Bangkok: DPU announces the success of SUN Thailand 2026, driving change in the 'economy, society, and environment'.
According to Thai News Agency, DPU (Dhammakaya University) celebrated a significant milestone at the inaugural SUN Thailand (Sustainable University Network of Thailand) Traveling Conference in 2026, establishing a new approach to utilizing technology for achieving full sustainability in organizations. This initiative addresses technology, human well-being, and energy security, aiming to manage climate finance through AI and IoT, thus reducing energy costs and enhancing environmental awareness (SDG 13: Climate Action). The focus on well-being underscores the importance of good health and quality of life (SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being) as integral to sustainability. Furthermore, fostering energy security and transitioning to clean energy (SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy) is vital, particularly during geopolitical tensions and fluctuating oil prices.
The conference, a pioneering event in 2026, convened representatives from 60 higher education institutions across Thailand from June 18-19, 2026, organized by Dhurakij Pundit University (DPU). The event featured key speakers including Dr. Darika Lathpipat, President of DPU, Dr. Pornchai Mongkolvanich, President of Siam University, and Mr. Padet Lathong from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment. DPU highlighted its sustainability initiatives, such as developing a Green University, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and achieving a Carbon Footprint for Organization (CFO) certification.
On the conference's second day, presentations were made by Dr. Sakyong Pattanavekin, CEO of Vekin (Thailand) Co., Ltd., who discussed the role of AI in Climate Finance, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mas Maiprasert from DPU on "Wellness and Longevity: The Future of Human Potential." In the afternoon, participants visited PTT Public Company Limited for a presentation by Dr. Nattakorn Kraikul on PTT's sustainability strategy.
Dr. Pattanavekin emphasized the significance of AI in Climate Finance, highlighting its role in combining investment with technology to reduce energy costs and achieve carbon reduction. He addressed challenges faced by organizations due to Green Loan Principles (GLPs) and underscored the potential of climate finance in education through climate literacy and practical implementation.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Maiprasert linked sustainable development with health, stressing that wellness and longevity are critical for human potential, in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He detailed how effective management of lifestyle factors can lead to better health outcomes and slow the aging process, thus contributing to a sustainable economy.
Dr. Kraikul presented PTT's approach to driving sustainability in Thailand's energy sector. He outlined PTT's C3 framework-shifting towards low-carbon energy, enhancing asset efficiency, and fostering collaboration for sustainability projects. PTT aims to reduce GHG emissions significantly by 2035 and achieve net zero emissions by 2050, aligning business growth with societal value.