SATUN UNESCO GLOBAL GEOPARK AND COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION IN LOCAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Abstract

    This study focused in community participation in local economic development in Satun UNESCO global geopark area. The main objective of the research was to study factors that promote the development of community enterprises in the Satun UNESCO global geopark towards a sustainable upgrading of the grassroots economy. This would generate understanding, presentation of information and promoting integration between stakeholders, especially local communities and the geopark. Data were collected by in-depth interviews, the researcher identified specific target informants consist of 56 people, from each community enterprise, which were determined by using a semi-structured interview with a consistency index between questions and objectives for the entire edition of 0.86. A researcher analyzed the obtained data in an inductive way. Furthermore, a questionnaire’s questions with a consistency index greater than 0.50 for all questions were collected by having the target group choose to respond and to express opinions. The researcher used analysis, namely 0.05 mean and standard deviation in data analysis. This study found that 1) missions, goals and further development of Satun UNESCO Global geopark should be in the development strategy of Satun Province; 2) The research data showned that most community enterprises were highly managed; and 3) Integrated collaborative activities were (1) maintaining significant geological values and landscapes, (2) having sound management structures and local participation, (3) providing education and information to relevant stakeholders and participants, and 4) promoting geological tourism (Ex., cave, stalactite, fossil). These were for total continuously driven economic, social and development activities in the area.