Social Impacts of Planthopper Outbreaks in Thailand

Abstract

The widespread planthopper outbreaks that had occurred in Asia, especially in central Thailand during the 2010–2012 crop seasons resulted in severe crop losses to rice farmers. Thousands of farmers have been affected by this insecticide-induced pest problem. A study to address the social impacts of pest outbreaks on rice farmers was conducted to better understand the social implications of losses from pests on the rice farming communities. Planthopper outbreaks started in 2007 and had occurred annually in the last 4 years, all the farmers interviewed had had at least one outbreak. Losses were higher in Ang Thong and Suphan Buri, 4.3 t/ha, while farmers in Chainat suffered losses of 3.5 t/ha. Adaptation strategies after the BPH outbreak ranged from replanting their rice farm, planting ahead of their neighbors, planting synchronously with other farmers, pursuing other income sources, and planting a different variety, to borrowing money to pay off debts. Specific household adjustments that farmers did to cope with crop losses included reducing their household expenses, reducing their purchases, giving up recreational activities, and cutting down on household costs such as electricity consumption. Most respondents’ adaptation response centered on insecticide use—to look for a more effective insecticide and to borrow money to buy more insecticides. Farmers’ coping mechanisms included loan repayment schemes, reduction in household spending, and starting an alternative income source. To help farmers reduce their use of abamectin and cypermethrin, a media campaign was launched with support from the private sector. The campaign had worked in creating awareness and had immediate effects on farmers’ newly formed beliefs and practices.