Pathum thani: Thai farmers are leading a groundbreaking initiative towards sustainable agriculture by adopting low-carbon rice farming practices, aiming to mitigate global warming and enhance the value of Thai rice on the international stage. The Department of Rice has introduced the "Khlong 13 Community Rice Center" model as a prototype for this environmentally friendly approach.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Anont Nonthasri, Director-General of the Department of Rice, recently visited the Khlong 13 Community Rice Center, located in Lam Luk Ka District, Pathum Thani Province. This center, managed by the "Khao Ruam Jai Rice Farmers Group," is the first in the central region to receive the "Carbon Label" certification from the Thailand Greenhouse Gas Management Organization (TGO). This certification highlights their commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions through innovative rice farming techniques.
Mr. Anont emphasized the importance of sustainable rice production in the context of climate change and international trade. The Department of Rice, under the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, has been actively promoting environmentally friendly rice production processes across the nation. This involves imparting knowledge, technology, and effective paddy field management practices, such as alternating wetting and drying of rice paddies and efficient fertilizer use, to the 6,853 registered community rice centers nationwide. These centers are pivotal in advancing low-carbon rice cultivation, addressing the climate crisis, and boosting the global competitiveness of Thai farmers.
The Khlong 13 Community Rice Center exemplifies the transformation from traditional to low-carbon farming practices. By employing techniques like alternating wetting and drying and responsible straw management, the center not only reduces its carbon footprint but also produces high-quality rice that appeals to international markets. The carbon label certification assures consumers of the center's commitment to environmentally conscious production, enhancing the reputation of Thai rice globally.
The Director-General outlined plans to further support Thai farmers in adopting sustainable practices. This includes creating a "Smart Farmer Low Carbon" manual, establishing a digital system for monitoring greenhouse gas emissions, and developing a "Green Farmer Registry" for efficient data management. Marketing initiatives are also underway, such as the introduction of a "DeCarbon Rice" brand to highlight carbon reduction efforts to consumers, along with facilitating business opportunities for farmers. Financial assistance, including low-interest loans and a farmer assistance fund, will support the transition to low-carbon farming. The initiative also encompasses setting up local learning centers and promoting supplementary income through carbon credits.
Mr. Mungmat Wangka, Director of the Pathum Thani Rice Research Center, reported that the center has been actively encouraging the "Rice Farmers United" network to adopt low-carbon practices. The network has successfully obtained carbon labels for various rice products, marking a significant achievement as the first farmer group in the central region to do so. Currently, 77 farmers across three community rice centers, including the Khlong 13 Community Rice Center, are involved, collectively managing 1,975 rai of farmland.
This pioneering effort not only positions Thailand as a leader in low-carbon rice exports but also supports the country's net-zero greenhouse gas emission target. The initiative demonstrates the adaptability of Thai farmers to global environmental challenges and elevates the value of Thai agricultural products on the world stage.