Research Article

From Maximization to Optimization: A Paradigm Shift in Rice Production in Thailand to Improve Overall Quality of Life of Stakeholders

Table 2

Summary of interviews conducted at the sites.

AspectSubaspectValue and description

ProvincesChiang Rai, Phayao, Sukhothai, Kamphaeng Phet, Nakhon Sawan, Chainat, and Pathumthani

Age range25–79

Cultivated area (ha)Owned385
Rented9.44

Irrigation systemsCanals, pumped groundwater

Number of seasons (year−1)2 or 3

YieldYield for cultivar (t ha−1)
 Hom Mali*3.13 to 5.00
 Hom Pathum>6.25
 Phitsanulok 25.00 to 7.50
 Samphao Thong6.25 to 7.50
 Suphan Buri 16.25
 RD 63.15 to 5.32
 RD 31, RD 415.63 to 7.50
 RD 475.63 to 8.75
Yield increase after the adoption
 Hom Mali*23% (4.06 to 5.00 t ha−1)
 Samphao Thong57% (4.38 to 6.88 t ha−1)
 Suphan Buri 133% (4.69 to 6.25 t ha−1)
 RD 3120% (6.25 to 7.50 t ha−1)
 RD 4710 to 20% (5.0 to 5.5~6.0 t ha−1)

Cost reductionPesticides, insecticides, herbicidesup to 80%
Fertilizerup to 70%
OthersLabor/time, water, seedlings, and seeds

Net profit (Baht ha−1 season−1)62,356 ± 30,588 ( )

Perceivable advantagesQuality of lifeImprovement of total life quality, health promotion, greater freedom, extra time, and less anxiety (especially regarding water constraints)
Financial aspectSaving time saves labor and reduces investment
Technological aspectEasy and comfortable work, yield increase, knowledge (trans-)formation, and improved rice quality
Social aspectEnhanced cooperation among the villagers

Hom Mali and the others in the subaspect column indicate rice cultivars.