Strategies for Promoting Multifunctional Urban Agriculture in Bang Khun Thian, Bangkok

Abstract

Urban expansion and land-use changes in Bangkok have posed significant challenges to agricultural practices in Bang Khun Thian District. Multifunctional Urban Agriculture has become an essential concept for ensuring sustainability in urban agriculture. This study aims to explore the environmental context of urban agriculture in Bang Khun Thian and analyze strategies for promoting multifunctional urban agriculture to achieve sustainability in the area. Using SWOT, PESTEL, and McKinsey's 7S Model as analytical tools, the findings reveal that urban agriculture in Bang Khun Thian has strengths in agricultural expertise and strong community relationships but faces limitations in technology adoption, marketing, and knowledge transfer to younger generations. Based on these analyses, the researcher proposes four strategic approaches: (1) conserving mangrove forests to restore ecosystems and promote biodiversity, (2) enhancing the value of local agricultural products through processing and creating community identity, (3) establishing learning centers focused on mangrove ecosystems to transfer agricultural knowledge, and (4) organizing local festivals to promote creative economies and agro-tourism. By integrating these strategies with Julian Steward’s Cultural Ecology framework, which emphasizes the interrelationship between humans, culture, and the environment, and aligning them with Huylenbroeck’s perspective on multifunctional urban agriculture, this study highlights the potential of urban agriculture in Bang Khun Thian District to balance food production, environmental conservation, and cultural preservation.