International Journal of Human Capital in Urban Management
Quarterly Publication

Sustainable aquaculture and urban management: leveraging Tilapia farming for economic and social development

https://doi.org/10.22034/IJHCUM.2026.01.07
Volume 11, Issue 1 - Serial Number 41
Winter 2026
Pages 107-122
International Journal of Human Capital in Urban Management

Document Type : ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE

Authors

W. Madhyamapurush 1
N. Somyarone 1
K. Mairin 2
S. Makkhun 3
K. Ratanasanguanvongs 1
K. Seetapan 3

1 School of Business and Communication Arts, University of Phayao, Phayao, Thailand

2 School of Law, University of Phayao, Phayao, Thailand

3 School of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Phayao, Phayao, Thailand

Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Sustainable aquaculture offers a promising solution by merging eco-friendly fish farming with urban development strategies. Sustainable aquaculture can enhance food security by adopting innovative technologies and resource-efficient practices while minimizing ecological impact. This research explores the integration of Tilapia farming into urban management strategies in Phayao, Thailand, focusing on its economic and social implications.
METHODS: A structured questionnaire was distributed to 436 Tilapia farmers in Phayao to gather data on farm productivity, income levels, market access, and sustainability practices. The data analysis employed descriptive statistics, t-test, multiple regression analysis, and Return on Investment calculations to assess the financial viability of Tilapia farming and the influence of various socioeconomic factors on production.
FINDINGS: Key variables influencing Tilapia farming include farm size, access to quality feed, market access, pond management practices, water source, and government support. These factors are analyzed to assess their impact on profitability, sustainability, and social development. Results reveal that farm size, access to quality feed, and market connectivity are significant determinants of profitability. Furthermore, policy support and urban infrastructure are crucial to the long-term sustainability of Tilapia farming. This research illustrates how urban-integrated Tilapia farming can stimulate local economies and create careers while decreasing dependence on external food sources. All predictors showed statistical significance, with farm size (p< .001), quality feed (p< .001), market access (p< .001), and government support (p< .001) having strong effects. Pond management (p = .022) and water source (p =.041) had moderate but significant effects.
CONCLUSION: It proposes that Tilapia aquaculture could provide a scalable model for sustainable urban economies, which is useful for creating a framework of aquaculture in urban planning. Tilapia farming strengthens local food networks, enhances livelihoods, and promotes sustainable urban growth, making it a vital aspect of urban sustainability efforts in Phayao and other comparable locations.
 

Keywords

Sustainable aquaculture
Urban management
Tilapia farming, Economic, Social development, Phayao, Farm productivity
Market access
Subjects
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  • Receive Date 05 February 2025
  • Revise Date 20 April 2025
  • Accept Date 03 June 2025

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