Adaptive Management Strategies for Coping with Climate Change in Sugarcane Production: A Case Study of Phu Khieo District, Chaiyaphum Province

Abstract

This research studied the following: (1) The impacts of climate change on sugarcane cultivation; (2) Management approaches to cope with climate change; and (3) The quality of life of sugarcane farmers in Phu Khiao District, Chaiyaphum Province. A qualitative research methodology was employed, collecting data through in-depth interviews with eight sugarcane farmers in Phu Khiao District. The data were organized and coded, and responses with related meanings were connected in order to analyze the information by identifying key themes that explain the characteristics and issues related to the impacts of climate change on sugarcane cultivation, the management response, and quality of life of farmers affected by climate change.  The findings are summarized based on the content analysis. The study found that farmers were affected by the uncertainty of rainfall, drought, water shortages, soil and moisture problems, and rising temperatures, which have led to unstable crop yields and increased production costs. This instability, in turn, has created pressure on household economies and agricultural security. Farmers are adapting through various strategies, such as planning cultivation based on weather forecasts, adjusting land use and water systems, selecting resilient sugarcane varieties, improving soil quality, applying water management innovations, and choosing appropriate planting periods. These measures helped reduce risk and increased the chances of maintaining production stability. At the same time, the impacts of climate change were also linked to farmers’ quality of life, including income, physical and mental health, and the cost burden, highlighting the need for government policy support and community participation. In conclusion, building the adaptive capacity of sugarcane farmers requires both individual adaptative mechanisms and structural support from the government, under the concept of New Public Management (NPM), which emphasizes the participation of all sectors in order to enhance farmers’ quality of life toward achieving sustainability.