RESEARCH THE PROPERTIES OF SALTWATER PLANTS FOR USE AS MATERIALS IN SUSTAINABLE DESIGN

Abstract

Research the properties of saltwater plants for use as materials in sustainable design. The
objective was to explore the diversity and potential of saltwater plants in Yisan Subdistrict,
Amphawa District, Samut Songkhram Province, and evaluate the feasibility of utilizing them
as environmentally conscious design materials. The study found that:
Saltwater plants found in Yisan Subdistrict, Amphawa District, Samut Songkhram
Province are Rhizophora apiculata, Rhizophora mucronata, Avicennia marina, Sonneratia alba,
Sonneratia ovata, Xylocarpus moluccensis, Acanthus ilicifolius, Nypa Palm, Seablite, and Sea
Purslane. Each type has been used for both consumer and industrial purposes, such as making
charcoal and supporting pillars. Consumption includes cooking sweet and savory food,
including all saltwater plants that have medicinal properties and herbs that can be used to treat
various diseases as well.
A plant suitable for design application is Rhizophora because it is grown in concession
areas. Utilization of charcoal by people in the community. Rhizophora is characterized by a
straight stem that is hardwood, orange in color. When dried, there will be a unique crack in the
wood. It is resistant to insects, so it has suitable properties for application in furniture design,
home decoration, and souvenirs. Nypa palm is also suitable, as it is a plant that has been cut
down to reduce coastal ground erosion caused by the weight of the nypa palm. Due to their
fibrous nature, the leaves are tough when dried, making them suitable for both basketry and
woven designs.
According to the research results, this is the use of indigenous plants to develop materials
that are applied in various aspects of design, which is considered to be the use of natural
resource capital combined with creativity as a way to create value to promote the community
economy. This will have a positive effect on creating additional benefits for saltwater plants.
It also results in replanting, conservation, and resource circulation.