The Promotion of the Processing of Herbal Products Using Solar Sell Drying Facilities Project

Challenges and Objectives

This project was focused on Baan na Isan village located in the Tha Kradan sub-district, Sanam Chai Khet district, Chachoengsao province in the eastern part of Thailand. The community enterprise from the project location faces notable challenges in its production of dried herbs, primarily relying on a solar drying facility that spans 8 meters by 12.4 meters, encompassing 60 trays. This facility is crucial for maintaining the quality, cleanliness, and safety of raw materials. However, this facility is rented from another community enterprise at a cost of 3,000 baht per year. This financial commitment poses a considerable obstacle to the enterprise, impacting its ability to meet the rising demand from entrepreneurs effectively. The necessity for such a solar drying facility of specific dimensions underscores the constraints faced by the community enterprise. Moreover, while the current setup allows the fulfillment of approximately 50% of the demand, it falls short of meeting the increasing needs of the market. In light of these challenges, it becomes evident that securing sustainable access to a solar drying facility is vital for the enterprise's success and for supporting local farmers in the region, potentially boosting their income by more than 30% annually.

This initiative project aims to promote the comprehensive development of herbal crop agriculture in the area by utilizing high-quality raw materials for the production of herbal medicine and products. It encompasses all stages of the value chain, including cultivation and quality improvement of plant varieties, development of production centers, analysis of herbal medicine, production of herbal products, and technology transfer to farmers and entrepreneurs.

Collaboration Partners and Roles

Revitalisation Activities

The promotion of the processing of herbal products using solar sell drying facilities project was short-term project, was implemented from 2021 to 2022. It introduced new solutions to old problems by integrating solar drying technology with herbal processing, creating a sustainable and cost-effective method. The project aimed to alleviate poverty by cultivating and processing herbal plants in a solar drying facility, providing community members with income opportunities. The group secured additional orders for 3 tons of dried turmeric, increasing annual income by 750,000 Baht. New herbal products, developed from the solar drying facility, enhanced market competitiveness, reducing drying facility expenses by approximately 700 Baht (700 kg). Modern techniques improved processing, enhancing product quality. Marketing efforts, including participation in local fairs and collaborations, attracted customers and expanded economic opportunities. The community enterprise forged a forward purchase agreement with Apai Phubet Company. Regarding the environmental aspects, the project promoted sustainable practices, implementing organic farming, natural fertilizers, and responsible harvesting for herbal plants. Emphasis on conserving indigenous herbal plants and biodiversity contributed to overall environmental sustainability. Farmers were encouraged to diversify crops with higher-value herbal plants, enhancing both the environment and community economic benefits.

On the social aspect, active community participation in monitoring the solar drying facility and herbal cultivation fostered a sense of ownership and collective responsibility. Conflict resolution through dialogues maintained harmonious relationships. The project revitalized the village by creating sustainable economic opportunities and improving living conditions, encouraging the return of old villagers and attracting new residents. Youth engagement in herbal processing, entrepreneurship, and marketing activities empowered the younger generation. External expert involvement enhanced community knowledge and skills. Preservation and promotion of traditional cultural activities strengthened cultural identity, fostering pride and attracting cultural tourism.

Revitalisation Outcome

The project has significant benefits on community well-being – a rise in income from herbal product sales, the development and sale of new products, the local market's growth, and the project's impact on individuals and households. The project fostered a sense of community ownership and empowerment, fostering active participation in revitalization efforts. It enhanced social cohesion, strengthened community relationships, and improved communication among stakeholders. Preservation and promotion of traditional cultural activities enriched the community's cultural identity. Through sustainable resource practices, the project contributed to biodiversity conservation. Encouraging the cultivation of higher-value crops not only bolstered economic conditions but also reduced reliance on environmentally harmful practices. Economically, income-generating opportunities arose from cultivating and processing herbal plants, resulting in increased household income, poverty alleviation, and economic empowerment. The project expanded the local market for herbal products, attracting external buyers and tourists interested in traditional herbal practices. These outcomes collectively reflect the project's multifaceted impact on both the community's economic prosperity and its social and environmental fabric.