MTEC https://www.mtec.or.th/en/ National Metal and Materials Technology Center Thu, 12 Mar 2026 04:54:42 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 https://www.mtec.or.th/en/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/favicon.ico MTEC https://www.mtec.or.th/en/ 32 32 MTEC, NSTDA Hosted an Online Seminar on Success Cases of Reusable and Refillable Packaging Systems from Thailand and ASEAN countries https://www.mtec.or.th/en/mtec-nstda-hosted-an-online-seminar/ Thu, 12 Mar 2026 04:46:28 +0000 https://www.mtec.or.th/en/?p=28385 On 19 February 2026, the National Metal and Materials Technology Center (MTEC), under the National ... Read more

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On 19 February 2026, the National Metal and Materials Technology Center (MTEC), under the National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), with support from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), organized an online seminar titled “Success Cases of Reusable and Refillable Packaging Systems from Thailand and ASEAN countries .”

The seminar aimed to promote knowledge exchange and showcase practical initiatives on reusable and refillable packaging systems across ASEAN countries   while strengthening capacity development for reuse systems in Thailand. The event highlighted upstream solutions that demonstrate the environmental and economic benefits of reusable and returnable packaging models.

The seminar was officially opened by Ms. Hiroko Matsuo, Programme Management Officer from UNEP, followed by welcoming remarks from Dr.Asira Fuongfuchat, Deputy Executive Director of MTEC. Key presentations included Mr. Rahyang Nusantara from Dietplastik Indonesia, who discussed reuse systems as upstream solutions, and Mr. Shingo Yoshizumi, CEO of Kaman Corporation, Japan, who shared experiences on a reusable takeaway container-sharing service.

The event also included panel discussions on refill systems for personal and home care products, as well as returnable packaging for food and beverage services. Experts from Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Australia, and Vietnam have shared their views as well as their experiences with implementing reuse systems across the region.

In addition, Thai case studies were presented by EcoCrew, Delifill, and the Environmental Justice Foundation (EJF), highlighting practical reuse and refill initiatives in Thailand. The seminar also included a presentation by Ms. Jaya Raizada from the Ellen MacArthur Foundation on advancing global reuse systems.

The seminar attracted 162 participants from 101 organizations across 11 countries, providing an important platform for knowledge exchange, regional collaboration, and the promotion of circular economy solutions to reduce plastic pollution in ASEAN countries.

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MTEC, NSTDA Hosted “MTEC Global Partnership Dialogue EP.3: Bridging Clean Water and Sanitation Research — A Fireside Talk between MTEC and the Global Water and Sanitation Center (GWSC)” https://www.mtec.or.th/en/mtec-nstda-hosted-mtec-global-partnership-dialogue-ep-3/ Fri, 27 Feb 2026 07:33:48 +0000 https://www.mtec.or.th/en/?p=28275 Asian Institute of Technology, Pathum Thani – 25 February 2026 — The National Metal and ... Read more

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Asian Institute of Technology, Pathum Thani – 25 February 2026 — The National Metal and Materials Technology Center (MTEC) hosted the third installment of its “MTEC Global Partnership Dialogue” series. Building on the success of the previous sessions held in December 2025 and January 2026, this episode focused on bridging research in clean water and sanitation through a collaborative fireside talk with the Global Water and Sanitation Center (GWSC).

The event brought together approximately 40 researchers and experts to exchange insights, strengthen institutional ties, and explore joint initiatives to address global water challenges. Key objectives included fostering academic exchange, sharing technological innovations, and expanding partnerships aimed at translating scientific discoveries into tangible real-world impact.

The program began with welcome remarks by Prof. Thammarat Koottatep, Co-Director of GWSC, followed by an overview of GWSC’s recent achievements and research directions presented by Mr. Agus Nugroho, Chief Operating Officer of GWSC.

The highlight of the event was an engaging fireside talk session featuring interdisciplinary experts working at the forefront of water and sanitation research:

  • Dr. Mohana S. Shanmugam, Assistant Professor, Water Engineering and Management (WEM), AIT
  • Dr. Tatchai Pussayanavin, GWSC Researcher
  • Ms. Kesirin Jinda, GWSC Research Associate
  • Dr. Samerkhae Jongthammanurak, Research Team Leader, SMARTest Team (SMAT), MTEC

The session was moderated by Dr. Bralee Chayasombat, Research Team Leader of the Material-System-Environment Research Team at MTEC.

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MTEC–NSTDA and DPIM Jointly Organize Seminar entitled “Advancing Thai Industries Toward the Circular Economy with Recycle/Upcycle Innovation and Technology” to Promote Sustainable Technology Adoption Among Industrialists https://www.mtec.or.th/en/mtec-recycling-upcycling/ Tue, 24 Feb 2026 08:02:30 +0000 https://www.mtec.or.th/en/?p=27859 October 22, 2025 Phra Wisanu Room, 3rd Floor, Asawin Grand Convention Hotel, Bangkok The National ... Read more

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October 22, 2025

Phra Wisanu Room, 3rd Floor, Asawin Grand Convention Hotel, Bangkok

The National Metal and Materials Technology Center (MTEC), an entity of the National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), hosted the seminar “Advancing Thai Industries Toward the Circular Economy with Recycle/Upcycle Innovation and Technology” in collaboration with the Department of Primary Industries and Mines (DPIM). The event was conducted to support a project aimed at strengthening industrial capabilities to engage with circular-economy markets through innovative technology. It attracted significant interest from entrepreneurs, government officials, and researchers, resulting in substantial attendance.

Dr. Kittipan Bangyikhan, Director of the Raw Materials Innovation and Downstream Industries Division, DPIM, stated that DPIM maintains a strong emphasis on the efficient development and utilization of resources, particularly by advancing the use of technology in managing industrial waste, enhancing the effective reuse of residual materials, and developing technologies that increase the economic value of raw materials. These efforts are aligned with the government’s current BCG (Bio-Circular-Green Economy) industrial policy. He noted that these initiatives are strongly supported by the National Metal and Materials Technology Center (MTEC), NSTDA, as well as by entrepreneurs who shared knowledge and presented practical approaches. Their contributions are instrumental in establishing a collaborative network among government agencies, researchers, and the private sector to drive Thai industries toward sustainability under the circular economy framework.

Dr. Sitthisuntorn Supothina, Deputy Director of the National Metal and Materials Technology Center (MTEC), emphasized that MTEC–NSTDA is committed to advancing Thailand’s industrial sector toward a tangible shift to the Circular Economy. This is achieved through the utilization of science, technology, and materials innovation to improve manufacturing and add value to industrial byproducts, rendering them reusable in line with the principles of Recycling and Upcycling. These initiatives aim to assist industrialists in mitigating environmental impact, enhancing production efficiency, and strengthening the nation’s overall competitiveness.

Ms. Araya Salaipetch, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Primary Industries and Mines (DPIM), presided over the seminar’s opening and presented certificates to entrepreneurs participating in the project to develop and enhance industrial capabilities, fostering stronger links to circular-economy markets through innovation and technology. During the address, Ms. Araya congratulated the participants. She expressed her appreciation to partner organizations, notably the National Metal and Materials Technology Center (MTEC) and the National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), for their sustained collaboration in advancing the project. She noted that these joint efforts play an essential role in assisting Thai industrial entrepreneurs to adapt and sustainably strengthen their competitiveness.

The seminar also featured a presentation on the project’s outcomes, focusing on developing and enhancing industrial establishments to connect with circular-economy markets through innovation and technology. Dr. Anucha Wannagon, Director of the Ceramics and Construction Materials Research Group at MTEC–NSTDA and Project Leader, delivered an overview that summarized the project’s implementation and key achievements.

Furthermore, the seminar featured case studies presented by entrepreneurs participating in the project, showcasing practical applications of circular technologies within the industrial sector. Specific instances were demonstrated, including:

  • Thai Fine Sinter Co., Ltd.: “Recycling Metal Powder Parts: Turning Waste into New Opportunities.”
  • Cam Global Aluminium Co., Ltd.: Improving Manufacturing Processes to Reduce Flux Consumption in Rotary Furnaces.”
  • Thai Citric Acid Co., Ltd.: From Synthetic Gypsum Waste to Sustainable Raw Materials for the Construction Industry”.
  • Siam Kraft Industry Co., Ltd.: Eco-Friendly Concrete: A Major Step Toward Low-Carbon Industry Through the Recycling of Biomass Fly Ash and Bottom Ash”.
  • M.R. Separator Limited Partnership: “Recycling Industrial Waste for Concrete Block Production – Learning, Understanding, and Applying Proper Practices”.
  • KM.34 Tannery Industrial Estate Co., Ltd. & KeraTiles Ceramic Co., Ltd.: “Chromium Extraction Technology from Industrial Waste for the Production of Ceramic Pigment Powders.”

All presentations and case studies highlighted the strength of collaboration among government agencies, researchers, and the private sector in driving Thailand’s circular economy forward in a tangible and impactful manner.

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MTEC-NSTDA Hosted “MTEC Global Partnership Dialogue EP2” Academic Seminar on the Theme “Cross Cutting-Edge Strategic Theme” https://www.mtec.or.th/en/global-partners-dialogue/ Tue, 03 Feb 2026 08:51:51 +0000 https://www.mtec.or.th/en/?p=28242 On January 27, 2026, the National Metal and Materials Technology Center (MTEC) hosted the MTEC ... Read more

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On January 27, 2026, the National Metal and Materials Technology Center (MTEC) hosted the MTEC Global Partnership Dialogue EP2 at the Thailand Science Park in Pathum Thani and via Webex. This second installment, which centered on the ‘Cross-Cutting-Edge Strategic Theme,’ follows the successful debut of EP1 held on December 12, 2025. The seminar serves as a dynamic forum for MTEC researchers and international specialists to exchange cutting-edge insights and diverse perspectives on microplastic remediation technologies. Currently, a multidisciplinary approach—one integrating microbiology, chemistry, and physics— serves as the cornerstone for developing innovations that enhance quality of life and drive sustainable environmental solutions.

The seminar program featured a keynote lecture entitled “Trends in Microplastic Detection, Removal, and Environmental Impact in Composting” delivered by Professor Dr. Naowarat Cheepatham, a Professor of Microbiology in the Department of Biological Sciences at the Faculty of Science, Thompson Rivers University, Canada. The program also incorporated a question-and-answer session to encourage the exchange of perspectives and ideas. Dr. Asira Fuongfuchat, Deputy Director of MTEC, delivered the opening remarks.

The lecture highlighted a successful case study from Kamloops, British Columbia, on household organic waste management, along with research examples conducted in the speaker’s microbiology laboratory. These studies originated from community needs and undergraduate-led projects addressing concerns about microplastics in household organic waste. The presentation showcased an innovative approach integrating chemistry, physics, and biology to develop practical solutions for environmental challenges. In addition to advancing research, this methodology promotes community engagement and supports long-term sustainable development. The event welcomed over 100 participants via a hybrid platform, combining in-person sessions with virtual access.

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Magik Growth” Durian Wrapping Bag Wins NRCT 2026 National Quality Achievement Award, Affirming the Success of a New Generation of Growers https://www.mtec.or.th/en/magik-growth/ Mon, 26 Jan 2026 08:38:26 +0000 https://www.mtec.or.th/en/?p=28226 During the fruit development stage, durian growers face their ultimate “nightmare,” including attacks from fruit ... Read more

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During the fruit development stage, durian growers face their ultimate “nightmare,” including attacks from fruit borers, mealybugs, and sooty mold. This period is especially critical during starch accumulation before sugar conversion, a decisive phase for fruit quality. A single pest infestation can ruin produce carefully cultivated all year, making it unmarketable. Consequently, many growers rely on intensive chemical spraying. This practice not only raises production costs but also increases the risk of chemical residues, which could lead to export rejections and severely damage both reputation and income.

To tackle these issues, a research team at the National Metal and Materials Technology Center (MTEC) developed an innovation that could significantly transform durian farming: the “Magik Growth” durian wrapping bag. This product targets growers aiming for export-quality standards and looking to upgrade their orchards for Good Agricultural Practices (GAP). It particularly benefits those who seek durians with clean, attractive skin without applying chemical sprays directly to the fruit.

This innovation uses specially engineered nonwoven fabric technology that efficiently allows water and air to circulate while providing superior protection against insect pests. What distinguishes Magik Growth from traditional fruit bags is its “selective light spectrum” technology, which filters out harmful wavelengths and allows only the beneficial red wavelengths to pass through. As a result, the durian fruits gain more weight, develop a cleaner and more attractive rind, and produce noticeably deeper yellow flesh.

The success of this innovation is reinforced by feedback from growers who have adopted it in real-world applications. They found that the bags not only produce premium-quality durians that command higher market prices but also reduce costs for chemical inputs and labor. The result is safer produce that is highly sought after in stringent export markets.

Confidence in this Thai innovation was further boosted when the “Magik Growth” durian wrapping bag, developed by Dr. Natthaphop Suwannamek and his research team, received the NRCT Quality Achievement Award 2026 from the National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT). The award was presented at Inventors’ Day 2026, held at BITEC Bangna, serving as strong recognition that this innovation is not only practical but also delivers significant economic benefits to the country.

Regarding concerns about cost-effectiveness, although the initial price is about 35 to 40 baht per bag, each bag can be reused for up to three production cycles, making it cost-effective investment for durian orchards focused on quality.

For more information, please contact the National Metal and Materials Technology Center (MTEC) at Tel. +66 2 564 6500 or visit www.mtec.or.th.

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MTEC-NSTDA Integrates Partnerships to Promote Sustainable Construction Timber and Strengthen the Competitiveness of Thailand’s Wood Industry https://www.mtec.or.th/en/collab-sustainable-wood/ Mon, 26 Jan 2026 08:29:08 +0000 https://www.mtec.or.th/en/?p=28214 On December 16, 2026, at the MTEC Building, Thailand Science Park, Pathum Thani Province, the ... Read more

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On December 16, 2026, at the MTEC Building, Thailand Science Park, Pathum Thani Province, the National Metal and Materials Technology Center (MTEC), part of the National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), convened a consultation meeting to develop a framework for promoting the production and use of wood as a low-carbon and sustainable construction material.

The meeting was conducted in collaboration with the United Nations Environment Programme – International Ecosystem Management Partnership (UNEP-IEMP), represented by Ms. Guoqin Wang, Programme Manager, and Ms. Tatirose Vijitpan, Focal Region for the Greater Mekong Sub-Region Portfolio and Climate Change Adaptation Specialist. The primary objective was to strengthen Thailand’s wood industry in alignment with the Bio-Circular-Green (BCG) Economy model.

The initiative encompasses an assessment of the current status of timber production and market demand, an analysis of relevant sustainability policies and measures, and the research and development of technologies across the entire production value chain. It also includes developing traceability systems and related certification schemes to enhance the international competitiveness of Thailand’s wood industry.

Concurrently, MTEC is also focusing on developing market channels and promoting the utilization of economic timber and high-value wood products in both domestic and international markets. These efforts aim to generate added value, mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, and support the long-term sustainable management of resources.

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NSTDA’s MTEC and NJFU-PRC Partner to Advance Alternative Materials Technologies and Strengthen Thai industry https://www.mtec.or.th/en/njf-university/ Mon, 26 Jan 2026 03:46:42 +0000 https://www.mtec.or.th/en/?p=27915 From October 27–28, 2025, in Jiangsu Province, People’s Republic of China, Associate Professor Dr. Toemsak ... Read more

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From October 27–28, 2025, in Jiangsu Province, People’s Republic of China, Associate Professor Dr. Toemsak Srikhirin, Director of the National Metal and Materials Technology Center (MTEC) under the National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), participated in the ‘2025 Jiangsu International Exchange Week on the Cooperation and Integration of Industry, Education, Research, and Application’ and the  ‘Agreement Exchange for Cooperation among Universities, National High-tech Zones, and Overseas Institutions.’ Both proceedings were convened at the College of Energy, Soochow University. The Director was accompanied by a delegation comprising Dr. Sitthisuntorn Supothina, Deputy Director of MTEC; Dr. Chanchana Thanachayanont, Director of the Environment Research Group; Dr. Thipjak Na Lampang, Head of the Sustainable Wood Engineering Research Team; and additional MTEC researchers. This academic meeting, conducted under the theme ‘Advanced Materials Forum,’ was attended by over 60 participants, including experts, researchers, faculty members, students, and industry representatives from five countries.

During this occasion, MTEC-NSTDA, in conjunction with Nanjing Forestry University (NJFU) and the Liyang High-Tech Industrial Development Zone, executed a Memorandum of Understanding centered on the Bamboo Charcoal New Energy Materials Industry–University–Research collaboration. The primary objective is to collaboratively engage in R&D activities pertaining to environmentally sustainable materials, facilitate researcher and student exchanges to enhance research capabilities, and establish mechanisms to disseminate international technologies across the entire value chain for industrial applications.

During the proceedings, Associate Professor Dr. Toemsak Srikhirin delivered a presentation titled “Empowering Collaboration through Advanced Materials Innovation: The MTEC Perspective.” In his remarks, he highlighted MTEC’s role as Thailand’s national materials science research organization, dedicated to advancing materials research and innovation to address global challenges through four key research areas focused on the practical application of existing materials technologies. These include: supporting  Thailand’s attainment of carbon neutrality and net-zero greenhouse gas emissions through materials technologies (Material Solutions for Net Zero); advancing medical and health materials and device innovations to enhance quality of life (Medical and Health Innovation); developing materials technologies and designs to augment the manufacturing and transportation sectors (Modern Manufacturing and Modern Transport & Road Safety); and transforming biobased materials into high-value and specialty products (High-value/Specialty Biobased Materials). He also reaffirmed MTEC’s commitment to strengthening and expanding collaboration with partner organizations through various mechanisms and activities, underscoring its role as the “technical arm—or a connecting bridge”—supporting the transfer of technologies to end-users across all sectors to generate broad and significant impacts.

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MTEC and GWSC Enhance Knowledge Exchange on Clean Water and Sanitation and Explore Research Collaboration to Strengthen Academic Networks https://www.mtec.or.th/en/mtec-gwsc/ Fri, 23 Jan 2026 08:19:51 +0000 https://www.mtec.or.th/en/?p=28193 On January 22, 2026, at the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) in Pathum Thani Province, ... Read more

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On January 22, 2026, at the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) in Pathum Thani Province, the National Metal and Materials Technology Center (MTEC-NSTDA), represented by researchers from the Environment Research Group and the Engineering Design and Computation Research Group, convened a meeting and study visit in collaboration with the Global Water and Sanitation Center (GWSC) at AIT. The event, themed “Bridging Clean Water and Sanitation Research,” was held on Thursday, January 22, 2026, from 09:30 to 12:00 at the GWSC Meeting Room within the AIT Conference Center in Pathum Thani Province.

The objective of this activity was to facilitate the exchange of knowledge and expertise in the research and development of technologies related to clean water and sanitation. Furthermore, it sought to explore opportunities for academic and research collaboration between MTEC researchers and experts from the Global Water and Sanitation Center (GWSC) and the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT).

The meeting and study visit commenced with welcoming remarks delivered by Professor Dr. Thammarat Kootatep, Co-Director of the Global Water and Sanitation Center (GWSC). This was followed by presentations outlining the roles, missions, and significant research achievements of GWSC and the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) in clean water and sanitation, and concluded with introductions of the participants.

Subsequently, MTEC provided an overview of the organization and its distinguished research outputs, facilitating opportunities for knowledge exchange and mutual learning. The program concluded with a visit to AIT’s testing laboratories.

This initiative represents a significant milestone in the integration of scientific, technological, and innovative knowledge to advance sustainable development in water resources and sanitation, both in Thailand and throughout the broader region.

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NSTDA, through MTEC, and Guangxi Research Institute of Environmental Protection of the People’s Republic of China Strengthen Research Collaboration on Environmental Pollution Management https://www.mtec.or.th/en/nstda-graes/ Sun, 18 Jan 2026 08:02:17 +0000 https://www.mtec.or.th/en/?p=28179 On January 13, 2026, at Meeting Room M506, MTEC Building, the National Science and Technology ... Read more

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On January 13, 2026, at Meeting Room M506, MTEC Building, the National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), represented by the National Metal and Materials Technology Center (MTEC), in conjunction with the Guangxi Research Academy of Environmental Sciences (GRAES) under the Department of Ecology and Environment of Guangxi, People’s Republic of China, convened a signing ceremony for a comprehensive Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on knowledge development and joint research.

The agreement was formally signed by Associate Professor Dr. Toemsak Srikhirin, Director of MTEC, and Dr. Sun Yangzhao, Director of GRAES. The ceremony was attended by Ms. Chen Danyu, Director of the Division of Climate Change and Regional Cooperation; Dr. Pawadee Methacanon, Director of the Advanced Polymer Technology Research Group; and Dr. Witchuda Daud, Researcher at the Advanced Polymer Technology Research Group, along with executives and researchers from both organizations.

The objective of this collaboration is to advance research on technologies for mitigating environmental pollutant contamination, facilitate the exchange of research personnel to strengthen joint research capacity, and support Thailand’s transition toward a circular economy and sustainable development.

Associate Professor Dr. Toemsak Srikhirin remarked that today’s signing represents a significant milestone in the partnership. It underscored a shared commitment to enhancing collaboration and knowledge exchange. This alliance aims to refine analytical methods for detecting hazardous environmental pollutants. Additionally, it will serve as a catalyst for future joint projects across various disciplines, encouraging the development of innovative techniques and technologies for managing hazardous pollutants, expanding researcher networks, and strengthening environmental cooperation between ASEAN and China.

Ms. Chen Danyu remarked, “Thailand and the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region have maintained enduring historical ties spanning geography, society, and the economy. This relationship has resulted in consistent collaborative projects and initiatives. Currently, the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region is implementing policies to remediate environmental pollution in soil, water, and air, with the goal of promoting the development of green cities.

Today’s Memorandum of Understanding signing ceremony marks another critical milestone, reflecting the commitment of both organizations to enhancing collaboration in knowledge exchange, research, and technology development to mitigate the impact of environmental pollutants. It also underscores efforts to build capacity among research personnel through exchanges and training, as well as the establishment of a robust and sustainable cooperative network.

During this meeting, the MTEC research team, representatives from the Department of Ecology and Environment, and environmental enterprises from the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, People’s Republic of China, engaged in discussions and exchanged views on potential collaboration in ecological technologies. The objective of this dialogue was to identify opportunities that may facilitate concrete cooperative activities in the future.

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MNRE and Partner Networks Launch the “Reduce Leftovers, Reduce Waste” Initiative, Aiming to Enhance Food Waste Management by 2026 under SDG 12.3 https://www.mtec.or.th/en/sdg-kicks-off/ Thu, 08 Jan 2026 07:50:38 +0000 https://www.mtec.or.th/en/?p=28163 The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MNRE) collaborated with 15 partner organizations to launch ... Read more

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The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MNRE) collaborated with 15 partner organizations to launch the “Reduce Leftovers, Reduce Waste: Stop Food Waste SDG 12.3” campaign at Siam Paragon. They outlined a plan setting 2025 as the target year for concrete actions to cut food waste, emphasizing a public–private partnership model focused on transforming consumer behavior at the source.

On January 6, 2026, Ms. Preeayaporn Sukkasem, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MNRE), who presided over the opening ceremony, stated that food waste represents a critical structural challenge for Thailand, with direct consequences for the environment and climate change. In 2026, the ministry designated the year as the beginning of the second phase of concrete nationwide efforts to reduce food waste across the country.

“Addressing food waste is not the responsibility of a single party; rather, it requires establishing safeguards for sustainable production and consumption patterns aligned with SDG 12.3. This initiative will accelerate concrete action through collaboration among a network of 15 partner organizations, guiding Thailand’s transition toward a society of responsible consumption and reducing losses across the entire supply chain, from upstream to downstream,” Ms. Preeayaporn emphasized.

Meanwhile, Mr. Bannarak Sermthong, Secretary-General of the Office of Natural Resources and Environmental Policy and Planning (ONEP), noted that, as the primary agency responsible for policy development, ONEP is focusing on establishing model food-waste management practices in the service sector, particularly in shopping malls and restaurants. These locations are considered strategic points because of their strong interaction with consumers.

“ONEP stresses that distributing symbolic stickers to participating restaurants is not simply a form of identification—it serves as a collective declaration of commitment to encourage moderate and responsible consumption among the public. We aim to expand beyond pilot organizations to a broader range of agencies and business sectors to drive lasting behavioral change toward sustainability,” he explained.

Dr. Nongnuch Poolsawat, Director of the Technology and Informatics Institute for Sustainability (TIIS) at the National Metal and Materials Technology Center within the National Science and Technology Development Agency, endorsed the initiative. She emphasized that effective food waste management depends on reliable data and innovative strategies, which are essential for making waste-reduction efforts both efficient and measurable.

MTEC-NSTDA, through TIIS, is prepared to support the initiative by providing expertise and technology via the LookieWaste app, which enables operators to systematically record and track food-waste data. Accurate data collection will create a clearer picture of waste generation, allowing for targeted analysis and more efficient, cost-effective resource management. This data-driven approach forms a critical foundation for sustainable development,” she explained.

Ms. Naratip Rattanapradit, Chief Operating Officer of Siam Piwat and a representative of a pilot practitioner organization within the partner network, stated that shopping malls under the Siam Piwat Group are prepared to serve as platforms for ongoing campaigns and concrete action. The initiative will commence with implementation at Siam Paragon as the first pilot site.

“We recognize that shopping malls play a crucial role as intermediaries between restaurants and consumers. Encouraging food outlets within our centers to minimize food waste while raising customer awareness is a central element of our long-standing sustainability mission. We are prepared to scale up the ‘Reduce Leftovers, Reduce Waste’ model to three additional malls within our network, establishing a new benchmark for the service sector and creating consumption experiences that are more environmentally responsible,” she stated.

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment urges everyone to join the movement for change. Begin with “consume in moderation” to help drive Thailand towards a sustainable future together.

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