Kittipong Bunlear – Page 5 – Walailak University Sustainable Development

04Nov 2025 by Kittipong Bunlear

Energy Efficiency Plan for a Sustainable Future

Sustainability and Stewardship Despite WU’s advancements in energy-efficient infrastructure, these efforts alone are insufficient to achieve the institution’s ambitious energy consumption targets. Thus, WU continually has an energy efficiency plan in place to reduce overall energy consumption, aiming to lower energy usage of the campus annually and foster a culture of conservation across campus by combining appliance upgrades, renewable energy adoption, and smart energy management systems in the year 2024. WU remains steadfast to sustainability and reducing energy consumption in alignment with the Energy Efficiency Development Plan. Upgrading to Energy-Efficient Appliances A key component of WU’s plan involves replacing outdated equipment with energy-efficient models. The university has completed a full transition to LED lighting, reducing energy consumption for lighting by 80%. Additionally, 100% of WU’s air conditioning units have been…

04Nov 2025 by Kittipong Bunlear

The Carbon Emission Reduction Process

Sustainability and Stewardship

Sustainability and Stewardship Excessive carbon emissions present a major challenge for many educational institutions, impeding their progress toward sustainable development and environmental responsibility. To address this issue, WU has an effective carbon management process to reduce carbon dioxide emissions across the three scopes of greenhouse gas emissions. This approach integrates renewable energy adoption, emission control measures, and sustainable practices to align with the university’s long-term environmental goals. Direct Emissions To manage direct emissions, WU maintains efficient combustion systems and has transitioned its fleet to electric vehicles, reducing emissions by 47.31 tons of CO2 equivalent in 2024. Regular inspections of refrigerant systems minimized fugitive emissions, achieving a reduction of 855.05 tons of CO2 equivalent. Indirect Emissions The university has significantly reduced reliance on grid electricity by adopting renewable energy, such as…

04Nov 2025 by Kittipong Bunlear

The Plans for Energy-Efficient Upgrades

Sustainability and Stewardship

Sustainability and Stewardship Inefficient energy use is a key barrier to achieving Green University status, which represents environmental responsibility and sustainable innovation. WU, however, leads this shift with 80.80% of its infrastructure now classified as Smart Buildings. By integrating advanced technologies to boost efficiency, cut carbon emissions, and optimize operations, WU has plans to upgrade existing buildings to higher energy efficiency and sets a model for sustainability in higher education. Smart Buildings & Energy Efficiency Enhancements The university has implemented various energy-saving plans, including automated lighting and climate control systems that adjust based on real-time occupancy, significantly cutting energy waste. Real-time energy monitoring ensures continuous optimization, while fire suppression and security systems operate efficiently without compromising safety. Additionally, the…

04Nov 2025 by Kittipong Bunlear

Local Start-Up Assistance on Red Palm Oil

Outreach and Engagement

Outreach and Engagement WU continues to support local startups of financially and socially sustainable businesses through the Walailak Business Incubation Center (WIC), providing knowledge, technology, and resources to promote financially and socially sustainable enterprises. Sustaining Momentum Building on the ongoing projects from previous years, WU remains dedicated to empowering community-driven businesses and designed to meet Thai FDA/GMP standards by offering: Training & Mentorship – Expert-led programs in marketing, finance, and business sustainability. Collaboration & Networking – Expanding partnerships with government agencies and private stakeholders. Access to University Resources – Free use of office spaces, high-speed internet, lab equipmentand online tools. Expanding Impact In 2024, The University extended its support to the red palm oil industry, focusing on improving production efficiency and market expansion. Collaborating with…

04Nov 2025 by Kittipong Bunlear

Start-Up Support for Fishing Communities

Blue Swimming Crab2025, Outreach and Engagement

Outreach and Engagement Many local start-ups producing fishery products do not have access to knowledge in developing packaging to increase more income. WU has undertaken an innovative initiative in 2024 to uplift the fishing communities of Nakhon Si Thammarat. This ambitious project focused on supporting the start-up of financially and socially sustainable businesses by equipping local groups with relevant education and resources, such as mentorship programs, training workshops, and access to university facilities. Tailored Support for Fishing Communities WU collaborated with 12 fishing groups to address specific needs, including branding, packaging design, and production improvements. The "LayKhon" online platform was introduced to help local businesses expand their reach. Ban Koh Phet Seafood Processing Community Enterprise: Developed a closed-system facility for Halal and FDA certification. Muslimah Fishing Group: Created…

04Nov 2025 by Kittipong Bunlear

Start-Up Support for a Local Mangosteen

Outreach and Engagement

Outreach and Engagement Mangosteen cultivation has long been a cornerstone of the economy in Cha-uat District, Nakhon Si Thammarat. Despite its significance, farmers have faced persistent challenges, notably from diseases like Pestalotiopsis leaf blight, which compromise fruit quality and market value. In response, WU has initiated support programs to assist local community start-ups in implementing sustainable and effective agricultural practices to be financially and socially sustainable businesses. In 2024, WU's Clinic Technology expanded its outreach to empower mangosteen farmers with modern, eco-friendly farming techniques. Central to this initiative is the promotion of Trichoderma, a biological product renowned for its efficacy against fungal diseases. This spore-based powder is not only user-friendly but also safe for both humans and the environment, presenting a viable alternative to chemical pesticides. The adoption of Trichoderma…

04Nov 2025 by Kittipong Bunlear

Inclusive Support for Low-Income Students

Sustainability and Stewardship

Sustainability and Stewardship Walailak University (WU) has been enrolling students who are from low-income families. WU has developed a comprehensive support system to ensure that low-income students can complete university without the burden of financial stress. Through scholarships, housing, food assistance, transportation, and legal services, WU continues to break barriers and pave the way for equal opportunities in higher education. Establishing a Dedicated Support Center WU has set up the Division of Student Support and Development (DSSD), which acts as a one-stop service hub for low-income students. The division provides scholarships, guidance, and other critical resources to meet the needs of these students, ensuring their academic journey is smooth and fulfilling. Scholarships and Tuition Waivers To alleviate financial pressures, WU offers various scholarships for Thai and international students from developing…

26Oct 2025 by Kittipong Bunlear

Collaborations with Local Community in Efforts to Maintain Shared Aquatic Ecosystems

Blue Swimming Crab2025, Outreach and Engagement

Outreach and Engagement Walailak University (WU), in collaboration with local fishing communities and multiple partners, has spearheaded an innovative initiative to restore the blue swimming crab population along Thailand’s coastal waters. This initiative, known as the Crab Bank Project, represents a vital effort to promote sustainable fisheries in response to the rapid decline of marine resources. As blue swimming crabs constitute one of Thailand’s most valuable seafood exports, their depletion has posed serious challenges to national food security, economic stability, and the livelihoods of coastal fishers. Through scientific research, stakeholder engagement, and community participation, WU’s project seeks to protect shared marine ecosystems and ensure a sustainable future for Thailand’s fishery sector. Thailand’s coastal zones are rich in biodiversity and provide essential income and nutrition for millions of people. However, intensive…

25Oct 2025 by Kittipong Bunlear

Sustainable Management Strategy of Aquatic Resources in Pak Phanang River Basin and Bandon Bay

Outreach and Engagement

Outreach and Engagement Walailak University has been actively engaged in advancing sustainable water and aquatic resource management across Southern Thailand, addressing critical environmental challenges while supporting local communities. Through collaboration with government agencies, private sector partners, and local residents, the University contributes research, innovative solutions, and educational initiatives to promote ecosystem conservation, resilient livelihoods, and sustainable development. Key initiatives include the Pak Phanang River Basin Project, which mitigates flooding, saltwater intrusion, and water shortages; the Kuan Kreng Peat Swamp Project, focused on wetland restoration and integrated water management; and the Bandon Bay Sustainable Fisheries Project, aimed at preserving marine biodiversity, promoting responsible fishing practices, and ensuring long-term ecological and economic resilience. Together, these efforts exemplify Walailak University’s commitment to evidence-based, community-centered, and ecosystem-focused approaches to natural resource management. The Projects…

25Oct 2025 by Kittipong Bunlear

WU’s Action Plan to Minimize Physical, Chemical, and Biological Alterations of Related Aquatic Ecosystems

Sustainability and Stewardship

Sustainability and Stewardship Walailak University (WU) has a plan to minimise physical, chemical, and biological alterations of related aquatic ecosystems to ensure that all aquatic ecosystems and the environment around the campus are protected. WU has various specific organizations, responsible for monitoring, improving, and minimizing physical, chemical, and biological alterations of related aquatic ecosystems on campus, such as the Center for Smart Farming and Landscaping Architecture and the School of Science (Marine Science), and the Center for Scientific and Technological Equipment. These organizations serve as key units responsible for research, monitoring, and implementing sustainable management practices to maintain the health of aquatic ecosystems on campus. To designate newly formed areas on campus as additional preserved zones for water resources, protecting them from fishing, encroachment, and other activities that may impact…

Author: Kittipong Bunlear