Linking ethical values and pro-environmental conservation of artisanal fishers in the inner gulf of Thailand

Abstract

Understanding how artisanal fishers perceive and value coastal resources is essential for designing effective and enduring coastal conservation strategies. This study examines the relationship between value dimensions and conservation practices among artisanal fishers in the Inner Gulf of Thailand. Data from 110 fishers were analyzed using principal component analysis (PCA) to identify underlying value dimensions and conservation patterns, followed by correlation analysis to assess their associations. The analysis identifies three value dimensions: Natural Legacy Value (NLV), Non-Economic Value (NEV), and Economic Value (EV), along with two conservation patterns representing tangible and intangible practices. NLV and NEV reflect related ethical orientations toward coastal resources; however, NLV is primarily associated with intergenerational responsibility and shows limited linkage to active conservation behavior. In contrast, NEV reflects present-oriented relational benefits, indicating acceptance of uncertain or delayed outcomes from conservation efforts. EV demonstrates a positive relationship with both tangible and intangible conservation practices, suggesting that economic considerations can reinforce long-term conservation engagement alongside livelihood needs. Gender-disaggregated results indicate that female fishers place greater emphasis on EV than male fishers. These findings highlight the importance of incorporating both ethical and economic considerations, as well as gender-sensitive perspectives, into coastal conservation planning. Conservation strategies that combine monetary and in-kind incentives, enhance the resilience of fishing gear and erosion-mitigation measures, and support community-based conservation initiatives may strengthen long-term participation and improve conservation outcomes in artisanal fisheries.