Author: Wasana Laochai
AIT Library Call Number: AIT RSPR no.DS-23-01
Year: 2023
Academic Program: Development and Sustainability (DS)
Type: Research Studies Project Report (M.Sc.) – Asian Institute of Technology, 2023
Examination Committee: Thi Phuoc Lai Nguyen (Chairperson); Roger Levermore, Krishna R. Salin (Examination Committee Members)
Abstract: The study attempts to assess the sustainability of the agricultural cooperatives (ACs) in Thailand. The Sum Sung District Non-toxic Vegetable Grower Agricultural Cooperative Limited (SSAC) is selected based on the type of cooperative, location, goal, and activities. The objectives are to determine, describe, and understand the sustainability of agricultural cooperatives, discover social responsibility contributions, and investigate opportunities and best practices that positively affect sustainability. The samples are 214 respondents for the questionnaire survey and 32 respondents for the interview. The respondents are farmers and general members, employees, the board of director members, and government officials. The data collection is conducted in the Sum Sung district, Khon Kaen province. Data is analyzed by descriptive analysis, t test, least significant difference, and thematic analysis. A three-point scale index was constructed to evaluate respondents’ understanding of the sustainable development concept. A five-point scale index was applied to assess respondents’ agreement on the social responsibility of SSAC, which was divided into three dimensions: economy, society, and environment. SWOT analysis is applied to explore strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats to the sustainability of agricultural cooperatives. The results present that the respondents understood the sustainability concept. Respondents agreed that SSAC contributes to the three dimensions of sustainable development. SSAC’s foundation and vision are embedded with the sustainable development concept. SSAC has done well on quality certification for products and packhouse, representing community needs, and enhancing food safety and security. However, the agricultural cooperative lacks business strategies, youth involvement, limited environmental investment, and welfare. Economic slowdown, floods, and market competition may threaten the agricultural cooperative. SSAC’s opportunities include conducting sustainabilit
Scholarship Donor(s): Her Majesty the Queen’s Scholarships (Thailand)
Note: A research study submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the Degree of Master of Science in Development and Sustainability, School of Environment, Resources and Development
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