-term vision: conservation is not about restriction, but about ensuring that beauty endures.
Standing before the cascades of Erawan, listening to the gentle flow of water and watching the sway of shadowed leaves, we may come to truly understand the essence of "Forests and Economies." True prosperity lies not in how much we take from nature, but in how gently we choose to coexist with it. To treat forests with greater respect and to tread more lightly upon the natural world is the only way to ensure that such beauty will flourish for generations to come.
Photographers: Sun Weitong, Wan Houde
Text: Sun Weitong, Yu Yang
