7th International Conference on Vetiver (ICV-7) Commences in Chiang Mai, Thailand

The Seventh International Conference on Vetiver (ICV-7) was officially inaugurated on Monday, May 29, 2023, marking the beginning of a four-day event focused on the theme of Vetiver for Soil and Water Conservation in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

Organized by the Chaipattana Foundation and the Office of the Royal Development Projects Board (ORDPB), the conference aims to commemorate the invaluable contributions of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great in the global development and application of Vetiver Grass Technology.

The opening ceremony is to be held at an esteemed venue, graced by the presence of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, who presided over the ICV-7.

Several notable dignitaries and experts from around the world gathered to participate and address the event, including Jim Smyle, President and Chairman of the Vetiver Network International (TVNI), Dr Sumet Tantivejkul, Secretary-General of the Chaipattana Foundation and TVNI Board of Directors, and Pawat Navamaratna, Secretary-General of the Royal Development Projects Board (RDPB) and representative of the Chairman of the ICV-7 Organizing Committee.

The ceremony will commence with a welcoming address by Jim Smyle, highlighting the significance of Vetiver Grass Technology. Dr Sumet Tantivejkul will then deliver a special address. Pawat Navamaratna followed with his opening remarks, will express gratitude for the participants' presence and acknowledge the role of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great in advancing Vetiver Grass Technology.

One of the major highlights of the opening ceremony will be the announcement of award winners and the subsequent awarding ceremony. Dr Sumet Tantivejkul will reveal the recipients of the prestigious King of Thailand Vetiver Awards, recognizing individuals and organizations that have made outstanding contributions to the field.

Jim Smyle will then announce the TVNI Best VDO Awards 2022 winners and present the TVNI Awards to the deserving recipients. The judges of the awards will also be acknowledged with tokens of appreciation.

Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn will deliver an inaugural speech, underscoring the significance of Vetiver Grass Technology and its potential impact on soil and water conservation.

A video tribute to His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great, produced by PTT Co., Ltd., will be screened to honour his visionary leadership and the far-reaching influence of Vetiver Grass Technology in Thailand and worldwide.

Richard Grimshaw, the Founder of the Vetiver Network International (TVNI), will then pay tribute to His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great and then highlight his vision and leadership.

The conference will feature  a keynote speech by Dr Rattan Lal, the 2020 World Food Prize Laureate, who will share valuable insights on the topic of Vetiver Grass Technology and its implications for sustainable agriculture.

Additionally, Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn will virtually tour the exhibitions, including Poster Presentations and a Vetiver Handicraft Exhibition, further showcasing the diverse applications of vetiver grass.

Furthermore, the ICV-7 participants will be treated with a delectable lunch, followed by a tour of the exhibitions, which will showcase the implemented results of vetiver grass utilization based on the royal initiatives of 32 agencies. Participants will also have the opportunity to explore vetiver handicraft products and engage in vetiver handicraft training.

To foster the team spirit and provide networking opportunities, a welcome dinner will also be hosted at the esteemed Shiangri Hotel.