Bangkok: The Department of Climate Change Mitigation and Banpu Public Company Limited are aiding communities in the installation of solar panels and establishing organic waste management points to foster low-carbon communities.
According to Thai News Agency, the initiative focuses on Khlong Sam Wa, where efforts are underway to cut down greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 2,400 kilograms of carbon dioxide equivalent per year. This project contributes to Thailand's aim for carbon neutrality and sustainable urban development.
The Department of Climate Change and Environment, under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, in collaboration with Banpu, unveiled the 'Khlong Sam Wa Low-Carbon Community Project'. This initiative was delivered to members of the Khlong Sam Wa District Environmental Volunteer Network at the KC 1 Village Community Learning Center. The project is a pilot effort arising from collaborations between the government, private sector, and civil society to bolster climate change mitigation, as highlighted during the Thailand Climate Action Conference (TCAC). The Khlong Sam Wa District Environmental Volunteer Network plays a pivotal role in managing the project to create a tangible model of a low-carbon community within an urban setting.
Mr. Komes Phutthasorn, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Climate Change and Environment, emphasized the KC 1 Community Learning Center project as a model for 'self-managed communities' addressing global warming at the household level. The Department aims to expand this project to other areas to build national resilience to climate change through public participation. He expressed gratitude to Banpu and the KC 1 village community for their support in Thailand's climate change mitigation efforts. Over the eight-month project, Banpu provided funding and expertise, installing a 5-kilowatt rooftop solar power system to help reduce emissions. Additionally, they set up a demonstration site for managing household organic waste, which is expected to cut emissions at landfills.
Mr. Jiramed Atcha, Assistant Chief Executive Officer - Corporate Management and Development at Banpu, expressed pleasure in participating in the project, aligning with Banpu's commitment to carbon reduction. The initiative has helped reduce central electricity costs at the learning center, freeing funds for community welfare activities. Ms. Benjaporn Muang-in, Chairperson of the Khlong Sam Wa Community Network, shared the positive impacts on the community, including cleaner surroundings and reduced agricultural costs.
This collaboration in developing the 'Khlong Sam Wa Low-Carbon Community' empowers the public to combat climate change and positions the KC 1 Village Community Learning Center as a model for clean energy and organic waste management. This initiative is a step towards supporting Thailand's master plan for carbon neutrality and sustainable urban development.