Application of Science and Technology for Community Water-Related Disaster Risk Reduction:
Thailand’s Good Practices following His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great’s Initiative towards Sustainable Development
In an agricultural country like Thailand, water is life. However, water-related hazards—including floods, landslides, droughts, and saltwater intrusion—disrupt lives and cause significant economic losses. Additionally, unsustainable household, agricultural, and industrial practices contribute to worsening wastewater issues.
For over 20 years, the Hydro-Informatics Institute (HII) under the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation (MHESI) has implemented numerous projects across Thailand to address these challenges. This publication highlights key lessons from 16 successful initiatives. These good practices showcase an integrated approach that applies science, technology, and innovation, combined with indigenous knowledge, to community-based water resource management, reducing flood and drought risks while fostering sustainable agriculture and resilient livelihoods. A crucial factor in this success has been the Public-Private-People Partnership model.
The writer hopes these insights will inspire innovative solutions to mitigate growing water-related risks and contribute to the global mission of ending poverty and hunger.