The Participatory Process in Developing a Drinking Water Production System to Promote Peace at Wat Sarod, Bangkok

Abstract

This research article employed a qualitative study using Ariyasacca research model with a nine-step process. The study aimed to: 1) investigate and analyze the context, problems, causes, impacts, priority needs, and relevant theoretical concepts regarding the participatory process in developing a drinking water production system to promote community peace; 2) develop a participatory process for the development of a drinking water production system to enhance community peace; and 3) present the outcomes of the participatory process in developing the drinking water production system to promote community peace at Wat Sarod, Bangkok. Key informants included monks and novices at Wat Sarod, community committee members, local leaders, representatives of relevant agencies, and local residents, totaling 35 participants. Data were analyzed using descriptive methods.

The research findings revealed that: 1) the community faced a shortage of quality drinking water. Although tap water was available in sufficient quantity, it was unsuitable for consumption due to hardness and contamination. This forced residents to rely on purchased or donated water, which was inconsistent and increased household expenses, negatively affecting health and equitable access to clean water. The area’s strength lay in the strong relationship between the temple and the community, but limitations existed in terms of personnel, knowledge, and budget; 2) The development of the drinking water system integrated the Noble Eightfold Path with modern scientific knowledge, resulting in the WISDOM Model, which encompassed six components. They are: Water, Introduction, Service, Drink, Output, and Management. The community participated throughout the process, from problem analysis and system design to implementation and monitoring; and 3) Wat Sarod’s community developed a high-quality, standardized, and continuously monitored drinking water system. The focus was on a sense of shared ownership, strengthening unity and temple–community relationships, reducing household and temple water expenses, and improving both physical and mental well-being. The project also developed volunteer networks and local knowledge, enabling the community to manage the system independently. This model became a sustainable community water management model that could be replicated in other areas. A key innovation was the “Sixfold Participation” approach (co-seeing, co-working, co-communicating, co-caring, co-giving, co-being), which integrated Buddhist principles with an inclusive water management process. The WISDOM Model effectively enhanced drinking water quality, promoted peace, unity, and social capital in Wat Sarod community, and served as a self-monitored and self-managed water resource management model.