PSU has been actively advancing its greenhouse gas reduction policies, positioning itself as a pioneering model for sharing knowledge with communities, provinces, and the nation. With a strong commitment to addressing global climate change, PSU aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030, playing a key role in shaping a sustainable future.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tanit Chalermyanont, PSU Vice President for Planning and Finance, emphasized that global warming has triggered significant climate change, disrupted seasonal patterns and impacted lives across the globe. He stressed that it is the responsibility of every organization and individual to contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. As an academic institution, PSU is committed to serving as a driving force in achieving carbon neutrality and net-zero emissions. This initiative not only aligns with national policies but also aims to elevate PSU’s role on the global stage in advancing sustainability.
Dr. Thanit further noted that, following the establishment of the three working committees, PSU has continued to implement comprehensive policies across all five campuses to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to zero and progress toward carbon neutrality. Key initiatives include the installation of solar rooftops and solar panels to harness renewable energy from sunlight, thereby reducing reliance on electricity from the grid and fossil fuel-based sources. In addition, the university has actively addressed food waste by encouraging efficient food consumption and minimizing leftovers. A range of other sustainability-focused activities is also underway, all of which have received strong support and cooperation from PSU personnel.
“The issue of greenhouse gases is a driving force behind the ongoing climate change affecting our world today. As a higher education institution with robust academic resources, expert researchers, and impactful innovations across all dimensions, PSU is well-positioned to lead by example” Dr. Thanit concluded. “The university is firmly committed to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions and sharing its expertise to serve as a model for other organizations at the community, provincial, and national levels.”
Dr. Anchana highlighted that one of the Faculty of Science’s proudest accomplishments is the successful registration of the Carbon Footprint for Organization (CFO) label. This certification acknowledges the greenhouse gas emissions generated by the organization’s operations and activities. The Faculty of Science plays a pivotal role in promoting awareness and knowledge on carbon neutrality among PSU personnel—beginning within the faculty and expanding to all campuses. This is achieved through educational initiatives developed by the faculty, including a dedicated minor in Carbon Neutrality. In addition, the faculty offers comprehensive training on Low Carbon Events, Carbon Footprint for Organizations (CFO), and Carbon Footprint of Products (CFP), delivered both in-person and online via PSU MOOC. This blended approach ensures that individuals can access valuable knowledge anytime, anywhere.
In addition to the initiatives implemented across all five campuses, PSU is also extending its knowledge to external organizations. For instance, the Pattani campus has developed the Premium T-Ver Carbon Credit project, which focuses on restoring the mangrove forests around Blue Lake. This initiative transforms the area into a learning hub for creating knowledge and fostering community development. The project also aims to generate carbon credits and support the local community in advancing toward carbon neutrality, in collaboration with Pattani province. Similarly, the Surat Thani campus has partnered with a local palm cooperative to create a knowledge framework on carbon sequestration through palm plantations, collaborating with other organizations interested in this sustainable initiative.
"Under the leadership of the President, PSU has set a clear policy to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030. Reaching this goal requires active involvement of all sectors. PSU is fully committed to collaborating with all sectors in every dimension to drive both the university and Thai society toward carbon neutrality", Dr. Anchana concluded.