Conflict Management: A Case Study of Waste-to-Energy Power Plant Developmentin Pathumthani Province

Abstract

The construction of a waste-to-energy power plant in Pathumthani Province has elicited significant conflicts and resistance from the affected populace. This study aimed to explore the conflict situations concerning the project and apply a conflict management method to resolve the conflict. It was found that while the project is anticipated to be beneficial in addressing escalating waste problems, it was met with intense opposition from local communities. This opposition is primarily attributedto insufficient involvement or understanding provided by the project’s owner andrelevant authorities. The lack of community engagement is a critical factor thatsignificantly impacts confidence in the project, as individuals feel inadequately heard or informed by project officials. Consequently, local residents harbored uncertainties regarding the project’s impacts, leading to robust resistance. This study implemented the conflict resolution method, which involved the collaboration of stakeholders by identifying and analyzing the causes of the conflict and stakeholders and conducting three stakeholder meetings. The method was quite effective, as all stakeholders, especially the opposition groups, had opportunities to express and exchangetheir opinions, concerns, and information concerning the power plant project.Moreover, they worked together to seek solutions to the waste problems inthe province that went beyond the issue of constructing the project and received acceptance from all groups. After the participation process, the relationship amongthe different groups noticeably improved.