The Buddharaksa Community Forest Project: Five Buddhist Temples and the Integration of Moral Communities

The Buddharaksa Community Forest Project represents an integrated initiative that combines natural resource conservation, moral community development and multi-sectoral collaboration. The project consists of six key components: (1) the Buddharaksa Community Forest, covering approximately 2,189 rai, currently in the process of establishment under the Community Forest Act B.E. 2562; (2) the Green Space Conservation and Preservation Project in Treasury Land, with an area of about 400 rai; (3) firebreak and patrol roads developed under Section 19 of the National Reserved Forests Act to prevent wildfires and provide access to sacred sites; (4) the Buddharaksa Moral Community Project, driven by the “Baworn” framework (home–temple–school/officials), which also supports people with disabilities, education and quality of life; (5) the establishment of four temples in reserved forest areas approved by the Cabinet during 2020–2021; and (6) the establishment of one temple in Treasury land. The project is guided by advisory councils, including ecclesiastical leaders, governmental authorities, and local administrative bodies, while relying on community and civil society participation. Beyond its local scope, the Buddharaksa Community Forest Project serves as a model of collaborative development, sustainable integration and the balance between community, religion and state. It can be recognized as a national example of moral community development and integrated forest management.