Satun geopark faces January deadline to protect UNESCO status

Thailand has until January 31, 2027, to demonstrate improvements at Satun UNESCO Global Geopark after a yellow-card warning put its designation at risk. UNESCO identified shortcomings in management and coordination during an assessment held from July 15 to 19, 2025.

Department of Mineral Resources director-general Nipon Chamnongsirisak said on November 14 that the government and Satun officials were addressing the concerns. UNESCO had highlighted the absence of permanent management arrangements and inadequate cooperation among the organisations overseeing the geopark.

Nipon said Satun Governor Kanit Kongchuay was working alongside his department, the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, and local agencies. Planned measures include naming a new geopark director and reorganising its management committee so that agencies have more clearly defined duties.

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment set up a working group on November 5 to coordinate the improvements, offer technical assistance and seek funding. A progress report, accompanied by evidence of the changes, is due by the January deadline.

UNESCO assessors are expected in Satun in mid-2027, while a final decision is anticipated around January 2028. Passing the assessment would bring a green card and extend the designation for four years; failure could mean losing it.

The geopark gained UNESCO recognition on April 17, 2018. It spans Thung Wa, Manang, La-ngu and Mueang Satun districts, with boundaries encompassing Tarutao National Park and Mu Ko Phetra National Park. Nipon said the ministry also planned stronger long-term management and greater community participation in conservation.