Title: The Importance of Further Research and International Cooperation on Mangrove Ecosystems.
Abstract: At the opening session of the symposium, it was emphasized that the flora and fauna of mangrove ecosystems were very rich in species diversity, and that mangrove forests were productive as forestry and fishery resources. Although mangrove ecosystems played an important role, it was being destroyed as a result of non-sustainable economic activities. Destruction of mangrove ecosystems was explained with examples in Thailand. Mangrove Ecosystems were facing also another threat, negative effect of the sea level rise. Degradation and destruction of mangrove forest might cause release of carbon stock below the ground of mangrove forests and that might further accelerate the greenhouse effect. Acceleration of integrated and international studies on mangrove ecosystems from various aspects were needed urgently. To support such studies, a global mangrove database was being established by International Society for Mangrove Ecosystems (ISME) with support from International Tropical Timber Organization (ITTO). It was concluded that since the greenhouse effect was an issue of importance not only for a few single countries but was a global issue affecting all countries, it was critically important to promote and enhance international cooperation on mangrove-related issues.