In our efforts to push fowards sustainable gastronomy in the South of Thailand, The IKI-SCP Phase II project has collaborated with InterContinental Phuket Rersort and the Alternative Agriculture Network (AAN) to source local invasive species from provinces in the South of Thailand. These ingredients range from fruit type flowering plants like Garcinias, to flowers like Red Ginger Lilies. Once sourced the produce are used in the Hotel's high end resturants, including Jaras for some menu items. 

These efforts not only support local communities through increase income, but is also a way to promote local ingredients of the South, showcasing how unique and special these ingredients can be given the right treatment. 

Many of these invasive species are not not assosiated with high end dining. But through this collaboration, these sustainably sourced ingredients are uplifted. 

The importance of sourcing invasive species specifically is that they are a threat to sustainable agriculture and can harm ecosystems. This is because if not managed they are capable of causing the extinction of some native species, reducing biodiversity as a result, while also affecting local communitiies and animals who depend on these native species. Management of invasive species at times invovle the use of agrochemicals, which are harmful to the environment. This collaboration is therefore a unique way to sustainably remove and control these invasive plants species, while also and make use of them reducing agricultural waste.