In Thailand, The Nation reported that the volume of burnt sugarcane during the 2024-25 harvest season is expected to decrease by more than 10% compared to the previous year, with the target set at a 25% reduction, due to several incentives.
An official of the Office of the Cane and Sugar Board (OCSB) said that the incentives for sugarcane farmers to harvest 100% fresh sugarcane, continuing from last year, aims to increase income from sugarcane leaves and tops.
This initiative is expected to help reduce sugarcane burning, lower the causes of PM 2.5 dust pollution, mitigate health impacts on the public, and foster a positive environment for economic activities, according to the report.
The support funds for purchasing leaves and tops will provide biomass fuel for biomass power plants, encouraging farmers to recognize the value and benefits of sugarcane leaves and tops.
OCSB secretary-general Bainoi Suwanchatree said that the estimated amount of sugarcane for the 2024-25 production season is expected to reach 93 million tons, an increase from 82 million tons in the 2023-24 season.
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Tags: sugarcane, Thailand
Category: Food & Agriculture
