Chiang rai: The Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI) and the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives (MOAC) have partnered with the private sector to launch the "Northern Region Creates, Stop Burning, and Make Money" project in Chiang Rai. This initiative aims to convert agricultural waste into income, enhancing the grassroots economy by 3 billion baht and developing sustainable solutions to combat PM2.5 pollution.
According to Thai News Agency, the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI), in collaboration with the National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT), the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, and the private sector, organized the "Northern Region: Transform, Stop Burning, and Boost Income @ Chiang Rai" event at Ban Lao Fu, Pa Tung Subdistrict, Mae Chan District, Chiang Rai Province. The project seeks to transform agricultural waste into energy and environmentally friendly products, addressing the PM 2.5 smog crisis and the energy crisis, while creating practical income opportunities for farmers.
Professor Dr. Yotsanun Wongsawat, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, along with Ms. Piyarat Tiyapairat, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, Mr. Chucheep Pongchai, Governor of Chiang Rai, and other relevant agencies, signed an agreement to enhance cooperation between ministries and the private sector.
The 'PMUC Zero Burn to Earn' project has reached an agreement to purchase agricultural waste directly from farmers, with private companies investing over 20 million baht. The private sector plans to extend this initiative over the next five years, promoting research innovations and increasing economic value through eco-friendly products and clean energy, potentially generating over 3 billion baht for the country. Additionally, MHESI and the National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA) have provided innovations for sustainable agriculture, including solar panels and biodiesel, to aid farmers in Chiang Rai province. They have also introduced a web application for managing agricultural waste.
Professor Dr. Yotsanun highlighted that solving the chronic burning issue in northern Thailand requires an economic management approach. By demonstrating to farmers that repurposing agricultural materials can yield higher income, the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI), through the National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT), is facilitating connections between farmers and the private sector. This strategy, previously successful in Chiang Mai, has been adapted for Chiang Rai. Citizens and farmers can register for the 'Stop Burning, Burn the Flag' project to receive tools, innovations, and income-generating opportunities, aiming for the ultimate goal of 'Stop Burning, Earn Money, Improve Air Quality.'
Associate Professor Dr. Kanda Boonsotharsathit noted that the NRCT is engaging with the private sector to purchase agricultural waste from farmers for processing. Initial collaborations worth over 30 million baht have been established, targeting Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai, and Lamphun provinces. If expanded to other companies and regions, this model could significantly increase the economic value of agricultural waste and contribute to a reduction in PM2.5 levels across Thailand.
Prof. Dr. Yosanan emphasized that the model is designed for the common good and is freely available to any interested community. Support teams and innovative solutions will be provided to ensure effective implementation before the end of the year, addressing the upcoming dust season.