TEDxKrungthep - Bennett Haynes - Cultivating Alternative Agriculture in Thailand

Bennett Haynes works for an organic farmers' organization in northeast Thailand called the Alternative Agriculture Network -- Esan (AAN). During his first year with the AAN, Bennett organized an organic farming curriculum with a local organization called Surin Farmers Support in Surin province. Since then, Bennett has been working on "food ways" research with villagers in Yasothon province. He also coordinates consumer awareness campaigns with the Yasothon Green Market and supports high quality standards for the market. As northeast Thailand grows, what are the implications for food security and food culture? How can organic farming of rice, vegetables, fruits and local herbal plants provide a safe alternative for farmers and consumers? These are the challenges that the AAN approaches through farmer-to-farmer exchange, community-based research, technical training and alternative markets. The AAN also collaborates with key government offices to access more farmers and develop community food security policy. About TEDx, x = independently organized event In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized. (Subject to certain rules and regulations.)