THE CAPACITY DEVELOPMENT OF YOUNG SMART FARMERS IN DEVELOPING A CIRCULAR ECONOMY AND LINKING THE BAMBOO SYSTEM IN LAMPANG PROVINCE

Abstract

This research aimed to; 1) develop a Network Value Chain model linking bamboo-growing farmer groups with users and entrepreneurs and 2) enhance the platform-driven capacity of Young Smart Farmer groups in promoting a circular economy within the bamboo industry in Lampang Province. The study employed a qualitative research approach involving key informants from Young Smart Farmer groups, entrepreneurs, relevant government officials, educational institutions, and civil society organizations. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions and were analyzed using content analysis based on the research objectives and conceptual framework.
The findings revealed that (1) upgrading the bamboo industry in Lampang Province required a Network Value Chain model to integrate and address fragmented production systems across four key dimensions: upstream raw material standardization; midstream development of networked community enterprises through task distribution and technology adoption to address labor constraints; downstream design innovation to enhance product value and access business-to-business (B2B) markets; and support mechanisms from government and academic sectors. This integrated approach strengthened the linkage of natural, social, and innovation capital and contributed to a sustainable, value-added local economic ecosystem. (2) Enhancing the platform of Young Smart Farmer groups through the development of a database system based on backward tracing from end products along the supply chain was identified as a key mechanism for transforming the bamboo industry in Lampang Province into a circular economy platform. The transformation integrated four dimensions: data-driven matching of residual resources; upstream restoration through material recirculation into the soil; midstream value-added processing of residual materials through shared machinery centers; and downstream market integration through eco-friendly products targeting B2B markets. This integrated approach transformed waste-related challenges into high-value innovations and supported a sustainable local circular economy.