SDG 2 in numbers
The graph shows fluctuations in Thammasat University graduates in agriculture and aquaculture with a sustainability focus from 2018 to 2023, starting at 103 in 2018–2019, peaking at 100 in 2021–2022, and ending at 87 in 2022–2023. This trend suggests varying interest or capacity in this field over time.
The graph shows Thammasat University’s rising scholarly output on SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), increasing from 3 publications in 2015 to 22 in 2023. Despite some fluctuations, this upward trend highlights the university’s growing focus on hunger reduction and sustainable agriculture research.
Research in SDG 2 (2019 – 2024)
Harvesting Resilience: Thammasat University’s Innovations Toward a Hunger-Free, Sustainable Future
Thammasat University scholars contribute significantly to SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) through comprehensive research across sustainable agriculture, food technology, climate resilience, and nutrition, reflecting an integrated approach to food security and environmental health.
In sustainable agriculture, research focuses on improving crop resilience and productivity in alignment with environmental conservation. Projects explore microbial and biotechnological solutions, such as rhizosphere microorganisms and biocontrol agents, to enhance plant defenses and soil nutrient availability, reducing the need for chemical pesticides and fertilizers. These studies support sustainable food production by promoting practices that maintain soil health and biodiversity, directly advancing food security.
Food technology innovation is another major research area, where scholars investigate alternative proteins, digital and AI-based crop assessments, and supply chain waste reduction. Efforts like hydrogen and biodiesel production from food waste highlight the university’s commitment to resource-efficient food systems. By addressing productivity, environmental impact, and food waste management, these advancements contribute to more sustainable and resilient food supply chains.
Climate resilience and ecosystem services also play a central role, with research examining climate change impacts on agriculture and adaptation strategies for vulnerable regions. Studies on water quality, coastal and agricultural ecosystems, and peri-urban agriculture underscore the importance of ecosystem services in building resilient food systems that can adapt to environmental changes. These projects reinforce the need for adaptable food systems that ensure security in the face of shifting climate conditions.
Thammasat scholars also emphasize food safety and nutrition, particularly for vulnerable groups such as older adults and cancer patients. Research on nutritional supplements, food contamination risks, and undernutrition expands the understanding of food security beyond mere availability to include quality and safety, emphasizing the importance of healthy, accessible food.
Overall, Thammasat University’s research reflects a robust approach to achieving SDG 2 by addressing production, innovation, resilience, and nutrition, aligning food security goals with sustainability, technological advancement, and human health.
Outreach and Academic Services in SDG 2
Thammasat University has launched 23 social service projects aligned with SDG 2: Zero Hunger, promoting food security and sustainable development through interdisciplinary collaboration. These initiatives combine expertise across sciences, social sciences, and commerce, focusing on community empowerment, self-sufficiency, and food sustainability.
A notable project led by the Institute for Continuing Education and Human Resources provides vocational training for female inmates, teaching them how to add value to agricultural products. This empowers inmates with skills for stable income and economic security after release, benefiting both their communities and their personal growth.
The Faculty of Commerce and Accountancy supports local agricultural businesses, such as Ban Nu Lung Kai Garden and the Mudin Agricultural Farm. These initiatives help farmers enhance product value and adopt sustainable income models, strengthening community enterprises and promoting economic resilience.
The Office of Advanced Science and Technology offers consulting services on export preparation for processed agricultural goods, increasing the competitiveness of Thai agriculture. Additionally, workshops on financial planning and debt restructuring assist cooperatives, like the Wang Nam Yen Dairy Cooperative, in achieving greater economic stability.
The Faculty of Law and Faculty of Sociology and Anthropology contribute through educational events that emphasize agriculture’s cultural importance. The “Royal Ploughing Ceremony” online exhibition, for instance, highlights agriculture’s role in Thai society, inspiring respect and recognition for farmers nationwide.
Thammasat’s projects reflect a comprehensive commitment to SDG 2, drawing from diverse disciplines to support food and economic sustainability. By empowering vulnerable groups and local enterprises, these initiatives strengthen communities and foster long-term resilience.
Featured Stories
Affordable Food for All
With 15 canteens across four campuses, Thammasat University provides affordable meals, meeting its goal in 2020 of offering main dishes at just 0.75 USD and free drinking water. The “Im Suk Canteen” at Rangsit campus further reduces prices, offering rice at 0.15 USD and side dishes for 0.3 USD. Supporting SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), Thammasat ensures its community has access to affordable, nutritious food.
Reference: ห้องอาหารอิ่มสุข
Thammasat University Leads the Way in ASEAN’s Food Security Research
Thammasat University, in collaboration with the National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA) and Queen’s University Belfast, is advancing food security across Southeast Asia. Through the International Joint Research Center on Food Security (IJC-FOODSEC), the university leads research on food production and safety innovations.
In November 2023, Thammasat hosted the ASEAN-ASSET 2023 summit, focusing on “Global Protein Integrity” and gathering over 400 experts to explore alternative protein sources and future food technologies. Thammasat’s research also addresses food waste, crop yields, and food safety, enhancing Thailand’s position as a global food exporter and fostering ASEAN as a hub for food innovation.
Driving Agricultural Sustainability with Blockchain Technology
In 2020, Thammasat University’s Research and Consultancy Institute, led by Professor Dr. Anut Lymakdach, partnered with the Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO) to develop TraceThai.com, a Blockchain-based platform for traceability in Thailand’s organic agricultural supply chain. The system ensures transparency, product safety, and quality, helping farmers access global markets.
In September 2023, Thammasat led a training session at the “Organic Agriculture: From Choice to Survival” seminar in Lopburi, teaching nearly 80 farmers how to use TraceThai.com. In 2024, Thammasat expanded the project to include fruits, vegetables, and processed goods.
