MBK collaborates with Pathum Thani Province and allied partners to drive a tree-planting project "Mangrove and Langpu Trees" to restore ecosystems and increase green space along the Chao Phraya River
On 21 April 2026, reporters covered an event at Riverdale Marina Pier (a comprehensive center and service provider for boats and water activities) in Bangkadi Subdistrict, Mueang District, Pathum Thani Province. Mr. Aekwit Meepian, Governor of Pathum Thani, Mr. Thawatchai Uangamponwilai, Mayor of Bangkadi Municipality, Mr. Pongsak Saptsen, Chief Executive Officer 1 of the Board of Directors of MBK Public Company Limited, Ms. Puttachad Srinisakorn, Chief Marketing Officer of MBK Public Company Limited, and Mr. Pramot Kettong, Chief Executive Officer of Design and Project Operations of Green Element Company Limited, an MBK subsidiary, jointly organized the MBK Green Community project. This initiative aims to create a better environment for a sustainable society by planting mangrove and langpu trees along the Chao Phraya River to restore ecosystems, expand green spaces, prevent coastal erosion caused by waves and storms, and restore natural balance. This effort is a collaboration between government agencies and private sector partners.
During the activity, Mr. Aekwit Meepian, Governor of Pathum Thani, and Mr. Thawatchai Uangamponwilai, Mayor of Bangkadi Municipality, boarded boats to plant over 70 mangrove and langpu trees along more than 70 meters of the Chao Phraya riverside. This natural barrier aims to restore the riverside ecosystem and protect the soil. The root systems of these two tree species are especially effective at firmly anchoring the soil, reducing erosion from waves and storms. They also serve as crucial nurseries for juvenile aquatic animals such as shrimp, shellfish, crabs, and fish, supporting biodiversity. Additionally, these trees help absorb toxins, filter debris and pollutants, improving the cleanliness of water flowing into the river. This planting also demonstrates that mangrove and langpu trees can thrive along the Chao Phraya riverside.
Furthermore, this initiative symbolizes strong cooperation between government agencies and private sector partners in Pathum Thani Province, working together to create a better environment for a sustainable society for future generations.
Governor Aekwit Meepian stated that planting mangrove and langpu trees along the Chao Phraya riverside is a key approach to strengthening the stability of riverbank areas. The root systems of these plants help anchor the soil, reduce the impact of water currents, and effectively prevent erosion along the banks.
He added that this also reduces the risk of long-term subsidence, a problem affecting communities and infrastructure in various areas. Relevant agencies are planning to integrate this concept systematically into area management, focusing on planting and restoring native plants suited to the Chao Phraya watershed environment. They also aim to promote community participation in maintenance to ensure sustainability in both ecosystems and residents’ quality of life in the region.
Mr. Thawatchai Uangamponwilai, Mayor of Bangkadi Municipality, noted that langpu trees also have potential for development as an ecotourism attraction because they provide habitat for fireflies. With proper care and growth promotion, this could become a firefly-watching tourism route along the Chao Phraya River in the future, creating income for communities, supporting the local economy, and raising awareness about natural resource conservation.
Additionally, studies are underway on appropriate tourism management to avoid negative impacts on firefly ecosystems and the surrounding environment, balancing conservation with sustainable use. This will help develop the Chao Phraya riverside area into a model for natural resource management and ecotourism in the long term.
Mr. Pongsak Saptsen, Chief Executive Officer 1 of the Board of Directors of MBK Public Company Limited, emphasized the importance of this project, saying that the MBK Green Community initiative focuses on three main objectives this year. First, to instill awareness and campaign among MBK employees about the importance of genuinely caring for nature. Second, to align with ESG policies by advancing sustainable environmental efforts, reinforcing MBK’s commitment to eco-friendly business practices and aiming for net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
He added that increasing green spaces to enhance the Riverdale Marina’s landscape aims to establish it as a green landmark offering comprehensive water activities along the Chao Phraya River. Creating a healthy ecosystem not only helps restore nature but also promotes MBK’s brand image and supports all MBK business groups to grow alongside social and environmental sustainability.