10 September 2025, Suphan Buri, Thailand — A hands-on composting initiative led by the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) brought together farmers, government agencies, and students from Suphan Buri province. As part of the “Thai Rice: Strengthening Climate-Smart Rice Farming” project, funded by the Green Climate Fund, the event was hosted at the Derm Bang Farmer Group (DBG) Learning Center. It showcased how participatory approaches can drive sustainable farming practices in Thailand.

The main event saw broad participation from across the agricultural sector. Alongside DBG farmers, officials from the Rice Department, the Rice Science Institute, Suphan Buri Land Development Station, the District Agriculture Office, and the Doem Bang Subdistrict Administrative Organization joined forces. The Administrative Organization also supported the effort by supplying water, while students from the Police Cadet Academy participated as part of their practical learning curriculum.

Under heavy rainfall that left the soil slippery and raw materials waterlogged, the group formed compost windrows using rice straw with cow dung, microorganisms, and other organic materials. IRRI demonstrated scientific monitoring techniques such as temperature checks, pH measurements, and moisture assessments. The interactive session allowed farmers to discuss how to adapt these practices to their own resources, labor conditions, and land.

Building on the initiative, the DBG farmers decided to develop the compost into a product for sale, diversifying their income beyond rice grain production and under guidance by IRRI. To engage the wider community and include the next generation, a logo design contest for the new product was held for local students, inviting participants from the 6th grade to showcase their creativity and support local agriculture.

By blending traditional farming practices with scientific monitoring and capacity-building, the initiative aims to improve soil health, reduce waste, and promote sustainable rice production in Thailand. With local engagement and technical support from IRRI, the Suphan Buri farmers are now better positioned to lead by example, turning agricultural residues into valuable resources that will benefit both their communities and the environment.

#SustainableAgriculture #ClimateSmartAgriculture #SustainableFarming