The Market Value of Upcycled Home Decorative Furniture Products from Denim: A Case Study of Hiran Ruchi Subdistrict Community in Bangkok

Abstract

        The problem of managing large waste, such as mattresses and sofas, is one of the major challenges in metropolitan areas, especially in Bangkok, where this type of waste is often disposed improperly and negatively impacts the environment. This research focuses on presenting a large-scale waste management approach through the upcycling process. One of the key materials explored in this research is denim, which is difficult to decompose but can be creatively reused. This research had three objectives: (1) To identify the initial problems regarding surplus materials in the community in Hiran Ruchi Subdistrict, Thon Buri District, Bangkok. (2) To develop a prototype of home decorative furniture products from denim through the upcycling process to create market value for the community. (3) To analyze the relationship between home decorative furniture products made from denim, and the upcycling process that creates market value for the community. The researchers collected data from 500 voluntary participants in the Hiran Ruchi community, using a survey questionnaire and a set of interview questions with IOC values greater than 0.6. The interviews with the participants focused on waste material problems in the community and selection of furniture for product development, and with professional experts on product design, production processes, and marketing. The results indicated the positive relationship between home decorative furniture products made from denim and the upcycling process that creates market value for the community. To the participants under study, the upcycling approach to product development not only addresses the identified waste problem but also taps on new markets for upcycled products with environmental sustainability value. It was also expected that upcycled products could help generate income for the community, aligning with the needs and value of modern consumers for environmental conservation and sustainability in product development.