STUDY AND DEVELOPMENT OF PRODUCTS FROM AGRICULTURAL WASTE MATERIALS OF THE BAN HOM THONG BANANA COMMUNITY ENTERPRISE, BAN KHOK, SANG KHOM DISTRICT, UDON THANI PROVINCE

Abstract

This research aims to study and develop products from agricultural waste materials of the Ban Hom Thong Banana Community Enterprise in Ban Khok, Sang Khom District, Udon Thani Province. A mixed-methods approach was employed, integrating qualitative and quantitative research methods to examine community context, consumer needs, and product design potential. Qualitative data were collected through fieldwork, structured interviews, in-depth interviews, and group interviews, and analyzed using descriptive analysis. Quantitative data were obtained from product evaluation questionnaires administered to three product design experts and a purposive sample of 100 consumers selected from tourists and shoppers at the community enterprise. The results indicated that knowledge of materials, design processes, and community identity could be effectively applied to product development. A sketch design was created and used to develop one prototype product. The evaluation results showed that consumers’ opinions toward the lifestyle product made from agricultural waste materials were at a good to very good level. Respondents perceived that the product enhanced the value of agricultural waste, clearly reflected community identity, and demonstrated potential for commercial development. The developed product contributes to value addition, enhances the competitiveness of the community enterprise, and supports sustainable grassroots economic development.