Highlights
- Thammasat University, the National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT), and academic partners convene a national forum to drive sustainable urban development and grassroots economic growth.
- The research focuses on tackling complex urban challenges—including congestion, pollution, and inequality—to balance economic growth with wellbeing.
- Key research themes featured include “Sponge Cities,” “Urban Heat Island” mitigation, the “Pink Economy” concept, and data-driven urban economic analysis.
Modern urban development is shifting beyond mere economic expansion toward long-term sustainability and quality of life. Recognizing the vital role of academia in generating transformative knowledge, Thammasat University, in collaboration with the National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT), hosted the “TRF Senior Research Scholar” academic seminar today at the Eastin Grand Hotel Phayathai. The event brought together researchers, scholars, and government officials to exchange insights on “Urban Sustainability and the Grassroots Economy.”
Challenges and Urban Equilibrium
The seminar aimed to identify pathways for Thai cities to navigate rapid environmental, social, economic, and technological shifts. As urban centers face rising population density, resource depletion, and widening economic disparity, research serves as a crucial mechanism for evidence-based policy planning.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nij Tontisirin from the Faculty of Architecture and Planning, Thammasat University, serves as the Project Leader. The study emphasizes creating a synergy between economic prosperity and the residents’ well-being, noting that unbalanced urban growth poses long-term risks to both the environment and society.
Synergizing for National Development
The opening ceremony was presided over by Mr. Ekapong Musikacharoen, Director of the Research and Innovation Management Division 3 (NRCT), and Assoc. Prof. Dr. M.L. Pinitbhand Paribatra, Vice Rector for Research and Innovation at Thammasat University.
The initiative is bolstered by a robust network of partners, including experts from the Office of the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) and faculty members from Chulalongkorn University and Prince of Songkla University.
Mr. Ekapong highlighted that the Senior Research Scholar project aims to support high-impact research that translates into practical use, while Assoc. Prof. Dr. M.L. Pinitbhand reaffirmed Thammasat’s commitment to multidisciplinary research and the cultivation of a new generation of researchers to enhance Thailand’s long-term research capacity.
Innovations for the Cities of Tomorrow
The forum showcased diverse research pillars designed to address future urban needs:
- Inclusive Cities: Creating urban environments that embrace diversity and accessibility for all.
- Urban Heat: Mitigating the “Urban Heat Island” effect through innovative design.
- Urban Mobility: Enhancing transportation systems and seamless urban transit.
- Sponge City: Implementing urban design that absorbs rainwater to prevent flooding.
Furthermore, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Suwadee Thongsukplang Hansasooksin (Faculty of Architecture and Planning, Thammasat) introduced the “Pink Economy” concept. This new economic model focuses on inclusivity and diversity as key drivers to enhance a city’s international competitiveness.
From Research to National Policy
A pivotal highlight of the seminar was the alignment of research with national policy, specifically the conceptual framework of the (Draft) 14th National Economic and Social Development Plan. This plan focuses on inclusive and sustainable growth through economic restructuring, human capital enhancement, and technological innovation.
In closing, the organizers emphasized that the project transcends academic theory; it is a collaborative effort between researchers, the public sector, and private entities to ensure that findings are integrated into real-world urban planning, steering Thailand toward a sustainable future.
Source: มธ.-วช. เดินหน้าขับเคลื่อน “เมืองยั่งยืน-เศรษฐกิจฐานราก” ผ่านโครงการเมธีวิจัยอาวุโส – ไทยรัฐ