Doi Tung is the name of a high mountain in Chiang Rai, Thailand’s northernmost province. This mountain is the site of the Doi Tung Development Project, which is recognized internationally as a model for Sustainable Alternative Livelihood Development.
The Doi Tung Development Project, a major environmental and socio-economic development program, was initiated by Her Royal Highness Princess Srinagarindra, the mother of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej.
When the Princess Mother visited Doi Tung in 1987, the hills in the area were denuded because of the destructive slash-and-burn technique of clearing land and excessive logging. She expressed her intention to reforest Doi Tung, upgrade the standard of living of local people, provide them with more educational opportunities and public health services, and promote agricultural development in a systematic manner. Local residents consisted of six ethnic groups living without basic infrastructure.
The project was launched in 1988 by the Mae Fah Luang Foundation, a non-profit organization under the patronage of the late Princess Mother. It has been carried out in stages covering 30 years, ranging from the development of infrastructure to the improvement of the quality of life and self-sufficiency, based on sustainable use of natural resources and environmental conservation.
Since the inception of the Doi Tung Development Project, deforested areas have been reclaimed, agro-forestry has replaced opium growing, opium addicts have been rehabilitated, and improved hygiene has contributed to the better health of local people. Training has offered the ethnic groups new job opportunities. Improved infrastructure has brought amenities and a rising standard of living, and has helped in tourism promotion.
