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Choice Modeling for the Commercial Cultivation of Underutilized Aromatic Plants for Producing Mosquito Repellents:
K D Munugoda1, T S Talagala2, S M C U P Subasinghe1
1Centre for Forestry and Environment, Department of Forestry and Environmental Science, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda, CO 10250 Sri Lanka.
Economic Botany
|June 26, 2023
Summary
Rural Sri Lankans show high willingness to cultivate aromatic plants for natural mosquito repellents. Men and those with elementary education were most inclined, highlighting potential for economic development.
Area of Science:
- Ethnobotany
- Agricultural Economics
- Public Health Entomology
Background:
- Mosquito-borne diseases cause significant economic losses in tropical regions.
- Plant-based mosquito repellents offer a sustainable alternative to synthetic options.
- Underutilized aromatic plants possess potential mosquito repellent properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the willingness of the rural Sri Lankan population to cultivate and supply aromatic plants with mosquito repellent abilities.
- To identify key demographic factors influencing this willingness.
- To develop a predictive model for farmer engagement in cultivating these plants.
Main Methods:
- A questionnaire survey was conducted to identify and rank common aromatic plants with repellent properties.
- Data on willingness to cultivate and supply were collected and analyzed using Chi-squared tests.
- A random forest model was employed to predict willingness based on demographic and household factors.
Main Results:
- A list of 25 top-ranked aromatic plants was identified, including species like Cinnamomum verum and Ocimum tenuiflorum.
- Willingness to cultivate and supply ranged from 60% to 88%, with men (82%) and individuals with elementary education (85%) showing higher inclination.
- Households with more non-income-generating members reported 100% willingness.
Conclusions:
- There is substantial potential for the cultivation and supply of aromatic plants as natural mosquito repellents in rural Sri Lanka.
- Understanding demographic drivers is crucial for successful implementation of such agricultural initiatives.
- The developed random forest model can aid in strategic planning for introducing and promoting these valuable plants.
