Management of Pre-harvest Sugarcane Burning

Abstract

The objectives of this study were to investigate guidelines and measures in solving issues of sugarcane burning. The data were collected through in-depth interviews and focus groups discussions with sugarcane farmers, representatives of the Sugarcane Planters Association, representatives of sugar mills, community leaders, and representatives of the Office of the Cane and Sugar Board in four model provinces selected as burn-free and fresh-cut sugarcane areas namely Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi, Chaiyaphum, and Loei. The data obtained were analyzed to identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats using SWOT Analysis and the TOWS Matrix to generate strategic options for sugarcane burning problems.  The results of the study suggests that to solve issues related to sugarcane burning, three approaches: a short-term approach, a medium-term approach, and a long-term approach, be applied in a timely manner.  The short-term approach establishes a campaign against burning sugarcane and encouraging growers to access low-interest financing sources. The medium-term approach is aimed to develop an institution of sugarcane growers by applying technology and innovation to cover the whole system of fresh sugarcane harvesting. Promoting the use of small agricultural machinery and adding value to sugarcane biomass. Finally, the long-term approach provides precise solutions of sugarcane burning problems, strictly enforcing laws and regulations, conducting climate change and natural disaster prevention research, and creating