Phetchaburi: The government has unveiled a successful initiative by the Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, which has turned underwater seaweed into fibers for weaving "Ban Cha-an Mackerel Pattern Fabric" in Phetchaburi Province. This endeavor aims to add value to local resources and generate new income for fishermen and coastal communities, aligning with the BCG (Bio-Circular-Green) economic model.
According to Thai News Agency, Captain Patthadarasmi Thongsalooykorn, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, emphasized the government's commitment to creating added value from local resources and enhancing the grassroots economy. She commended the Department of Fisheries for its innovative approach in transforming seaweed, traditionally seen as a nuisance in aquaculture areas, into fibers for weaving, resulting in the distinctive "Ban Cha-an Mackerel Pattern Fabric," emblematic of the fishing community in Phetchaburi province.
Captain Patthadarasmi explained that the coastal area of Ban Cha-an in Ban Laem District, Phetchaburi Province, often grapples with excessive seaweed growth, which impacts fishermen's livelihoods. To address this, the Department of Fisheries has promoted the use of this seaweed through research and development into textile fibers. This knowledge is then shared with the community, enabling them to create unique, high-value products.
The Ban Cha-an mackerel patterned fabric draws inspiration from the "mackerel," a significant economic aquatic species and symbol of Phetchaburi province, reflected in the patterns on the fabric. This initiative showcases the lifestyle and wisdom of the coastal fishing community and has been developed into various products, including clothing, accessories, and souvenirs, providing additional income for fishing farmers and community enterprises in the region.
This achievement supports the government's policy of promoting the bioeconomy, circular economy, and green economy (BCG Economy), which focuses on efficient resource utilization, adding value to agricultural and fishery products, and creating economic opportunities for local communities while sustainably conserving natural resources and the environment.
Captain Patthadarasmi further noted that the mackerel-patterned fabric from Ban Cha-an demonstrates the potential of utilizing research and innovation to enhance local resources, add value to the Thai fisheries sector, and improve community income and quality of life. The government is prepared to support the development of products from fisheries resources and local wisdom to create new economic opportunities for farmers and communities across the nation.