GUIDELINES FOR DEVELOPING LOW-CARBON TOURISM ACTIVITIES OF BAN PHUNAMRON COMMUNITY IN DANCHANG DISTRICT, SUPHANBURI PROVINCE

Abstract

            This research aimed to 1) investigate community-based tourism activities through participatory processes in Ban Phu Nam Ron, Dan Chang District, Suphan Buri Province; 2) assess the carbon footprint of community tourism activities; 3) propose guidelines for low-carbon tourism development; and 4) compare the carbon footprint before and after the implementation of these guidelines. A participatory action research (PAR) approach was employed. Data were collected using activity log sheets, in-depth interviews, and focus group discussions. The participants consisted of 30 key stakeholders, including members of the community tourism committee, community leaders, local tourism entrepreneurs, and relevant government officials, selected through purposive sampling. Quantitative data were analyzed using carbon footprint calculation methods, while qualitative data were analyzed through content analysis.

            The findings revealed that the community tourism route comprised four major attractions: Wat Phu Nam Ron, the Cultural Hall of Thai–Khrang Descendants, the Local Wisdom Learning Center under the Royal Initiative Project, and the Huai Khaowong Reservoir–Ban Phu Nam Ron–Hin Lad Community Forest. The tourism model followed a one-day trip format, typically involving families of 3–5 individuals. The average carbon footprint generated per person per trip was 23.25 kg CO₂-equivalent, with waste identified as the largest contributing factor. Recommended carbon reduction strategies included: 1) implementing waste segregation and minimizing unnecessary electricity use at tourism sites, 2) promoting the use of locally sourced ingredients and simplifying food menus, and  3) introducing bicycle services in selected areas. If adopted, these strategies were projected to reduce carbon emissions by approximately 11.57%.