APPROACHES TO DEVELOPING SUSTAINABLE ORGANIC AGRICULTURE NETWORKS: A CASE STUDY OF SUKJAI MARKET SAMPRAN DISTRICT NAKHON PATHOM PROVINCE

Abstract

Abstract

          The purposes of this study were (1) to explain the situation of the sustainable organic agriculture network of Sukjai Market, Sampran District, Nakhon Pathom Province; (2) to identify problems of the network; and (3) to propose approaches for developing the sustainable organic agriculture network. This study was conducted by a qualitative research approach. Data were collected from 12 key informants, including Foundation personnel, network farmers, and government officials, by using semi-structured interviews and observation. The data obtained were analyzed by thematic analysis. Results showed that (1) the network situation involves decentralized management under the Sampran Model utilizing Participatory Guarantee Systems (PGS) as the core mechanism; (2) key problems included demand-supply imbalances, an aging farmer population leading to limitations in technology adoption and documentation, and delays in registration and certification processes; and (3) development approaches should focus on market-led production, involving the younger generation (Young Smart Farmers) to assist with technology and database management, developing cross-group auditing systems for transparency, and creating a real-time connected database system for sustainability.