Sufficiency economy for social and environmental sustainability: A case study of four villages in rural Thailand

This study explored the use and impacts of the “sufficiency economy” philosophy among Thai villagers. This philosophy was presented by His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej. It guides the way Thai villagers live, and also forms a base for the nation’s development plan. This study explores: 1) how do Thai villagers live while following the philosophy of sufficiency economy? 2) What difficulties impede implementation of the philosophy? 3) How does the philosophy help to increase social and environmental sustainability? The researchers studied four villages in Thailand, conducted in-depth interviews, surveys and a focus group. They found that the philosophy of sufficiency economy can be used by individuals to manage their personal livelihoods, as well as to manage social and environmental sustainability in Thailand, and be applied to other areas.