Walailak University prioritizes purchase of products from sustainable sources including local farmer and food producers, particularly from the Satit Walailak Pattana Community, located within 1-2 kilometers of the university. Most of the products sold on campus come from local communities and sustainable sources, including seasonal fruits and vegetables, local cuisine, and community-made products. Additionally, the university supports restaurants that use reliable and safe locally trusted sourced ingredients, reducing reliance on distant suppliers and helping lower greenhouse gas emissions from transportation which can avoidance of contributing to climate change.
In 2023, 94% of the selected food vendors on the university premises were local businesses, with the remaining 6% coming from external vendors. This sustainable food purchase significantly contributes to the economic stability of the communities surrounding the university.
One of Walailak University’s standout projects is the establishment of a Community Product Zone at the Cho Pradu Food Center, providing local entrepreneurs with space to sell sustainable food and agricultural products. There are 12 stores in total, all operated by entrepreneurs from the Satit Walailak Pattana Community. These stores receive support from the university in terms of food safety standards, enabling them to generate additional income for the local community. Additionally, students, staff, and the general public can access high-quality, safe, and environmentally friendly food from local and sustainable sources.
In addition to supporting food sold within the university, Walailak University also incorporates community products as souvenirs for special events, such as festivals or university functions. These souvenirs consist of safe and sustainable products sourced from local communities, with ingredients and items selected from producers certified by the university for safety and quality. This practice not only helps generate income for the community but also encourages them to take part in adding value to their local products.
Food sustainability in the context of Walailak University is closely connected to sourcing safe and sustainable food from local communities. The university prioritizes purchasing from sustainable food source which is environmentally sustainable management of the land and natural environment. Also, it is from environmentally friendly and sustainable production sources, such as using seasonal ingredients to reduce the environmental impact of transportation. Additionally, the university supports restaurants and products that focus on minimizing food waste, aligning with the sustainable development goals of responsible consumption and the sustainable management of food resources.
With a strong commitment to food safety and sustainability, the university prioritizes the selection of ingredients from safe local sources, ensuring the procurement of high-quality and chemical-free products. These efforts reflect the university’s dedication to promoting sustainable food consumption within the community, encompassing food production, consumption, and the management of food resources in a sustainable manner.
