2025 年 13 巻 2 号 p. 90-110
This research aimed to conserve and develop suburban agricultural areas in Roi Et Province to support urban development in line with a green economy policy. The study examined the physical, economic, and social conditions of these areas, as well as land-use changes. Using Geographic Information System (GIS) analysis, factors influencing the persistence and decline of agricultural land were assessed, alongside an evaluation of production ecosystems in suburban farming areas. Furthermore, a SWOT analysis was employed to identify suitable areas for agricultural conservation through urban planning measures and in-depth interviews with key informants. The findings revealed that Dong Lan Subdistrict and Niwet Subdistrict are suitable for conserving food security in the suburban agricultural areas of Roi Et Province. However, these agricultural lands are increasingly being sold and converted into housing developments or other uses. To address this challenge, collaboration among stakeholders is essential for implementing effective conservation measures. Efforts should prioritize stable and sustainable farmer incomes, ensuring long-term agricultural viability. Modern agricultural technologies and innovative practices are key to preventing suburban agricultural land loss. These strategies enhance agricultural productivity and align with the broader vision of sustainable green economic cities.
At present, many regions of Thailand, especially in the Northeast, are undergoing substantial economic growth. This development has resulted in higher population densities, driving the rapid expansion of commercial, residential, industrial, and service areas. Suburban zones, with their open spaces and lower land prices compared to urban centers, have also seen significant growth as they are increasingly developed into residential areas (Piyachotisakulchai, 2014). These changes have brought noticeable shifts in land use, particularly in agriculture, which continues to play a critical role in food production for urban populations but is likely to face ongoing transformation (Ruangsanam, 2007). In both rural and urban areas, land use often overlaps, blending agriculture, housing, commerce, and industry.
In recent years, rapid urban population growth has driven the expansion of urban settlements into nearby rural areas. This urban expansion has greatly affected land use in areas on the outskirts of cities, where farmland is increasingly converted for urban development. Rising land prices have led many farmers to sell their land to developers, often motivated by the prospect of immediate financial gain (Rambo, 2017). In Roi Et province, which comprises 46% of the Thung Kula Rong Hai region and spans 2,107,690 rai, agriculture continues to be the primary economic activity. The province has been recognized as a Geographical Indication (GI) area due to its sandy soil, adequate water resources, and optimal sunlight conditions. Approximately 71.38% of the land is dedicated to agriculture, supporting 298,307 agricultural households that primarily cultivate rice, alongside crops such as sugarcane, cassava, and rubber. However, the region faces numerous challenges, including the emergence of plant diseases, extreme weather events such as droughts and floods, global economic fluctuations, declining agricultural product prices, and rising costs of labor and production. The high cost of agricultural machinery further exacerbates these issues. Additionally, the labor force is shrinking due to an aging population, while ongoing urban expansion continues to reduce the availability of agricultural land (Regional Office of Agricultural Economics, 2023).
Consequently, environmental problems such as polluted water and garbage have arisen, particularly in residential and housing development areas (Pudphad, 1996). Agricultural land is steadily decreasing despite city planning regulations, as these areas cannot withstand the pressures of development. These problems have long-term effects, resulting in a loss of food security for urban populations due to the limited availability of green spaces in densely populated areas (Preechachon, 2004). While many agencies are implementing measures to create more green spaces, there is still insufficient land for agricultural production to meet urban needs (Preechachon, 2004). Suburban areas have the potential to support the production of food for urban residents. The demand for agricultural products from urban populations is increasing daily, requiring transportation from rural areas on the outskirts of the city, which increases production costs (Ruangsanam, 2007). As a result, environmental issues such as water pollution and waste have emerged, particularly in areas of residential and housing development (Pudphad, 1996). Despite city planning regulations, agricultural land is steadily decreasing, as these areas are unable to cope with the pressures of development. These challenges have long-term consequences, particularly the loss of food security for urban populations, due to the decreasing availability of green spaces in densely populated areas (Preechachon, 2004). While various agencies are working to increase green spaces, there remains insufficient land for agricultural production to meet the growing demands of urban centers (Preechachon, 2004). However, suburban areas hold potential for supporting food production for urban residents. As the demand for agricultural products in cities continues to rise, transportation from rural outskirts becomes more essential, driving up production costs (Ruangsanam, 2007).
The “Sustainable Development Goals” (SDGs) consist of 17 goals that address various development agendas across countries, aiming to achieve sustainable development by 2050 (United Nations, 2019). Promoting agricultural land in suburban areas can contribute to the achievement of the second SDG, which focuses on “zero hunger” by ensuring food security, promoting sustainable agriculture, and supporting the development of human settlements. Urban agriculture has emerged as a potential solution to address the challenges of food security and sustainable development (FAO, 2021). Among the different forms of urban agriculture, commercial urban agriculture plays a vital role in ensuring food provision and security (Polling et al., 2016).
Therefore, the research objectives were: 1) to examine and analyse the agricultural potential area based on land use changes in the suburban agricultural area of Roi Et Province, 2) to conduct a SWOT analysis and examine the factors that affect the persistence and loss of agricultural land, as well as analyse production ecosystems in suburban farming areas, 3) to propose land use guidelines for the conservation and development of suburban agricultural areas, with a particular focus on production area planning and supporting urban development based on the green economy.
Urban agriculture, as defined by (Appeaning Addo, 2010) and (Ackerman, Conard et al., 2014), includes a wide range of agricultural activities conducted within and around urban areas. These activities involve not only the cultivation of crops but also the raising, processing, and selling of livestock, often concentrated on the outskirts of cities (Follmann, Willkomm et al., 2021). It is commonly practiced in various urban settings, such as community gardens, vacant public spaces, barns, cellars, rooftops, and open field plots (Specht, Siebert et al., 2014). The diversity of urban agriculture extends from small-scale backyard gardens to more organized efforts like planned community gardens, forest gardening, and street landscaping. Additionally, advanced methods such as greenhouses, green walls, vertical farming, urban beekeeping, rooftop gardens, and aquaponics are increasingly being adopted to maximize urban space utilization (Dane, 2020; Spacey, 2017). These innovative practices are particularly relevant in densely populated urban areas, where limited space necessitates creative solutions for producing perishable, high-value products such as green vegetables, herbs, fresh milk, eggs, fish, poultry, and pig meat (Azunre, Amponsah et al., 2019; Clucas, Parker et al., 2018). In many developing countries, urban agriculture has gained significant traction, particularly among low-income populations, due to its wide-ranging benefits (Ackerman, Conard et al., 2014). Besides offering employment and income generation opportunities, it plays a pivotal role in enhancing access to nutritious diets, providing recreational activities, improving public health, and promoting food security. Moreover, urban agriculture supports food education initiatives and contributes to environmental sustainability through better waste management and resource utilization (Caputo, Zagarella et al., 2020).
Urbanization in Vietnam, particularly in peri-urban regions such as Thai Nguyen province, has been progressing at an accelerated pace. By 2020, national urbanization rates were projected to reach 39.3%, with further increases expected to 50–55% by 2035. In Thai Nguyen, a province situated near Hanoi, rapid urban-industrial development has led to a significant reduction in agricultural land, posing challenges for both food security and environmental sustainability. In response to these challenges, the province has turned to sustainable urban agriculture as a strategy to produce safe, high-quality food, conserve the environment, and improve income opportunities for residents. An analysis of data from 2015 to 2018 identified five key factors influencing the development of urban agriculture in Thai Nguyen: socio-economic dynamics, natural conditions and infrastructure, regulatory frameworks, urban planning, and integration efforts. These factors play a pivotal role in balancing urbanization with agricultural sustainability in the region (Diep, Linh et al., 2021). Moreover, as Eggermont, Balian et al. (2015) emphasize, urban agriculture has been increasingly embraced globally as part of neighborhood strategies aimed at enhancing urban resilience. This multifunctional green intervention not only contributes to food production but also fosters social, economic, and environmental sustainability, making it a vital component of sustainable urban development.
Urban green economyIntegrated urban farming is a form of green economic activity that can generate income to meet both the economic and nutritional needs of families through sustainable urban agricultural practices (Hammelman, Shoffner et al., 2022). Urban agriculture plays a crucial role in ensuring food availability, with its primary concerns revolving around food safety, food affordability, and the stimulation of the local economy. Moreover, the integration of urban agriculture into the green economy enhances community economic well-being and helps mitigate risks of significant environmental challenges, including the adverse effects of pandemics on both macro and micro levels of food security (Apriantoro, Rahayuningsih et al., 2022). The concept of a green economy extends beyond economic development to include a wide range of ecological considerations (Manfrini, Pierpaoli et al., 2015). It is underpinned by three core principles: economic growth, efficiency, and the quality of growth. Central to the implementation of the green economy is the first principle-economic development which serves as its primary objective (Pangarso, Sisilia et al., 2022). In addition to its broader goals, the green economy also represents an approach to local economic development. This approach emphasizes a bottom-up, participatory framework that prioritizes the utilization of local human and natural resources to improve the quality of life within communities (Akudugu, 2018; Mensah, Bawole et al., 2017; Mensah, Bawole et al., 2019) . By actively engaging community members in decisions on resource allocation, the green economy ensures socio-economic benefits for all stakeholders (Mensah, Domfeh et al., 2013). This framework places particular emphasis on activities at the city, district, and regional levels, aiming to integrate economic and social development with urban planning and infrastructure improvements to enhance local conditions. For urban areas to fully harness the benefits of urban agriculture-particularly its ecological functions-urban authorities must allocate suitable spaces for such activities through deliberate urban land zoning. Intentional planning ensures that urban agriculture can significantly contribute to sustainable urban development and environmental management (Mensah, 2023).
Participation in urban agricultureA SWOT (Strengths - Weaknesses - Opportunities - Threats) analysis is a beneficial method for identifying strategic directions for an organization (Ramaloo, Siwar et al., 2018). As a strategic planning tool, SWOT analysis evaluates both the internal and external environments of an organization (Al Salmi and Hasnan, 2015; David, David et al., 2017). It involves a comparative assessment of the organization’s internal strengths and weaknesses, which reflect its available resources, in relation to external opportunities for growth and improvement, as well as potential threats posed by the surrounding environment (Ommani, 2011; Valentin, 2005). While SWOT analysis is commonly used in business planning, its application has broadened to include the evaluation of decision-making issues, policy assessments, and the systematic analysis of sustainable agriculture (Ramaloo, Siwar et al., 2018). For instance, Falsolayman and Sadeghi (2013) employed SWOT analysis to evaluate sustainable agriculture, an approach that has gained traction in business contexts. Additionally, several studies have utilized SWOT analysis in the field of sustainable development (Ghorbani, Raufirad et al., 2015; Halla, 2007; Liu, 2013; Ommani, 2011; Reihanian, Mahmood et al., 2012; VALIPOUR, AKBARI et al., 2013; Zhang, 2012) to develop strategies for urban agriculture.
In a study on urban agriculture (UA) development in Penang state, Malaysia, SWOT analysis was applied based on expert interviews to assess the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. The findings indicated that prioritizing strategic plans for urban agriculture development should incorporate the legal framework, financial aspects, infrastructure, land and water management, environmental and health considerations, social aspects, marketing, and research and development (Ramaloo, Siwar et al., 2018). Similarly, SWOT analysis was used as a strategic planning tool to identify strategies for achieving urban livability in Tehran. It provided insights into key internal and external factors essential for meeting the objectives. In SWOT analyses, strengths and weaknesses are classified as internal factors, while opportunities and threats are categorized as external factors. SWOT analysis has proven valuable across various industries, including business, education, healthcare, and urban and land use planning (Kazemi, Abolhassani et al., 2018).
This study employed SWOT analysis to assess the development of urban agriculture in Roi Et Province, Thailand, aiming to identify critical factors influencing urban agriculture and to establish guidelines for its growth in urban areas. SWOT analysis examined both internal and external factors. In this context, ‘strengths’ referred to the current advantages of urban agriculture, ‘opportunities’ related to potential actions for enhancing development, ‘weaknesses’ described existing challenges, and 'threats' referred to potential risks (Arslan and Er, 2008). These interactions informed strategies to promote urban agricultural activities, as well as food security and sustainability in Roi Et Province. Table 1 presents the findings from the literature review, highlighting the challenges and opportunities for aligning urban green development.
| Aspects | Urban Agriculture | Urban Green Economy | Participation in Urban Agriculture |
|---|---|---|---|
| Definition | Agricultural activities in urban and peri-urban areas, including crop cultivation, livestock raising, processing, and selling | Integrated urban farming aligns with green economic principles to enhance economic well-being and mitigate environmental impacts | SWOT analysis evaluates internal and external factors to create strategic plans for urban agriculture development |
| Activities | Gardens, rooftops, barns, greenhouses, aquaponics setups; includes tactical gardens, vertical farms, beekeeping, and green walls | Local-level approaches involving participatory methods, urban zoning, and utilizing natural and human resources for socio-economic benefit | SWOT analysis is a strategic planning tool, applied to assess urban agriculture in different regions and contexts |
| Focus | High-value, perishable products like vegetables, herbs, eggs, fish, and poultry | Economic growth, efficiency, and quality development, addressing food security and reducing environmental risks | Strategies enhance liveability, sustainability, and resilience through planned interventions and systematic evaluation |
|
Approach/ Framework Used |
Employment, income generation, healthier diets, leisure, environmental management, and food security | Enhances quality of life, supports ecological functions, and integrates urban planning with local economic and social development | Applied to urban agriculture contexts in Penang, Malaysia, and Tehran, Iran, focusing on legal, infrastructure, marketing, social aspects |
| Case Studies | Thai Nguyen, Vietnam: Urban agriculture addresses urbanization challenges as rapid urbanization in peri-urban areas | Sustainable urban agriculture to balance food security and land use by sustainable farming methods for safe, high-quality food production | Development of strategies for integrating urban agriculture into urban planning by involving all stakeholder’s engagement. |
| Roi Et, Thailand: experiencing rapid urban expansion into suburban areas due to lower land prices, selling agricultural land for development | Potential for commercial urban agriculture to mitigate food insecurity in urbanizing regions | SWOT analysis identifies key factors for urban agriculture in suburban areas aligns with SDG 2, contributing to food security initiatives |
Roi Et Province is a significant area in the northeastern Thailand, predominantly consisting of plains situated at an elevation of approximately 130-160 meters above sea level and drained by the Chi River. The Yang River serves as the primary watercourse, while the Mun River flows along the southern border, marking the boundary with Surin Province. The flowing together of the Chi and Mun Rivers creates a floodplain that is conducive to rice farming. The total forested area in the province covers 346 square kilometers, which represents 4.4 percent of the total provincial area (Royal Forest Department, 2019). The study area covered the suburban agricultural zone of Roi Et, with an approximate land area of 45.44 square kilometers, based on the boundaries outlined in the Roi Et Comprehensive Plan 2562 B.E., which is derived from the Land Use Plan and Classification attached to the Ministerial Regulations, as shown in Figure 1.
Roi Et Province area b) Roi Et Comprehensive Plan 2562 B.E.
(Source: Consultants of Technology Company Limited : COT)
To investigate suburban agricultural areas within the boundaries of the Roi Et Comprehensive Plan, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) were employed to analyze and process land use changes. The Topographic Map L7018 series from the Royal Thai Survey Department, along with GPS technology, was utilized for land use classification. This approach helped identify key variables and criteria for spatial data analysis, allowing for the setting down of suitable areas. Additionally, the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) was employed as an effective tool for analyzing structured data and making complex decisions. It provided a clear framework for understanding land use changes (Iamtrakul, Pimonsatian et al., 2010). The AHP questionnaire, based on data collected from experts, was administered to three individuals. The Consistency Ratio (C.R.) was calculated at 0.065, and the weights for each factor are presented in Table 2.
| Factors Affecting Agricultural Potential Areas | Main Factor Weight |
|---|---|
|
A1 Land Use A2 Slope A3 Soil Surface Drainage A4 Distance from Water Resource A5 Water Flow Path |
0.19 0.09 0.11 0.15 0.09 |
Remark : The Weighing Factor Analysis using Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) was applied to consider the Consistency Ratio (C.R.). If C.R. is less than or equal to 0.1, that is acceptable. If C.R. is more than 0.1 that is unacceptable.
The main factor in Figure 2 defines the sub-main factors identified by the researcher, which include various agricultural elements that contribute to the potential of the agricultural area.
Figure 3 showed the process to classify agricultural areas in Roi Et Province through overlay technique.
Azmi (2023) utilized SWOT analysis to gather information through documents, questionnaires, and expert interviews on sustainable development strategies for Kermanshah city’s urban development. A SWOT analysis was employed to assess the potential, challenges, limitations, and trends influencing the development and transformation of agricultural areas. Based on this analysis, recommendations for the conservation and development of suburban agricultural areas in Roi Et Province were formulated, including proposed measures, policies, and examples to support urban development in alignment with a green economy. To ensure the accuracy and relevance of data on land use, ecosystems, and agricultural products, interviews were conducted with stakeholders, including 10 community leaders, farmer groups, and local authorities such as the Roi Et Provincial Public Works and Town and Country Planning Office. Additional agencies involved in urban development and land use management also participated in a collaborative workshop. The research framework for urban agriculture development in Roi Et is illustrated in Figure 4.
After conducting an overlay analysis of the land use database from 2013 to 2019, it was determined that in 2013, the Roi Et Comprehensive Plan covered an area of 23.36 sq.km., representing 51.41 percent of the study area. This comprised of 18.71 sq.km. (41.18 percent) of agricultural land, 0.01 sq.km. (0.01 percent) of forested area, 1.59 sq.km. (3.49 percent) of miscellaneous areas, and 1.77 sq.km. (3.90 percent) of water resources. By 2019, the Roi Et Comprehensive Plan had expanded to cover an area of 25.20 sq.km., representing 55.45 percent of the study area. This included 16.96 sq.km. (37.33 percent) of agricultural land, 0.01 sq.km. (0.01 percent) of forested area, 1.57 sq.km. (3.46 percent) of miscellaneous areas, and 1.70 sq.km. (3.74 percent) of water resources. When examining the land use changes between 2013 and 2019, it was found that the area allocated to community areas and buildings experienced the largest increase, expanding by 1.84 sq.km. at an annual rate of 4.03 percent. This was followed by a 0.11 sq.km. increase in miscellaneous areas, with an annual growth rate of 0.25 percent. In contrast, agricultural areas saw the most significant decline, decreasing by 1.75 sq.km. at an annual rate of 3.85 percent. Additionally, the area of water resources decreased by 0.20 sq.km., corresponding to a reduction rate of 0.44 percent per year. Notably, the forested area remained unchanged, as illustrated in Figure 5 and Figure 6.
a)Land use change in 2013 b) Land use change in 2019
Based on the analysis, which includes spatial factors and weighted scoring, the potential areas for development have been classified into four categories: 1) Very high potential area, covering 0.27 sq.km. (0.60 percent), 2) High potential area, covering 9.89 sq.km. (21.75 percent), 3) Medium potential area, covering 33.93 sq.km. (74.66 percent), and 4) Low potential area, covering 1.36 sq.km. (2.99 percent). Consequently, the areas with the highest development potential are located in and around Roi Et city, specifically in Dong Lan Sub-district and Niwet Sub-district, as shown in Figure 7.
According to the survey, the researcher found that Dong Lan Sub-district and Niwet Sub-district are primarily engaged in agriculture, with approximately 95 percent of the total population involved in this sector. The main economic crop cultivated is rice, followed by tobacco as the soil texture is sandy loam (Land Development Department, 2020). Additionally, other crops such as corn, yardlong beans, cucumbers, chili peppers, and various vegetables are also grown in the area, as shown Figure 8.
Based on interviews conducted during the workshop with stakeholders, the researchers conducted a SWOT analysis to identify the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats related to suburban agriculture issues. Table 3 presents the results of this analysis, which are categorized into two factors: internal factors (strengths and weaknesses) and external factors (opportunities and threats). Internal factors are solely influenced by the development of urban agriculture in Roi Et and can have either positive effects (strengths) or negative effects (weaknesses). External factors, on the other hand, originate from nature, the environment, and external influences. The SWOT analysis has proven to be an effective tool for accurately determining the guidelines for suburban agriculture concepts that support the green economy strategy.
| Internal Factors | External Factors | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Strength-S | Weakness-W | Opportunities-O | Threats-T |
|
1. The topography is lowland and plain, it’s suitable for agriculture and various types of development. 2. The province is in the north-eastern region, with well-connected transportation networks linking urban communities and providing convenient access. 3. Efficient transport network for goods distribution both by land and air and connecting to the East-West Economic Corridor route (EWEC). 4. National Highway No. 23 has the great potential to support travel by linking Ubon Ratchathani and Mukdahan provinces. 5. The double-track railway project is underway. The route includes Ban Phai - Maha Sarakham - Roi Et - Mukdahan - Nakhon Phanom, and the Roi Et and Phon Thong railway stations, designated as CY, can also facilitate freight transport. 6. The agricultural sector is experiencing the highest economic growth rate and is an important manufacturing sector in the province. 7. The working age is majority of the population who can play a significant role in the province's future development. |
1. The upper part of Roi Et city is a plain area that experiences frequent flooding problems and has inadequate drainage systems. 2. At Suvarnabhumi District, Kasetwisai District, and Pathumrat District, there is less rainfall compared to other areas. This results in a high risk of drought. 3. Settlements are established on the boundary of agricultural and miscellaneous areas. 4. The soil is deteriorating and becoming unsuitable for agriculture as chemical fertilizers continuously use. 5. a scattered small community and rural community are throughout the area, which requires a high budget of public services. 6. Inefficient land use direction for urbanization that agricultural areas are being converted into residential areas. 7. Inadequate infrastructure due to the hilly terrain in some parts of the city. 8. Inefficiencies in water sharing management between water user groups. 9. The irrigation system cannot be effectively developed due to the sandy loam soil structure, |
1. The government's economic development policy is designed to support trade and investment in the province, including infrastructure development policies to support investment and logistics. 2. Strategies, policies, and guidelines for area development focus on land use planning. It also aims to spread growth to surrounding rural communities through a network of urban clusters that connect economic and social systems. 3. Strategies, policies, and plans from various domestic and foreign agencies have a strong focus on the sustainable management of natural resources and the environment. 4. The province's entry into the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) has positive effects on trade expansion, investment, product exports, tourism, and services. It also benefits the agro-processing industry. 5. Roi Et Province is located along the East-West Economic Corridor (EWEC) that promotes economic expansion and facilitates continuous transportation to the border trade area. |
1. The volatility of world market prices and the Thai Baht, as well as fluctuations in the financial market, have an impact on the export market in Thailand. 2. When a competitive situation arises in the world market, export countries are compelled to compete more fiercely in terms of both quality and price. 3. Challenges stemming from natural disasters and the unpredictable consequences of global climate change. |
Based on the above SWOT findings, the factors impacting the loss of agricultural land have been identified as follows:
The factors influencing agricultural land loss align with five key elements that determine urban agriculture development: socio-economic conditions, natural environment, infrastructure, regulatory frameworks, and urban planning integration initiatives (Diep, Linh et al., 2021). Additionally, the factors affecting the preservation of agricultural land include the following:
These factors identified through the SWOT analysis were incorporated into a brainstorming session with stakeholders to discuss measures for the conservation and development of suburban agricultural areas. The purpose of this meeting was to gather public opinion and clarify the objectives of preliminary concept outlining strategies for conserving and developing agricultural areas (Figure 6). The guidelines emphasize the importance of fostering development while preserving and enhancing the environment, as well as improving the quality of life for residents, with the following key concepts:
Experts in urban design, planning, public participation, and community enterprise marketing shared their opinions and suggestions for developing a green economy in suburban agricultural areas.
To illustrate this, Figure 8 presents the final land use guideline, reflecting the spatial potential analysis conducted by the researchers.
Based on spatial analysis, interviews conducted during the workshop with stakeholders, the key guidelines for conserving and developing the suburban agricultural areas in Roi Et can be summarized into three key aspects:
· To promote investment in the agricultural sector in the suburban area of Roi Et, it is important to establish funds or cooperatives that can provide capital to farmers. This is particularly significant because farmers in this area have close-knit relationships based on kinship and strong community leadership. Therefore, setting up and managing a farmer group or cooperative encourages the economic development; ensure social security and health safety for consumers (Diep, Linh et al., 2021). It should not be a challenging task.
· To develop necessary public utilities and infrastructure, development should be restricted, especially in agricultural areas with potential for sustainable use. This includes limiting the development of land transportation routes or roads in these areas. However, Diep, Linh et al. (2021) emphasized that railways and waterways are important factors for improving production conditions, reducing costs and risks, and promoting the flow of urban agriculture. Therefore, while existing roads may be widened or improved as needed, these improvements should not encourage or facilitate the expansion of public utilities and facilities into agricultural areas.
· To monitor and maintain the quality of soil and water resources, strict environmental quality control measures must be implemented. This includes establishing community-level wastewater management systems or wastewater treatment facilities for commercial, residential, and agricultural areas. Such measures are essential to prevent interference between different activities and ensure a healthy environment in suburban areas.
· To determine the appropriate land use for the area, it is critical to adhere to the land use plans outlined in the Roi Et city plan. Within the study area, suburban agricultural areas are categorized under Code 1, in accordance with land use regulations set by the Department of Public Works and Town & Country Planning (DPT). These areas, designated as rural and agricultural (green zones), primarily serve to support flood waters and function as agricultural zones. Consequently, these areas are classified as low-density residential zones, with specific guidelines and requirements for land use. It is therefore important to promote and designate these areas to fulfill the responsibilities outlined by DPT through systematic, transparent, and scientific approaches (Sharma, Saini et al., 2023).
· To support agriculture that is appropriate for the area and its soil and natural conditions, special agricultural zones within the city will provide benefits linked to urban agriculture, particularly those related to ecological functions (Mensah, 2023). These zones will serve as both learning resources and tourist attractions. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore various aspects of agriculture, including development, technology, cultivation, and organic farming. Additionally, they will gain insights into the lifestyle and culture of traditional communities, which are valuable and deserve preservation.
· To promote investment in the agricultural sector in the suburban area of Roi Et, it is vital to establish funds or cooperatives to provide capital for farmers. This is particularly relevant as farmers in these areas often have strong kinship-based communities and leadership. Therefore, forming and managing farmer groups or cooperatives will promote economic development and ensure social security and health safety for consumers (Diep, Linh et al., 2021). This should not be a difficult task given the existing social structures.
· Niwet Subdistrict and Dong Lan Subdistrict are suitable areas for implementing measures to promote and preserve suburban agricultural areas. Following a comprehensive spatial analysis and stakeholder meetings, these areas stand out as the second key initiative. In comparison, Thai Nguyen province in Vietnam, as a growing urban economic hub, acts as a center for international agricultural trade. International cooperation and integration have provided Thai Nguyen with opportunities to improve agricultural practices, enhance technical expertise, and strengthen infrastructure for effective production and development (Diep, Linh et al., 2021). Establishing a central hub for collecting and distributing agricultural products, supported by collaboration between farmers, government agencies, the private sector, and agricultural communities, is essential to access external markets (Pölling, Mergenthaler et al., 2016).
· To develop personnel in both the public and private sectors to acquire expertise in agricultural technology and innovation is crucial. This knowledge can then be shared to farmers through field demonstrations. Collaborating with farmers in the local area, including organizing study tours, will help enhance the skills and potential of farmers. This is particularly important for cultivating a new generation of farmers, known as Young Smart Farmers, who can adopt innovative agricultural practices. These practices should integrate modern technology to quickly improve productivity, quality, added value, and ensure food safety and hygiene, while also catering to the lifestyles of urban dwellers (Diep, Linh et al., 2021).
· To support agriculture, it is essential to promote organic farming and subsistence farming, such as mixed farming, without the use of chemicals. Farmer groups should be encouraged to participate in land reform projects such as land consolidation, highlighting the benefits of organizing in this way (Yamashita and Morisawa, 2020). Cooperation among various sectors, including the public and private sectors, should be fostered to provide support and promote agricultural tourism development. Emphasizing cultural traditions in the Northeast, such as 'Heet Sip Song, Kong Sip Si,' Jain, Bun Khun Lan tradition (Kum Khao Yai), and others, will help showcase the unique characteristics of the region and the agricultural knowledge associated with these practices. This will contribute to increasing income for the farming community and instil pride and motivation among farmers to continue their agricultural activities.
This measurement aligns with the study by Sharma, Saini et al. (2023), which emphasizes that for a better understanding of land use planning for urban development, three essential criteria identified by experts are physical, followed by social, economic, and institutional factors for implementing standards. It is recommended to implement measures that conserve agricultural areas in the suburbs of Roi Et province. In practice, these measures have been presented to the Department of Public Works and Town & Country Planning (DPT), enabling them to incorporate and apply these policies and development guidelines in the preparation and improvement of the Roi Et comprehensive city plan, specifically focusing on the green zones designated for agricultural conservation. These measures should be integrated into the city’s development plans, benefiting both farmers and entrepreneurs. This will generate sufficient income to meet the community’s needs. However, it is crucial to limit development in order to preserve the agricultural nature of these areas, ensuring that they continue to serve as the primary source of food production for Roi Et City.
The study aimed to explore strategies for conserving and developing suburban agricultural areas in Roi Et Province to support urban development aligned with a green economy. A geographic information system (GIS) was employed for spatial analysis to identify areas suitable for conservation and spatial control, complemented by urban planning measures. The findings indicated that the suburban agricultural areas of Roi Et encircled the city within the boundaries of Roi Et Municipality and were increasingly invaded due to urban expansion. These areas were particularly characterized by fertile soils that were highly suitable for agriculture. Using SWOT analysis and in-depth interviews with key informants, the study proposed land-use guidelines through stakeholder meetings to address urban agricultural challenges across three key dimensions: physical, economic, and social. A specific agricultural zoning strategy was recommended to protect fertile soils and limit non-agricultural development in the Roi Et region. This included establishing clear urban code regulations to demarcate urban and agricultural zones, thereby preventing uncontrolled urban sprawl and ensuring long-term security for farming activities. Additionally, the strategy encouraged mixed-use development in peri-urban areas to allow limited housing, retail, and agriculture to coexist harmoniously.
To further support a green economy and foster community engagement, the government was advised to provide grants or tax incentives to promote sustainable and eco-friendly farming practices. These measures were proposed to enhance the accessibility of agricultural products for urban dwellers and create green spaces for food supply and recreation. Establishing local networks among communities and farmers through participatory planning workshops was also recommended to align policies with stakeholders’ needs, fostering ecological balance and sustainability.
These strategies emphasize the integration of urban development with agricultural conservation, thereby creating a sustainable framework for Roi Et’s suburban areas while upholding the vision of a green economy.
Future research should examine how urban agriculture policies can be integrated into the existing comprehensive city plan of Roi Et, particularly within designated green zones. Additionally, studies should investigate how urban agriculture contributes to sustainable income generation and economic resilience in Roi Et City. This includes exploring the potential of agro-tourism, product marketing, and community enterprises to boost the local economy. Employing statistical models or advanced analyses could provide further insights and support for sustainable practices in urban agriculture.
This study was designed, directed conceptualization and coordinated by K. A. as the principal investigator provided technical guidance for all aspects. The writing original draft preparation as review and editing by T.W. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.
The authors declare that they have no conflicts of interest regarding the publication of the paper.
This work of research was supported by Roi Et Rajabhat University, Program Management Unit on Area Based Development (PMU A), Office of the Council for Higher Education Policy, Science, Research and National Innovation Agency (NSTDA)
