The Faculty of Technology, Khon Kaen University, led by Asst. Prof. Dr. Araya Chaoruangrit, Dean of the Faculty of Technology, and Prof. Dr. Alissara Reungsang, Associate Dean for Research and International Relations, along with a group of students, participated in an academic seminar titled “Sustainable Solid Waste Management.” The event was organized by the Office of Science, the Royal Society, under the Royal Society Lecture Series Project and the Global Systems and Environmental Science Think Tank Project for the fiscal year 2024. The seminar took place on March 18, 2025, at Room M3, Science Park, Khon Kaen University.
The seminar was officially opened by Emeritus Professor Dr. Surapol Issaragrisil, President of the Royal Society, with an opening report delivered by Emeritus Professor Dr. Savitree Limtong. The event aimed to inform participants about policies and development plans for sustainable solid waste management, covering government-level policies, local management strategies, private sector collaboration, and individual practices. It also served as a platform for exchanging knowledge and ideas on effective waste management practices that can be applied in daily life, while raising awareness of the global waste crisis.
Morning Session Highlights
The morning session began with a special lecture on “Plastic Waste Problems and Management Solutions” by Prof. Dr. Chongrak Polprasert, a member of the Royal Society’s Office of Science. This was followed by a panel discussion on “Strategies for Developing Sustainable Solid Waste Management Systems in Thailand,” featuring four distinguished speakers:
- Emeritus Professor Dr. Thares Srisatit – Advisor to the Environmental Engineering Association of Thailand and member of the National Environment Board.
- Mr. Tassanai Prachuabmon – Director of Public Health Promotion, Public Health and Environment Division, Khon Kaen Municipality.
- Dr. Kittiphan Taparugssanagorn – Senior Scientist, Occupational Safety Division, Department of Industrial Works.
- Dr. Saowalak Chareonpoj – Project Engineer, Pairoj Sompongpanich Co., Ltd.
The panel discussion was moderated by Prof. Dr. Alissara Reungsang, who also serves as a corresponding member of the Royal Society’s Office of Science. The speakers shared insights on developing sustainable waste management systems, addressing topics such as policy frameworks, waste management laws, local administration, and the role of the private sector in waste management.
Afternoon Session Highlights
In the afternoon, three key online lectures were delivered via Zoom Meeting:
- “Climate Change and the Plastic Waste Crisis: Global Challenges and Impacts on Thailand” by Dr. Atsamon Limsakul, Director of the Climate Change Adaptation Research Group, Department of Climate Change and Environment.
- “Carbon Footprints and Carbon Credits in Solid Waste Management Systems” by Asst. Prof. Dr. Awassada Phongphiphat, Environmental Researcher, Joint Graduate School of Energy and Environment, King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi.
- “Driving Eco-Friendly Products to Reduce Carbon Footprints and Plastic Waste in Thailand” by Ms. Roejarek Kanjanawarut, Manager of Circular Feedstock and Closed Loop.
Outcomes and Future Directions
The knowledge exchange during the seminar is expected to enable researchers, faculty members, and students from the Faculty of Technology to further develop innovative and efficient waste management solutions. These efforts not only contribute to the creation of new knowledge but also promote the practical application of research findings. This aligns with the faculty’s mission to develop and transfer appropriate technologies for the benefit of humanity and the environment.
The seminar not only raised awareness about the waste crisis but also fostered collaboration among various organizations. This collaboration is anticipated to drive the development of innovations and technologies for sustainable waste management in the future, in line with the Faculty of Technology’s vision to become a leading institution in applying knowledge and research innovations for sustainable societal development.
