At King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi (KMUTT), climate change is recognized as one of the most pressing challenges of our time. As a leading institution in higher education and research, KMUTT is dedicated to taking urgent action to combat climate change and mitigate its impacts. Our commitment to Sustainable Development Goal 13 (SDG 13) reflects our proactive approach to addressing environmental challenges, fostering sustainable practices, and contributing to the global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, adapt to climate impacts, and build climate resilience.
1. Integrating Sustainability into Education and Research
KMUTT is committed to fostering climate literacy through its educational programs. The university ensures that students and staff are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to understand and address the complexities of climate change. By integrating climate action into the curriculum, KMUTT empowers the next generation of leaders, scientists, engineers, and innovators to develop solutions that will drive climate resilience and sustainable development.
In 2024, KMUTT continues to prioritize climate-focused research. Our research centers and departments are actively engaged in projects that address various aspects of climate change, such as renewable energy, climate adaptation, environmental conservation, and carbon footprint reduction. By fostering innovation in sustainable technologies, green infrastructure, and clean energy, KMUTT is contributing to the development of climate solutions that can be applied locally and globally.
2. Transitioning to a Low-Carbon Campus
As part of our commitment to SDG 13, KMUTT has made significant strides in reducing our carbon footprint. The university has implemented a range of sustainability initiatives designed to reduce energy consumption, minimize waste, and promote eco-friendly practices across campus. One of the key areas of focus is energy efficiency—KMUTT has introduced energy-saving measures across all university buildings, including the installation of energy-efficient lighting, solar panels, and smart climate control systems.
In addition to reducing energy use, KMUTT is actively working to promote the adoption of renewable energy sources. The university has embraced solar energy as part of its broader strategy to transition to a low-carbon campus. By generating clean energy from solar panels and other renewable sources, KMUTT is reducing its reliance on fossil fuels and minimizing its environmental impact.
3. Green Campus Initiatives: Enhancing Sustainability at KMUTT
KMUTT has adopted a series of green campus initiatives aimed at promoting environmental sustainability and combatting climate change. These initiatives include:
- Sustainable Water Management: KMUTT has implemented systems to reduce water consumption across campus, such as water-saving fixtures and rainwater harvesting systems. These efforts help to conserve water resources and reduce the university’s impact on local ecosystems.
- Waste Reduction and Recycling: In line with the university’s waste management program, KMUTT has significantly reduced waste sent to landfills by promoting recycling and composting programs. The university encourages students, staff, and faculty to adopt zero-waste practices, aiming for a more sustainable and circular campus.
- Green Building Practices: KMUTT has invested in green building infrastructure that meets high environmental standards. Our campus features eco-friendly buildings that incorporate sustainable materials, natural ventilation, and energy-efficient designs.
- Biodiversity Conservation: KMUTT also focuses on promoting biodiversity through green spaces, including the development of ecological gardens, the planting of native trees, and the maintenance of green zones that help mitigate the urban heat island effect and support local wildlife.
4. Climate Change Awareness and Community Engagement
KMUTT actively engages in climate change education and raises awareness about the impacts of climate change within the university community and beyond. Through workshops, seminars, and awareness campaigns, KMUTT provides opportunities for students, staff, and faculty to learn about the science of climate change and the importance of sustainable practices.
The university also encourages community participation in climate action by organizing activities such as tree planting campaigns, climate walks, and sustainability fairs. These events not only promote environmental stewardship but also engage the wider KMUTT community in the fight against climate change.
5. Collaboration for Global Impact
As a leading institution, KMUTT collaborates with a wide range of local and global partners to further enhance its climate action efforts. We work with government agencies, NGOs, private sector partners, and international organizations to address the global climate crisis. Our research, policies, and initiatives are aligned with the Paris Agreement and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), ensuring that we contribute to global efforts to limit global warming and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
KMUTT’s participation in international climate networks and sustainability forums ensures that the university is not only contributing to national climate action but also engaging in global dialogue and cooperation to address climate change.
In 2024, KMUTT remains dedicated to taking urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts. Through education, research, sustainable practices, and community engagement, the university is empowering its students, staff, and the broader community to be agents of change in the fight against climate change.
By aligning our operations and initiatives with SDG 13, KMUTT is not only creating a sustainable campus but also contributing to the global efforts to build a climate-resilient future. We recognize the urgency of climate action and continue to strive for a future where sustainable development, environmental protection, and climate resilience are at the forefront of our collective efforts. KMUTT will continue to lead by example and inspire others to take meaningful action in the battle against climate change.
13.2 CARBON ENERGY USE
1. of low-carbon energy used
At King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi (KMUTT), the commitment to tackling climate change is not only demonstrated through our sustainability practices but also through cutting-edge research aimed at understanding and mitigating carbon emissions and greenhouse gases (GHGs). Our researchers have access to a broad array of tools, resources, and academic programs that empower them to pursue impactful studies on carbon footprint reduction and environmental sustainability.
Leading Research Schools in Climate Change and Sustainability
KMUTT is home to two prominent schools that play a crucial role in driving research on climate change and environmental sustainability: the School of Energy, Environment, and Materials (SEEM) and the Joint Graduate School of Energy and Environment (JGSEE). These schools are dedicated to advancing knowledge in environmental sciences, energy systems, and sustainable materials through research-driven innovation.
At the forefront of climate action, these schools focus on a wide range of topics, from the impacts of greenhouse gases on global warming to the development of sustainable technologies. The interdisciplinary nature of research within these schools allows for comprehensive studies on the connections between energy use, resource management, and carbon emissions.
Real-World Applications: Greenhouse Gas Emissions in Low-Income Housing
One notable example of KMUTT’s research focus is the study on greenhouse gas emissions from low-income housing construction in Thailand. This project utilizes Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) theory to calculate carbon emissions throughout the construction process. By examining each phase—from raw material extraction and transportation to the building’s construction and eventual demolition—researchers at KMUTT are able to quantify the environmental impact of housing development and propose solutions to minimize carbon footprints.
This research not only contributes to the academic field but also provides actionable insights for policy-makers, construction companies, and urban planners looking to develop sustainable housing solutions for Thailand’s growing population. The integration of LCA with real-world data enhances the practical relevance of the findings, ensuring that research outcomes can be used to improve environmental sustainability in the construction industry.
Advanced Tools for Carbon Footprint Calculation
KMUTT’s commitment to reducing its own carbon footprint is supported by the use of advanced tools and methodologies for carbon emission calculation. One of the primary resources utilized by KMUTT researchers is the Carbon Footprint Calculator Software (SimaPro). This powerful tool enables researchers to model and assess carbon emissions from a variety of activities, both on and off campus. Using SimaPro, they can calculate the total carbon emissions associated with university operations, from energy consumption to transportation, and identify key areas for reduction.
In addition, the university follows guidelines and methodologies provided by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and the Thailand Greenhouse Gas Management Organization (TGO). These global and national frameworks provide the necessary standards and best practices for calculating GHG emissions and ensuring consistency in reporting. The collaboration with these organizations ensures that KMUTT’s carbon footprint studies are aligned with international climate goals and adhere to the best scientific standards.
Carbon Footprint of KMUTT Campus Operations
KMUTT’s efforts to monitor and reduce its carbon footprint extend to various aspects of university operations. The university has conducted detailed assessments of the carbon emissions associated with activities on campus, focusing on two major sources: electricity consumption and transportation.
Electricity Consumption (Gate-to-Gate): As a large academic institution, electricity usage is one of the largest contributors to KMUTT’s carbon emissions. The energy consumed in buildings for lighting, heating, cooling, and electronic devices adds a significant amount of CO2 to the atmosphere. KMUTT is continuously working on reducing electricity consumption by adopting energy-efficient technologies, such as LED lighting, solar panels, and smart building systems that regulate energy use across campus.
Transportation Emissions: Transportation is another major source of carbon emissions at KMUTT. This includes emissions from shuttle buses, electric vehicles (EV-buses), private cars, and motorcycles used by students, staff, and visitors. In an effort to reduce emissions from this sector, KMUTT has introduced a range of sustainable transport options, including electric vehicles, bike-sharing programs, and the promotion of public transportation. Additionally, the university actively encourages carpooling and the use of electric vehicles to further reduce the carbon footprint associated with daily commuting.
Total Carbon Footprint Assessment
To provide a comprehensive overview of KMUTT’s environmental impact, a total carbon footprint assessment is conducted, combining data from both electricity usage and transportation emissions. This allows the university to track its progress toward sustainability goals and identify areas for further improvement. The results of these assessments guide the university’s climate action plans, which include strategies for carbon reduction, energy efficiency, and sustainable mobility.
Conclusion: Advancing Sustainability at KMUTT
As we enter 2024, KMUTT remains committed to advancing research on carbon emissions, greenhouse gases, and climate change through innovative academic programs and research initiatives. The university’s use of advanced tools and international guidelines ensures that our research efforts contribute to global climate goals and local environmental sustainability.
Through our efforts to measure and mitigate the carbon footprint of campus operations, KMUTT is not only providing solutions to address climate change but also setting an example for other institutions to follow. By empowering our students, staff, and researchers to become leaders in the fight against climate change, KMUTT is playing a vital role in creating a sustainable future for all.
Target: KMUTT’s Carbon Neutrality 2040
Current Status: In 2023, total GHG 15,890 tonCO2eq
KMUTT is committed to environmental leadership in all of our activities from operations, teaching, to conducting research. Our commitments are to be a Green University providing a role model on Energy, Environment, Safety Management Systems, promoting the application of all these activities within the university to encourage our students and colleagues to become change agents for helping the community and society have a better quality of life through the adoption of good energy, environment and safety management systems, and to strive for continual improvement in energy, environment and safety management systems to help achieve sustainability for all.
Carbon Management
Our low carbon vision “Our vision for the next decade is to become a world-leading university which will produce the next generation of global leaders in technology with a sound understanding of the principles of sustainable development and in particular the need for us to reduce our Carbon Dioxide emissions and those of other greenhouse gases.”
The Scope 3 emissions have been calculated as follows
– Electricity Usage Per Year
– Transportation Per Year (Bus, Car, Motorcycle)
– Open Space Area Per Total People
Carbon Footprint Per Year
Current Status: in 2023KMUTT Footprint Per Year is 16,376.6 Metric ton
Solar Porwer
Solar rooftop and solar floating energy in KMUTT campus have the potential growth. At the moment, On-Grid solar rooftop (337.12 kWp) is operated around campus which aim to reduce electricity usage from MEA during peak demand. At the earliest in 2020 university will start to install rooftop solar panels, especially at all building of KMUTT’s Bangmod campus, Bangkhuntien campus and KX Knowledge Xchange campus, which will conduct its planned to expand the installed capacity up to 2.6 MWp or 5 percentage of total electricity consumption.
15 sets of solar cell have been installed in KMUTT including
Biogas
Biogas is an aerobic digestion process where food wastes from KMUTT’s food center are broken down by micro-organisms inside a digester tank with absence of air . At the process, biogas is produced at 18 m3 per day. This methane-rich gas (biogas) is used to boil water for cooking and cleaning at cafeteria. Replace Liquefied petroleum gas with biogas helps cut fossil fuel usage (LPG) more than 9.1% and reduce greenhouse gas emissions within campus up to 4,970 kgCO2. In addition, remaining material (digestate) with rich in nutrients is used as a fertilizer using within campus.
Wind Power
Wind turbines convert the kinetic energy from the wind into mechanical power through blade. After that, this mechanical power would convert into electricity. At KMUTT Bangkhuntien campus, more than 4 Horizontal Axis Wind Turbines are install with installed capacity at 11.2 kWp. As a result, wind turbines help to reduce Greenhouse gas emission up to 1,027.71 kgCO2
Bioethanol Pilot plant
Hydropower
A conversion of energy from flowing water into electricity. At KMUTT Bangkhuntien campus, hydro turbine is installed at 4.6 kWp with annual energy saving at 18,834 KWh/year Most of research and feasibility study of small scale hydro turbine and hydropower usage are located at this campus. Furthermore, more than twenty hydro turbine are install in remote rural area around Thailand where they cannot access to electricity.
The following activities are provided for carbon management and reducing CO2 emission within KMUTT
Limit the use of private car or carpooling
Evidence linked: https://sustainable.kmutt.ac.th/transportation/transportation-policy-on-limiting-parking-space-on-campus/
Walk and bike society concept – campus support pedestrian paths and bike share service for students and staffs
Evidence linked:
https://sustainable.kmutt.ac.th/transportation/the-ratio-of-bicycles-found-towards-campus-population/
https://sustainable.kmutt.ac.th/transportation/bike-share-services/
Provide electric vehicle bus within campus
Evidence linked:
https://sustainable.kmutt.ac.th/transportation/campus-bus-services/
Renewable Energy Development and Energy Efficiency policies and Low–carbon policy
Evidence linked:
https://sustainable.kmutt.ac.th/energy-and-climate-change/energy-and-climate-change-policy/
Provide Green Master plan
Evidence linked:
https://sustainable.kmutt.ac.th/green-infrastructure/green-master-plan/
Carbon Footprint calculation and report
Evidence linked:
https://sustainable.kmutt.ac.th/energy–and–climate–change/climate–change–mitigation–and–reduction–of–ghgs–emission/
Renewable Energy Installation
At KMUTT, solar rooftop, solar floating, wind turbine, biogas and hydropower are minor electricity generation from renewable energy
Evidence linked:
https://sustainable.kmutt.ac.th/energy-and-climate-change/renewable-energy-usage/
https://sustainable.kmutt.ac.th/waste/organic-waste-treatment-garbage/
13.3 ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION MEASURES
1. Related information on our university providing local education programmer or campaigns on climate change risks, impacts, mitigation, adaptation, impact reduction and early warning.
At KMUTT, our researchers have access to a wide range of resources which allow them to achieve their research ambitions on carbon footprint and greenhouse gases emission topics. School of Energy, Environment and Materials and The Joint Graduate School of Energy and Environment are the main school of university where study on climate change and environmental sustainability. Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Low Income House Construction in Thailand is one example of greenhouse gases research study by applying Life Cycle Assessment theory to calculate carbon emission during construction process.
KMUTT has focus on integrated sustainable concept into curriculum, also provide scholarship for Energy and Environmental study with more than ten years. This contribute our students and staff understanding on the complex issue of sustainability which related to climate change adaptation and mitigation, energy conservation, renewable energy, waste management, water management and green transportation. By transforming our campuses to be an ideal environment, its developing awareness and innovative solutions to students. KMUTT provides a huge range of support for research staff, ranging from help finding funding, to career advice, to guidance for new principal investigators which related to 7 topics including with
(1) Bioeconomic
(2) Smart Manufacturing and Construction
(3) Sustainable Energy and Environment
(4) Sustainable Mobility
(5) Smart Healthcare
(6) Digital Transformation
(7) Innovative and Creative Learning Society.
Local education programmes on climate
1. Development of Thailand’s Air Pollutants and Greenhouse Gases (GHGs) Emission Inventory and Projection for Air Quality Simulations and Future Energy Related Emission Reduction Assessment (Phase VII)
This project aims to develop Thailand’s air pollutants and greenhouse gases (GHGs) emission inventory and projection for use in air quality models, in order to (1) assess air quality related issues at national and regional levels, in particular surface ozone and haze pollutions; (2) evaluate level and trends of key emission sources in Thailand against global and regional emission datasets; (3) document effective emission mitigation options to reduce ozone and haze pollution from energy related sectors over Thailand by developing future emissions under different future national energy demand scenarios; (4) evaluate cost-effectiveness or cost-benefit of emission mitigation options through source-receptor relationship analysis using air quality simulations outputs. The outputs and outcome of this project have been used by Pollution Control Department (PCD) to support air quality management policy measures formulation.
2. Estimation of Emission Reduction Potential of Air Pollutants from the Transportation Sector in Thailand
This study aims to better understand the situation of air pollution caused by the transportation sector in Thailand and to grasp an emission reduction potential by introducing emission mitigation measures such as Euro 5/6 in the country. Study results are to be submitted to the Ministry of the Environment of Japan as one of discussion items between the Government of Japan and the Government of Thailand in the environmental management field.
3. Precipitation Modeling in Greater Bangkok with Impact of Urbanized Land Cover and Air Oollution using WRF-Chem-UCM-GBK
This study prepared and configured WRF–Chem–UCM–GBK, a modeling system for advanced precipitation modeling in Greater Bangkok. It incorporates updated land–related data and urban parameters from our previous studies, and the latter supports the use of Single-Layer Urban Canopy Model. For emission data, they include a local inventory for GBK and a global inventory for areas outside GBK. Biogenic and fire emissions were also computed using available WRF-Chem processors. Three precipitation events selected for modeling are a general event in the summer (EV1), a general event in the wet season (EV2), and a heavy event in the wet season (EV3). Two double–nested domains at 10–km and 2–km resolutions and a set of physics and chemistry options were employed. Observation data from a network of stations and satellite-based precipitation data were used to evaluate model performance. For EV1, characterized by frontal precipitation over one single day, the model fails to produce precipitation over GBK due possibly to inability to capture frontal passage temporally. For EV2 and EV3, overall the model performs fairly. Due to the poor model performance in EV1, no reliable assessment can be made for the effects of urban physics and emissions for this event. Turned–off urban physics alone for EV2 tends to give more precipitation within and around GBK systematically partly because moisture is more easily transported to urban perimeters due to less surface roughness and no anthropogenic heat and heat storage by infrastructure are present to enhance convection within GBK. For EV3, abundant moisture dominantly regulates precipitation processes, precipitation difference then becomes less systematic. Turned–off emissions alone in EV2 tends to produce more precipitation within and around GBK, attributed partly to less aerosols to compete for available moisture and in turn large cloud droplets are more viable. But EV3 has less precipitation within GBK due partly to less aerosols to take up moisture to form clouds under the abundant moisture condition. Both turned–off urban physics and emissions appears to give the synergetic effects. These findings directly suggest the effects to be dependent on the type of precipitation event. In the end, a number of recommendations for future work are given.
4. Bilateral Cooperation Between Japan and Thailand on Air Quality Improvement for Thailand
This report aims to synthesize the processes and outputs/outcomes from the bilateral cooperation between Japan and Thailand on air quality improvement for Thailand, based on the results and achievements of the 2- year project entitled the Japan-Thailand Clean Air Partnership (JTCAP) Phase I, conducted during the Japanese fiscal years 2018 and 2019.
2. Related information on our university having a university Climate Action plan, shared with local government and/or local community group.
King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi has the intention to develop students to graduate with skills in the profession along with morality and to create opportunities for students and personnel to return knowledge, research, along with collaborative operational plans back to the community. Regarding the management system for energy, environment, occupational safety and health for society through the university project with communities and society, causing students and personnel to have activities for learning outside the classroom with the government sector, communities, and private sector. The system is also honing students and personnel to live a generosity life as well as to learn different ways of life in different societies that may not be available in the campus.
Therefore, higher educational institutions, have had to perform great adjustments in the terms of instruction, research, and academic service to be consistent with the changing contexts by adopting operational mechanisms through the University and Community Project which enables the development of KMUTT’s students to form their complete humanity, the capability of teamwork, high flexibility, and high quality of graduate who could be relied upon by socials by supporting the students and personnel to be qualified as lifelong learners through the Social Lab conducted in the area around KMUTT and the expanded area of KMUTT Bang Khun Thian and KMUTT Ratchaburi including the areas in the Royal Project and Royal Thought Project. KMUTT places importance on building the leaders of change through consecutive operational mechanisms or long-term embedded operations to improve the capabilities of its personnel and graduates to be equipped with understanding, accessibility, and in-depth experiences in fieldworks resulting in social engagement and individual passion to form a part of the utilization of sciences and technologies to solve social issues and to be lifelong learners within the current contexts of which the changes are rapidly and severely emerge.
3. Related information on our university on participating in co-operative planning for climate change disasters, working with government.
In 2024, there were 8 KMUTT personnel supporting planning for climate change disasters working with government
| Name | Surname | Ministry / Organization | Title |
| สันติ SANTI | เจริญพรพัฒนา CHAROENPORNPATTANA | กระทรวงการอุดมศึกษา วิทยาศาสตร์ วิจัยและนวัตกรรมอุดมศึกษา วิทยาศาสตร์ วิจัย และนวัตกรรม Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation | คณะอนุกรรมการ subcommittee |
| สำนักงานคณะกรรมการส่งเสริมวิทยาศาสตร์ วิจัยและนวัตกรรม(สกสว.) Thailand Science Research and Innovation | คณะที่ปรึกษา Advisor | ||
| กัญญวิมว์ KANYAWIM | กีรติกร KIRTIKARA | สำนักงานสภานโยบายการอุดมศึกษา วิทยาศาสตร์ วิจัยและนวัตกรรมแห่งชาติ (สอวช.) Office of National Higher Education Science Research and Innovation Policy Council | รักษาการผู้อำนวยการหน่วยบริหารและจัดการทุนด้านการพัฒนากำลังคน และทุนด้านการพัฒนาสถาบันอุดมศึกษา การวิจัยและการสร้างนวัตกรรม (บพค.) สอวช. Director, Program Management Unit |
| ธีรณี TIRANEE | อจลากุล ACHALAKUL | สถาบันส่งเสริมการวิเคราะห์และบริหารข้อมูลขนาดใหญ่ภาครัฐ Government Big Data Institute | ผู้อำนวยการสถาบันส่งเสริมการวิเคราะห์และบริหารข้อมูลขนาดใหญ่ภาครัฐ กระทรวงดิจิทัลเพื่อเศรษฐกิจและสังคม Director of the Institute for the Promotion of Big Data Analysis and Management, Government Sector Ministry of Digital Economy and Society |
| บัณฑิต BUNDIT | ทิพากร THIPAKORN | กระทรวงศึกษาธิการ Ministry of Education | ช่วยราชการกระทรวงศึกษาธิการ Assistant to Ministry of Education |
| ประเสริฐ PRASERT | คันธมานนท์ KANTHAMANON | กระทรวงศึกษาธิการ Ministry of Education | ช่วยราชการกระทรวงศึกษาธิการ Assistant to Ministry of Education |
| พงศ์พันธ์ PONGPAN | แก้วตาทิพย์ KAEWTATIP | สำนักงานคณะกรรมการส่งเสริมวิทยาศาสตร์ วิจัยและนวัตกรรม Thailand Science Research and Innovation | ผู้อำนวยการกลุ่มภารกิจพัฒนาระบบและเครือข่ายวิทยาศาสตร์ วิจัยและนวัตกรรม Director |
| วิทูร VITOON | อุทัยแสงสุข UTHAISANGSUK | สำนักงานพัฒนาวิทยาศาสตร์และเทคโนโลยีแห่งชาติ(สวทช.) National Science and Technology Development Agency | ผู้ช่วยผู้อำนวยการหลักสูตรโครงการ TAIST-Tokyo Tech Assistant Director TAIST-Tokyo Tech Project |
| เชาวลิต CHAOWALIT | ลิ้มมณีวิจิตร LIMMANEEVICHITR | Office of Natural Resources and Environmental Policy and Planning, Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment | Expert committee to perform duties in considering environmental impact assessment reports |
| ณัฐพงษ์ Nattapong | ชยวัฑโฒ Chayawatto | สภานโยบายการอุดมศึกษาวิทยาศาสตร์ วิจัยและนวัตกรรมแห่งชาติ (สอวช.) Office of National Higher Education Science Research and Innovation Policy Council (NXPO) | อนุกรรมการผู้เชี่ยวชาญนโยบายอาวุโส Specialist |
| อุษา Usa | ฮัมฟรี่ Humphries | กระทรวงทรัพยากรธรรมชาติและสิ่งแวดล้อม Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment | คณะทำงาน Working Group |
4. Related information on our university on informing and supporting local or regional government in local climate change disaster/risk early warning and monitoring.
Carbon Neutrality or Net Zero carbon emissions is one of the problem-solving models for the current seriousness of the climate change situation. A lot of organizations in many countries are increasingly aware of and have started making mitigation plans to tackle this severe problem. King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi (KMUTT) as an educational institution responsible for disseminating new knowledge to society and taking part in driving the country’s policies, has prepared to deal with the global climate change resolving policy which is relevant to one of the KMUTT’s sustainability strategies. KMUTT also aims to be a part of an important movement that contributes to Thailand’s achievement in Carbon Neutrality Goals by the year 2050 according to the declaration of intent ‘KMUTT Carbon Neutrality 2040’ announced on November 2, 2021.
According to the study results and the collected data based on different scenarios of KMUTT policies on carbon dioxide emissions in 2019 (base year), KMUTT released about 16,720 tons of carbon dioxide, both direct and indirect emissions, resulting from the organization of various activities in all 4 campuses including KMUTT Bangmod, KMUTT Bang Khun Thian, KMUTT Ratchaburi, and KX Building (KX). The highest proportion of KMUTT carbon dioxide emissions is from electrical use which accounted for 94% of total emissions. KMUTT has launched its action plans for implementing the carbon dioxide emission measures to achieve its Carbon Neutrality goals by 2040. Those measures include the improvement of Energy Efficiency in all buildings by managing the electrical usage, developing smart building integration with the Renewable Energy and Energy Storage System which will lead to the Net Zero Energy Buildings, developing the District Cooling System and the “So Cool” Project for decreasing the temperature inside KMUTT by 1-2 degree Celsius, producing electricity from Renewable Energy by installing Solar PV panels on all potential building rooftops, changing KMUTT cars and buses to EV, conducting the Zero Waste Projects to reduce the amount of waste sent out for disposal through refusing to use single-use plastic measures, 3R measures, producing Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) from waste and applying Circular Economy concepts.
The university alerted the PM 2.5 situation to students, personnel, and communities nearby the university. Regarding the amount of PM 2.5 which exceeded the standard value (50 mg / m3), which was in the level that begins to affect health.
programes Inform and support government
1.Development of Thailand’s Air Pollutants and Greenhouse Gases (GHGs) Emission Inventory and Projection for Air Quality Simulations and Future Energy Related Emission Reduction Assessment (PhaseVII)
This project aims to develop Thailand’s air pollutants and greenhouse gases (GHGs) emission inventory and projection for use in air quality models, in order to (1) assess air quality related issues at national and regional levels, in particular surface ozone and haze pollutions; (2) evaluate level and trends of key emission sources in Thailand against global and regional emission datasets; (3) document effective emission mitigation options to reduce ozone and haze pollution from energy related sectors over Thailand by developing future emissions under different future national energy demand scenarios; (4) evaluate cost-effectiveness or cost-benefit of emission mitigation options through source-receptor relationship analysis using air quality simulations outputs. The outputs and outcome of this project have been used by Pollution Control Department (PCD) to support air quality management policy measures formulation.
2. Estimation of Emission Reduction Potential of Air Pollutants from the Transportation Sector in Thailand
This study aims to better understand the situation of air pollution caused by the transportation sector in Thailand and to grasp an emission reduction potential by introducing emission mitigation measures such as Euro 5/6 in the country. Study results are to be submitted to the Ministry of the Environment of Japan as one of discussion items between the Government of Japan and the Government of Thailand in the environmental management field.
3. Precipitation Modeling in Greater Bangkok with Impact of Urbanized Land Cover and Air Oollution using WRF-Chem-UCM-GBK
This study prepared and configured WRF–Chem–UCM–GBK, a modeling system for advanced precipitation modeling in Greater Bangkok. It incorporates updated land–related data and urban parameters from our previous studies, and the latter supports the use of Single-Layer Urban Canopy Model. For emission data, they include a local inventory for GBK and a global inventory for areas outside GBK. Biogenic and fire emissions were also computed using available WRF-Chem processors. Three precipitation events selected for modeling are a general event in the summer (EV1), a general event in the wet season (EV2), and a heavy event in the wet season (EV3). Two double–nested domains at 10–km and 2–km resolutions and a set of physics and chemistry options were employed. Observation data from a network of stations and satellite-based precipitation data were used to evaluate model performance. For EV1, characterized by frontal precipitation over one single day, the model fails to produce precipitation over GBK due possibly to inability to capture frontal passage temporally. For EV2 and EV3, overall the model performs fairly. Due to the poor model performance in EV1, no reliable assessment can be made for the effects of urban physics and emissions for this event. Turned–off urban physics alone for EV2 tends to give more precipitation within and around GBK systematically partly because moisture is more easily transported to urban perimeters due to less surface roughness and no anthropogenic heat and heat storage by infrastructure are present to enhance convection within GBK. For EV3, abundant moisture dominantly regulates precipitation processes, precipitation difference then becomes less systematic. Turned–off emissions alone in EV2 tends to produce more precipitation within and around GBK, attributed partly to less aerosols to compete for available moisture and in turn large cloud droplets are more viable. But EV3 has less precipitation within GBK due partly to less aerosols to take up moisture to form clouds under the abundant moisture condition. Both turned–off urban physics and emissions appears to give the synergetic effects. These findings directly suggest the effects to be dependent on the type of precipitation event. In the end, a number of recommendations for future work are given.
4. Bilateral Cooperation Between Japan and Thailand on Air Quality Improvement for Thailand This report aims to synthesize the processes and outputs/outcomes from the bilateral cooperation between Japan and Thailand on air quality improvement for Thailand, based on the results and achievements of the 2- year project entitled the Japan-Thailand Clean Air Partnership (JTCAP) Phase I, conducted during the Japanese fiscal years 2018 and 2019
5. Related information on our university on collaboration with NGOs on climate adaptation.
King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi (KMUTT) stands as one of Thailand’s leading institutions, recognized globally for its excellence in research, innovation, and education. KMUTT’s dedication to advancing science and technology is reflected in its impressive performance in international rankings and its continuous efforts to serve both the academic and industrial communities.
Global Recognition and Academic Excellence
KMUTT has earned a prestigious spot in global rankings, including THE World University Rankings, where it has been consistently recognized as one of the world’s top universities. From 2012 to the present, KMUTT has been ranked in the top 400 universities worldwide for three consecutive years. This recognition underscores the university’s commitment to research excellence and its standing as a leader in engineering and technology. KMUTT’s Engineering and Technology program was also ranked first in Thailand for two consecutive years in 2018 and 2019.
Furthermore, KMUTT consistently ranks among the top 10 universities in Thailand, affirming its status as a leading academic institution dedicated to providing world-class education and conducting high-impact research. These rankings highlight the strength of KMUTT’s academic offerings and its contributions to global knowledge and innovation.
Social Impact Through Knowledge and Technology Transfer
KMUTT places a strong emphasis on knowledge and technology transfer to the wider community, ensuring that its research not only benefits the academic world but also directly addresses the needs of society, industry, and government. Since 1982, KMUTT has led “University to Community and Society” projects, which aim to solve local and national problems through collaborative research and development.
These projects are designed to serve the needs of the community, and the results are applied in real-world scenarios, positively impacting social, environmental, and economic development. The university works with various external partners, including government agencies, NGOs, and private sector organizations, to create tangible benefits for society through technology solutions and innovative research.
Social Labs: Learning for Development
One of KMUTT’s most unique initiatives is the use of Social Labs, where the community and society act as classrooms. These social labs serve as living laboratories where students and faculty engage in problem-solving activities that address societal challenges. By participating in volunteering activities, KMUTT’s students gain practical experience while contributing to the development of the local and national communities. At the same time, these social labs allow students to apply their academic knowledge in real-life situations, thus enhancing their learning experience and fostering their personal growth.
Research, Innovation, and Collaboration with Industry
KMUTT’s commitment to high-impact research is not limited to academic discovery; it is aimed at creating solutions that address the needs of government, industry, and society. The university’s Research, Innovation, and Partnership Office plays a pivotal role in managing and supporting research initiatives. The office oversees the establishment of research clusters, laboratories, and partnerships that drive forward innovation across diverse fields. It is also responsible for bringing in distinguished visiting professors, post-doctoral researchers, and other experts to enrich KMUTT’s academic environment and strengthen its global network.
KMUTT’s research efforts are supported by state-of-the-art facilities and advanced research equipment, all of which contribute to the university’s mission to produce groundbreaking research. To ensure the quality of research and foster collaboration across disciplines, KMUTT has established the International Research Advisory Panel (IRAP). This panel provides guidance and expertise aimed at enhancing the quality of research and promoting global partnerships.
Industry Partnerships and Talent Mobility
KMUTT recognizes the importance of fostering strong connections with the industrial sector to ensure that its research addresses the practical needs of the economy. The university has established 67 partnerships with both existing and new businesses, including prominent companies such as Betagro Public Company Limited, IRPC Public Company Limited, and Siam Cement Public Company Limited. These collaborations facilitate joint research initiatives, technology transfer, and the development of innovative solutions that can be applied to real-world challenges.
The Talent Mobility Project is another initiative that bridges the gap between academia and industry. Through this program, KMUTT encourages its researchers to work directly with enterprises to align research projects with industry needs. The project not only provides valuable research opportunities for students and faculty but also ensures that KMUTT’s research remains relevant and impactful, leading to the commercialization of products and technologies that can drive economic growth and societal development.
Fostering Entrepreneurship and Innovation
KMUTT is also committed to promoting entrepreneurial thinking among its students. The Hatch Center, a key initiative of the university, is dedicated to nurturing entrepreneurial skills and supporting students who wish to transform their ideas into viable businesses. The center organizes business incubation programs, entrepreneurial workshops, and training sessions, helping students develop the necessary skills to launch their own startups. Through these initiatives, KMUTT encourages students to engage in innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship, creating a new generation of leaders who can drive economic and social change.
KMUTT stands at the forefront of research, innovation, and industry collaboration in Thailand, with a clear commitment to addressing global challenges such as climate change, sustainable development, and economic growth. Through its ongoing efforts in knowledge transfer, partnerships, and entrepreneurship, KMUTT continues to shape the future by fostering innovation that not only benefits academia but also contributes to the economic development and social progress of Thailand and beyond.
As we move further into 2024, KMUTT remains dedicated to maintaining its position as a leader in higher education, research, and industry collaboration, continuously striving to produce innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of society and industry.
13.4 COMMITMENT TO CARBON NEUTRAL UNIVERSITY
1. Related information on our university have a target date by which it will become carbon neutral according to the Greenhouse Gas Protocols
Declaration of Intent ‘KMUTT’s Race to Carbon Neutrality by 2040’
Climate change is one of the greatest challenges we are facing nowadays. Together with many countries around the world, Thailand has joined the Paris Agreement and put forward its best efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to combat climate change. With the strong intention of Thailand to become a low carbon and climate resilient society, Prime Minister announced at the 2021 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26) in Glasgow, Scotland, on November 1st, 2021, Thailand’s commitment to reach Carbon Neutrality by 2050 and to reduce all greenhouse gas emissions to net zero by 2065.
KMUTT has a clear policy to strive to become a Sustainable University based on the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy and the UN Sustainable Development Goals. One of the important goals of KMUTT Sustainability strategy is to reduce its carbon emissions to net zero emissions by 2040 under the “KMUTT’s Race to Carbon Neutrality by 2040” initiative through the increased use of renewable energy, enhancement of energy efficiency in building and transport, efficient use of resource and recycle and forest carbon sequestration. The committee and working group to drive KMUTT to net zero carbon emissions, appointed as a special taskforce for this initiative, now develop strategic and action plans as well as monitor and evaluate the plans to reach the expected targets. The working team will promote, support, and coordinate with all internal units and communities around KMUTT for their participation and cooperation, both in planning and implementation stage.
“KMUTT’s Race to Carbon Neutrality by 2040” will be a new strategic goal for KMUTT sustainability which is integrated with the other five key strategic goals including student engagement, research and innovation impact, community engagement, green university and infrastructure, and sustainable management. Carbon Neutrality will become a part of our working style and organizational culture. Everybody will have an understanding and awareness of the climate change and its impact and be willing to help mitigate it.
With the clear intention to move the organization forward to net zero carbon emissions, KMUTT has been invited to be a founding member of RE100 Thailand Club initiated by the Federation of Thai Industries. KMUTT has also joined Thailand Carbon Neutral Network, founded by Thailand Greenhouse Gas Management Organization and the global campaign “Race To Zero”, which emphasize that, as an educational institution, we are ready to commit to the public both in national and international networks that all the KMUTT campuses are trying to achieve net zero carbon emissions at the organizational level.
Additional evidence link:
