Creating Added Value for Waste by Using the Concept of the Circular Economy in Doi Hang Sub-district, Mueang District, Chiang Rai Province

Abstract

               This research aimed to 1) study the behaviors and level of participation of the people in waste management; 2) investigate the problematic situations and patterns in waste management among the people; 3) propose guidelines for applying the circular economy concept to increase the added value of waste in Doi Hang Sub-district. The study used a mixed-method approach, combining quantitative and qualitative research. The research instruments employed include questionnaires, interviews, and focus groups. Questionnaires were distributed to 515 households involving in solid waste management. Interviews were conducted with 15 officials from the Doi Hang Sub-district Municipality, private sector representatives, and community leaders. Group discussions were held with 15 community leaders and leaders of various groups. The data were analyzed using content analysis and descriptive statistics. The findings revealed the following:

               Doi Hang Sub-district is a rural community with a small-scale economic system. The municipalities played a crucial role in providing knowledge, supporting equipment for waste management, and encouraging communities to manage their own household waste. However, the methods used for waste management were not hygienic. The behaviors and level of participation in solid waste management among community members were low, with average scores of (x  = 2.47, S.D. = 0.79) and ( x = 2.44, S.D. = 0.72), respectively.

               To address this, the community first selected organic waste for creating added value based on the circular economy concept. They processed organic waste into biogas energy using the gas balloon innovation in Doi Hang Nai, village No. 1, as a community model. Additionally, they organized a learning center for organic waste management.

               Results from the project implementation within the first six months were found in three aspects: economic, social, and environmental. For economic aspect: the community gained biogas energy for local use, reducing gas purchases by 960 baht per month; the liquid fertilizer was produced for agricultural use, decreasing fertilizer purchases by 400 baht per month. Regarding social aspect:  community members became more aware of the importance of garbage disposal and actively participated in the solid waste management; the amount of solid waste decreased from 370 kg per month to 226 kg per month; learning resources for waste management became available to the community; fostering a collective realization and shared benefits. In terms of environmental aspect: the community became cleaner, with reductions in odor, smoke, and dust pollution; food sources and breeding grounds for animals and insects were decreased; the overall community scenery improved.