On November 18, 2024, Khon Kaen University took a bold step towards sustainability with the launch of “Food Waste Heroes: Empowering Insects.” Spearheaded by the Division of Enterprise and Societal Sustainability and the Division of Physical Ecosystem and Environment, this initiative is part of the university’s ambitious Zero Food Waste project. The event was inaugurated by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Charnchai Panthongviriyakul, President of Khon Kaen University, with key insights shared by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Choopong Thongkamsamut, Vice President for Physical Ecosystem and Environment, and Prof. Dr. Thidarut Boonmars, Vice President for Enterprise and Societal Sustainability.
The event, held at the bustling activity area of the Food and Service Center, drew a large crowd of enthusiastic staff and students. “Food Waste Heroes” is a collaborative effort involving various faculties and departments, aiming to transform food waste into a resource for protein insect production, thereby reducing the university’s daily food waste of over 600 kilograms. The project uses protein insects (Black Soldier Fly) as a key driver, starting at the university and expanding to the surrounding community and society, eventually reaching the global community.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Charnchai Panthongviriyakul highlighted the global urgency of addressing food waste, which contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions and global warming. By integrating efforts across the university, Khon Kaen University is turning food waste into a valuable resource for research and sustainability, aligning with the principles of a circular economy and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The project features engaging activities, including training on food waste sorting and collection for students, staff, and food vendors. The waste is repurposed as food for protein insects, with the Faculty of Agriculture leading the production and processing efforts. Participants also learn to utilize protein insects and their by-products, offering economic benefits to local farmers and university staff.
Adding a creative twist, the “Every Bite Counts” campaign encourages the university community to share photos or clips of empty plates and innovative meal ideas using leftovers, with hashtags like #EveryBiteCounts and #FoodWasteHeroes. Participants receive a mini power bank as a token of appreciation.
Ms. Pornthiwa Masudee, a procurement officer at the Health Service Center, The Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, an event participant, praised the initiative, saying, “It’s inspiring to be part of an organization that values sustainability. This project not only reduces food waste but also fosters a culture of environmental responsibility.”
Khon Kaen University’s “Food Waste Heroes” is a shining example of how educational institutions can lead the way in sustainability, starting on campus and expanding to the global community.