Editorial

Abstract

Journal of Agricultural Research and Academic Promotion, Volume 41, Issue 1 (January–April 2024) is the first issue of the year 2024. Climate change continues to be a global priority, and it remains a major concern for both the world and Thailand. Meanwhile, the issue of PM 2.5 dust, which has persisted since the end of last year, has prompted Thailand to increase the level of strictness in regulating PM 2.5 standards by lowering the 24-hour average limit from 50 micrograms per cubic meter to 37.5 micrograms per cubic meter.

The issue of water resources also remains a critical concern, particularly the water crises caused by climate change, such as flooding and drought. Therefore, effective planning for water usage to maximize its benefits is essential. Land management should support sustainable agricultural practices that do not harm the environment, while enhancing the capacity to adapt to climate change—particularly in agriculture, fisheries, and among vulnerable groups—through education. There is also an emphasis on developing an economy that minimizes societal impacts, preserves environmental balance, and reduces greenhouse gas emissions by utilizing science, technology, and innovation to add value to products and services, generate income, and reduce inequality without leaving anyone behind.

This issue of the Journal of Agricultural Research features a wide range of research articles that align with the challenges of climate change. Examples include studies on the interaction between genetics and environmental factors affecting the stability of sweetness and yield in sweet corn; abnormalities in female flowers that bloom in and out of season in "E-Dor" and "Puangthong" longan varieties; factors influencing the adaptability of tilapia farmers in floating cages in Ubon Ratchathani Province to climate change; and research in organic agriculture, such as the extraction and biological activity testing of the medicinal herb Chiretta (Andrographis paniculata). Additionally, the effects of microwave-assisted solvent-free extraction on bioactive compounds from hemp leaves, which inhibit enzymes related to chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs), are discussed. Other topics include the chemical and physical characteristics and gel properties of wheat flour from native varieties grown in northern Thailand, the effects of temperature and pyrolysis time on the properties of biochar and wood vinegar from palm fronds, and factors affecting tea production under good agricultural practices by farmers who are members of the Royal Project Foundation in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai provinces.

There are also various other fascinating studies on agricultural extension in different socio-geographical contexts. We look forward to meeting you again in Issue 2, to be published from May to August.