An Examination of the Socio-Economic and Behavioural Drivers of Agricultural Residue Burning Among Rice and Sugarcane Farmers: Towards Sustainable Policy Interventions

This document is an empirical study examining the economic, social, and behavioral factors driving the burning of rice straw and sugarcane leaves by farmers in Thailand. The findings show that crop residue burning is mainly driven by low costs, technical constraints, and a tendency to prioritize short-term benefits. This practice contributes to air pollution, threatens public health, increases greenhouse gas emissions, and causes economic losses. The report recommends policy measures to support non-burning residue management, encourage behavioral change, and promote sustainable agricultural practices.