The Potential of Indigenous People’s Forest: Ecological Benefits and Plants Diversity in Bru People’s Spiritual Forest, Northeastern Thailand

Abstract

Aims: To study the ecological benefits and biodiversity of plants in the Bru’s spiritual forest and the relationship between the Bru’s wisdoms and their spiritual forest. Study Design: This research applied the use of forest ecology and a qualitative research. Place and Duration of Study: Sakon Nakhon Province, the upper Northeastern Thailand, between June 2011and June 2012. Methodology: We surveyed plants diversity in 3 spiritual forests of Bru people’s villages and collected primary data about relationship between Bru people and spiritual forest from the site by in-depth interviewing, group discussions with key informants. Result: The Bru People are a group of indigenous people near the Lower Mekong River and have a culture that is closely related and tied to the spiritual dimension. Their philosophy and fundamental world views are holistic. There are 11 Spiritual Forest in Bru communities of Sakhon Nakhon Province. These forests once serves as: an important source of biodiversity and native plants, a source of food and herb to support the Bru people’s economy and ecology, a spiritual centre of communities, and a foundation to create strength to maintain their idealism and ecological heritage in the Lower Mekhong basin. Conclusion: Spiritual forests of Bru people have served as important reservoirs of biodiversity, preserving native species of plants, protection air pollution and supporting the ground economy and culture of Bru people.