Development and Upgrading of Organic Fertilizer Products Using Circular Economy Concept to Empower the Na Ngua Organic Agriculture Group, Phetchabun Province

Abstract

The organic fertilizer production of the Na Ngua Organic Agriculture Group in Phetchabun Province relies primarily on practical experience, resulting in limitations in quality and nutrients that have not yet met standard criteria. Therefore, this research aimed to develop and upgrade organic fertilizer products using the Circular Economy concept through a Mixed-Method Research and Development (R&D) approach. The research instruments included questionnaires and observation forms to extract traditional knowledge, laboratory analysis for chemical and heavy metal properties, and satisfaction evaluation forms. The results revealed that the farmers' original fertilizer formula contained a low total nitrogen level compared to the standard criteria. Consequently, this research improved the mixture by increasing the chicken manure proportion from 2 to 4 parts. A t-test comparison of the organic fertilizer quality before and after the improvement showed a statistically significant difference (p < 0.01); the improved organic fertilizer demonstrated an increased total nitrogen content of 1.54%, a Carbon-to-Nitrogen (C/N) ratio of 14.65:1, and heavy metal concentrations within standard limits. Regarding the satisfaction evaluation of the logo and packaging design, the clarity and recognizability aspect received the highest rating (= 4.80), with an overall satisfaction at the highest level (= 4.70). For the knowledge transfer to the farmers, the speaker's knowledge, ability, and experience received the highest satisfaction rating (= 4.90), with an overall satisfaction at the highest level (= 4.75). These findings suggest that the farmers can apply this knowledge to reduce costs and sustainably create value-added products.