The University of Phayao recently hosted the inaugural meeting of the Sustainable University Network of Thailand (SUN Thailand) Working Group on Carbon Neutrality for 2024. The event was held on November 28th and 29th, 2024, at the Mueang Phayao Conference Room, ICT Building, and the Plant Genetic Conservation Project under the Royal Initiative of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn (RSPG) Conference Room at the University of Phayao.
On Thursday, November 28th, 2024, Associate Professor Dr. Supakorn Pongbangpho, the President of the University of Phayao, delegated Associate Professor Suwit Panyawong, Vice President for Environment and Landscape, to welcome attendees. He emphasized the importance of collaboration in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and fostering sustainability in higher education institutions. Key activities included panel discussions and knowledge-sharing sessions on crucial topics related to greenhouse gas management, featuring distinguished speakers from the University of Phayao:
1. Operations of the Greenhouse Gas Management Certification Unit at the University of Phayao
Speaker: Associate Professor Dr. Torpong Kreetachat, Dean of the School of Energy and Environment, University of Phayao.
2. Techniques to Achieve Greenhouse Gas Emission and Absorption Assessment Goals in Universities: A Case Study of the University of Phayao
Speaker: Assistant Professor Dr. Nathiya Kreetachat, Lecturer in Environmental Engineering, University of Phayao.
3. Pathways to Net Zero at the University of Phayao
Speaker: Dr. Surat Sedpho, Associate Dean for Student Potential Developm, School of Energy and Environment, University of Phayao.
4. Panel Discussion: Challenges, Barriers, and Successes in Assessing Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Absorption in UniversitiesPanelists:
o Associate Professor Suwit Panyawong
o Assistant Professor Dr. Dr.Nathiya Kreetachat
o Dr. Surat Sedpho
The University of Phayao, situated on a picturesque campus spanning over 5,118 acres, follows a sustainable policy that allocates 25% of its land for buildings and reserves 75% for forests and water bodies. This approach greatly enhances its carbon absorption capabilities. The university has also taken steps towards clean energy by implementing solar and wind energy systems, introducing electric public transportation, and imposing restrictions on motorcycle traffic within the campus.
Furthermore, the university prioritizes environmental policies and climate change mitigation, striving to lead in greenhouse gas management and achieve carbon neutrality through knowledge and innovation. This commitment aligns with its goal to become a globally recognized green university.
This meeting aims to facilitate the exchange of knowledge and the development of strategies to drive universities towards Carbon Neutrality. Representatives from more than 23 universities across the country are participating. The University of Phayao is dedicated to achieving Carbon Neutrality by 2050, setting an example and inspiring other institutions in the Sustainable University Network of Thailand to implement sustainability policies and collaborate towards common goals.