Developing Waste Disposal Innovations in Durian Orchards of Farmers in Chanthaburi Province

Abstract

This research aimed to (1) examine the current conditions of waste management in durian orchards, (2) develop waste disposal innovations, and (3) evaluate the effectiveness of waste disposal innovations among durian farmers in Chanthaburi Province, Thailand. The study employed a Research and Development (R&D) approach using a mixed methods research design. The population consisted of durian farmers in Chanthaburi Province. The samples were selected through purposive sampling and included 18 durian farmers, 10 key informants, and 8 participants in focus group discussions. Research instruments comprised questionnaires, in-depth interview guides, and focus group discussion protocols. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including percentages, means, and standard deviations, while qualitative data were analyzed through content analysis.

The findings revealed that: (1) waste management in durian orchards faced three major challenges, namely excessive amounts of durian waste, a lack of knowledge regarding proper waste management, and insufficient tools and equipment; (2) the developed innovation successfully transformed durian peels into organic fertilizer, with chemical properties meeting the standards of the Department of Agriculture; and (3) the evaluation results indicated that the organic fertilizer from durian peels improved soil quality, increased soil moisture, enhanced durian tree growth, and achieved a high level of farmer satisfaction. The knowledge derived from this research highlights a systematic waste management model consisting of upstream, midstream, and downstream processes. This model can serve as a practical guideline for developing sustainable agricultural waste management innovations that add economic value, promote community-based economic development, and support long-term environmental sustainability.