KHLONG KIEW MODEL: AN INNOVATIVE BUDDHIST-INTEGRATED APPROACH TO WASTE MANAGEMENT IN THE EEC INDUSTRIAL AREA, CHONBURI PROVINCE

Abstract

This research aimed to; 1) investigate the problems, causes, impacts, and needs related to waste management in the Klong Kiew subdistrict industrial area; 2) analyze approaches for applying the Threefold Training (Tri-Sikkha) principles to participatory waste management in a multicultural setting; and 3) develop and present the “Klong Kiew Model” innovation for Buddhist-integrated waste management in EEC industrial areas. In the context of the EEC industrial area, the study was qualitative and collected data from stakeholders through in-depth interviews and focus group meetings. Key informants comprised 55 individuals: 15 community leaders, 12 industrial entrepreneurs, 20 migrant workers, and 8 government officials. Data were analyzed using content analysis. The findings, corresponding to the study objectives, showed that (1) waste problems in the area were complex due to a mixture of industrial and community waste, which had significant environmental and community health impacts; (2) applying the Tri-Sikkha principles enhanced appropriate attitudes and behaviors toward waste management, and participation by culturally diverse communities improved the effectiveness of the waste management system; and (3) the Klong Kiew Model for Integrated Waste Management (KKM) established an innovative system that integrated Tri-Sikkha principles, local wisdom, and technology, and was suitable for and scalable to other industrial areas.