MSU Researchers and Students Develop Waste-to-Fertilizer Program to Boost Local Economy
Researchers and students from the Faculty of Environment and Resource Studies, and the Faculty of Science at Mahasarakham University are actively operating academic service projects to create innovation for sustainable development. The target place is the Factory of Organic Fertilizer Production located in Moo 3, Nongko sub-district, Borabue district, Maha Sarakham province. Challenging problems faced by this community include municipal waste, greenhouse gases, and PM2.5. These challenges need to be addressed and solutions must be developed to promote livelihoods through income-generating opportunities, energy conservation, and the transformation of waste into fertilizers. This holistic approach aims to enhance the quality of sustainable living and further develop a value chain that benefits organic vegetable cultivation communities.
There are various dimensions to the outcomes and benefits of this project for the local community. These include the annual production of up to 8,000 kilograms of fertilizer, incorporation of the Internet of Things (IoT) system, and the utilization of hand lifts to increase efficiency. This production has resulted in an approximately 18-fold increase in income compared to the project’s first year (2022), while also reducing expenses on chemical fertilizers.
The organic fertilizers produced are sold to enterprises engaged in organic vegetable cultivation, thereby enhancing the value chain. Importantly, this initiative extends beyond the immediate community to neighboring areas, serving as a learning hub for the general public and other enterprises seeking to study and expand. Moreover, agricultural waste burning has diminished, greenhouse gas emissions are reduced, chemical usage is minimized, and it fosters sustainable improvements in the quality of life for rural communities.
Source: Division of Research and Academic Services, MSU
Thai article: นักวิจัย มมส ต่อยอด “เด็กปั้นปุ๋ย” เพิ่มมูลค่าจากขยะวัสดุเหลือทิ้ง สู่การสร้างอาชีพเพิ่มรายได้ให้ชุมชน
