SDG 17 in Numbers

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Research in SDG 17

Between 2019 and 2023, Thammasat University produced 2,588 publications related to SDG 17. This extensive body of work demonstrates that partnership is a core mechanism for the university’s research across scientific, social, and economic disciplines. The research aligns directly with the key implementation themes of SDG 17, including multi-stakeholder governance, innovative finance and economic models, science and technology transfer, and capacity building to address both immediate crises and long-term sustainability challenges.

The university’s research can be grouped into four primary clusters, each built upon distinct partnership models:

1. Global Health and Crisis Response: This cluster highlights partnerships in Science, Technology, and Innovation to tackle major public health issues. Collaborations were crucial for regional COVID-19 epidemiological studies, national preparedness analysis, and the operation of large-scale clinical networks like the Thai Lymphoma Study Group. These partnerships also extend to governance and finance by addressing health inequity, such as examining the healthcare financial burden in Cambodia, showcasing a commitment to collective action for regional well-being.
   
2. Climate Action and Energy Transition: Research in this area is founded on technical and policy partnerships essential for Governance and Innovation. Thammasat has engaged in complex, multi-institutional projects to model greenhouse gas mitigation pathways for Thailand and the Greater Mekong Sub-region (GMS). This includes decarbonization strategies for the transport and cement industries and feasibility studies on carbon capture technologies, directly contributing to global climate goals through shared expertise and data.
   
3. Sustainable Urbanization and Infrastructure: This cluster focuses on partnerships for Capacity Building and inclusive Governance in developing resilient urban centers. Research explores frameworks for smart cities, models the benefits of Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) in Bangkok, and employs participatory tools like the Community-Based Resilience Analysis (COBRA) to empower local communities. These initiatives exemplify partnerships between academia, government, and communities to create sustainable living environments.
   
4. Innovation, Technology, and Economic Structures: This research emphasizes partnerships as a driver for Economy and Finance. Studies investigate the factors that create robust innovation ecosystems, the impact of digital transformation (e.g., FinTech, Metaverse), and the role of microfinance in achieving both sustainability and social outreach. This work analyzes the institutional and financial frameworks necessary to support technology transfer and sustainable economic growth.

Synthesis and Impact 

Collectively, these research clusters illustrate Thammasat University’s role as a key hub in a network of national and international collaborators. Partnerships with top Thai institutions (e.g., Mahidol University), government agencies (e.g., NSTDA), and global organizations (e.g., WHO, World Bank) are fundamental to producing impactful research that translates into tangible means of implementation, from policy-informing models to innovative technologies and sustainable materials.

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Outreach and Academic Services in SDG 17

In 2024, Thammasat University demonstrated a strong commitment to SDG 17, through the implementation of 99 distinct academic and social service initiatives. These efforts underscore the university’s role as a central hub for fostering collaboration across local, national, and international levels to achieve sustainable development. The activities can be broadly categorized into three strategic clusters: strengthening international and regional cooperation, building multi-sectoral national partnerships, and fostering community and local-level engagement:

1. International and Regional Cooperation (approx. 25 activities) 
   A significant portion of the initiatives focused on strengthening international partnerships. Thammasat hosted numerous forums analyzing complex geopolitical issues, such as the future of Japan-ASEAN relations, the implications of the U.S. election on Southeast Asia, and regional security challenges. These platforms facilitated high-level dialogue among academics, policymakers, and the public. Furthermore, the university promoted a deeper understanding of global legal frameworks through seminars on international humanitarian law and treaty interpretation, reinforcing its commitment to global governance and peace through cross-border academic collaboration.
   
2. Multi-Sectoral National Partnerships (approx. 40 activities) 
   At the national level, the university spearheaded numerous partnerships with government agencies, the private sector, and civil society. A notable example is the creation of professional networks for educators to enhance teaching quality nationwide. In public health, the university collaborated with a network of hospitals to improve treatment protocols for diseases like asthma. In policy development, Thammasat worked directly with governmental bodies, such as contributing to discussions on a Clean Air Act for Thailand. The university also actively pursued innovation partnerships with various industries to drive technological advancement and economic growth, serving as a bridge between academia and industry.
   
3. Community and Local-Level Engagement (roughly 34 activities) 
   Fostering community engagement was another cornerstone of Thammasat’s SDG 17 strategy. The university played a crucial role in promoting inclusive societal dialogue, particularly through its ongoing work on the peace process in the southern border provinces, which involved extensive public opinion surveys and stakeholder consultations. Direct support for local economies was provided through partnerships with community enterprises, such as those involved in local textile production. These collaborations empowered local producers and preserved cultural heritage. This hands-on approach ensures that development is community-driven and that partnerships are built on a foundation of mutual trust and shared goals.
   

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Thammasat Leading Regional Collaboration to Drive Multi-Stakeholder Acceleration 

Thammasat University reaffirmed its leadership in advancing sustainability by hosting the SDSN Thailand Public Forum 2024. This high-level regional platform, led by the University’s Centre for SDG Research and Support (SDG Move), fostered collaboration among academia, government, the private sector, and international organizations. The Forum played a key role in accelerating sustainability action through inclusive dialogue and cross-sectoral partnerships.

Held on 10 October 2024, the event provided an official mechanism for discussing national and regional priorities, enabling participants to exchange experiences and co-create practical solutions. A major outcome was the publication of the Full Report, which consolidates collective insights and policy recommendations on key themes such as Just Energy Transition and Sustainable Food and Agriculture.

Mobilizing Public Engagement through Thammasat’s Support for the Sustrends Forum

Bridging Local Needs and National Strategy through the “Area Needs” Project 

The ongoing Area Needs Project (since 2023), led by Thammasat’s SDG Move with support from TSRI and regional university partners, applies a bottom-up, multi-stakeholder approach to align national research funding with local SDG priorities. A key outcome—the Policy Brief published in November 2024—synthesizes findings from the project’s second year, highlighting shared regional challenges and research gaps. The initiative exemplifies Thammasat University’s pivotal role in strengthening mechanisms for sustainable development across Thailand by connecting local insights with national policy frameworks.

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SDG 16 in Numbers

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Research in SDG 16

Based on an analysis of 159 publications from 2020 to 2024, Thammasat University’s research on SDG 16 is structured around four interconnected pillars that address the core tenets of peace, justice, and institutional strength:

1. Advancing Justice, Human Rights, and Legal Innovation: A primary research cluster focuses on the architecture of legal and justice systems. This includes studies on the domestic application of international human rights law, particularly concerning marriage equality and conflict resolution. A forward-looking sub-theme is the integration of technology into the legal field, with research on Al-powered chatbots for victims of violence and the use of deep learning for forensic analysis, such as firearm classification. The research also provides critical insights into social and gender-based violence, from domestic abuse to bullying in schools.
   
2. Strengthening Governance and Accountability: This body of work examines the mechanisms of trust and accountability in both public and corporate institutions. Research analyzes public sector performance and citizen trust, particularly in the context of major events like the COVID-19 pandemic. In the corporate sphere, studies investigate how governance structures, such as board gender diversity, influence corporate social responsibility, ESG performance, and employee welfare.
   
3. Social Equity and Protection of Vulnerable Populations: A significant portion of the research is dedicated to understanding and addressing the challenges faced by marginalized groups. This includes a focus on the risks confronting youth and children, such as violence and adverse childhood experiences. It also covers the systemic issues encountered by women and LGBTQ+ communities, from safety in public transport to discrimination. Furthermore, studies highlight the unique health and social determinants affecting ethnic minorities and indigenous communities.
   
4. Building Resilient Cities and Communities: This interdisciplinary cluster applies the principles of good governance to the challenges of urban and environmental resilience, linking SDG 16 to SDGs 11 and 13. The research explores sustainable urban planning, climate governance, and the importance of community participation in building local capacity for disaster risk management and climate adaptation, with a strong focus on participatory planning and nature-based solutions.

Synthesis and Impact 

Collectively, this research portfolio demonstrates a strategic focus on Thai and ASEAN contexts while engaging in global comparative studies. Supported by a robust network of domestic and international collaborators, Thammasat University provides a vital evidence base for strengthening legal frameworks, improving governance, protecting vulnerable populations, and building resilient communities, positioning itself as a key contributor to SDG 16 in the region.

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Outreach and Academic Services in SDG 16

In 2024, Thammasat University demonstrated an extensive and profound commitment to fostering SDG16, executing over 148 targeted academic service and social outreach activities. These initiatives reflect a comprehensive strategy to strengthen the rule of law, enhance institutional capacity, and promote a just and peaceful society. The university’s diverse efforts can be organized into three principal clusters: strengthening the rule of law and access to justice, promoting good governance and institutional transparency, and fostering peace, security, and human rights:

1. Strengthening the Rule of Law and Access to Justice (approx. 85 activities)
   The cornerstone of Thammasat’s contribution to SDG 16 was the significant work undertaken to fortify the legal and judicial systems. The Faculty of Law, alongside other institutes, organized numerous seminars, workshops, and training sessions aimed at both legal professionals and the general public. Key topics included criminal justice reform, the rights of detainees, consumer protection law, and the operational best practices of legal aid clinics. A strong emphasis was placed on demystifying the law for citizens through programs on essential topics like family, inheritance, and land law. Furthermore, a dedicated focus was placed on the justice system’s role in rehabilitation, with extensive projects providing legal knowledge, vocational training, and life skills to inmates within the correctional system, directly contributing to their successful reintegration into society.
   
2. Promoting Good Governance and Institutional Transparency (approx. 40 activities) 
   Building strong, accountable, and transparent institutions was another critical focus area. The university provided extensive training for local government officials through the Faculty of Social Administration, covering crucial topics such as public procurement laws, administrative regulations, urban planning, and effective internal auditing. These programs are designed to enhance the efficiency, transparency, and accountability of public administration at the local level. Seminars also addressed broader themes of good governance, anti-corruption policies, and the ethical responsibilities of public officials, reinforcing the foundations of a trustworthy and effective state.
   
3. Fostering Peace, Security, and Human Rights (approx. 23 activities) 
   Thammasat University actively engaged in critical discussions and initiatives aimed at promoting peace and protecting human rights. This included public forums analyzing complex international conflicts and their implications for global peace. Domestically, the university continued its vital work on the peace process in the southern border provinces by disseminating public opinion surveys and facilitating dialogue. A significant number of seminars were dedicated to crucial human rights legislation and issues, such as the Act on Prevention and Suppression of Torture and Enforced Disappearance, the principles of human dignity under the constitution, and the legal frameworks for creating a more just and peaceful society.

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Featured Stories

Building Accountability and Advancing Governance

Thammasat University has strengthened its commitment to ethical governance with the launch of the Code of Ethics Handbook, providing clear guidelines on integrity, responsibility, and justice for executives, staff, and students. A key feature is the Grievance Channels for Governance and Ethics, offering a transparent and reliable process for reporting misconduct and fostering a university-wide culture of accountability. In Fiscal Year 2024, Thammasat achieved an ITA score of 94.73 (Pass, Good), improving by 0.69 points from the previous year. This reflects the success of the Strategic Anti-Corruption Action Plan (2023-2027), which promotes transparent management, integrity in research, and fair administrative systems. The Handbook reinforces these standards, emphasizing honesty, public interest, fairness, and non-discrimination, supported by the Committee for Good Governance and Ethics and confidential reporting channels.

Strengthening Local Institutions through Thammasat’s Models for Governance and Public Service Reform

Thammasat University strengthens local governance and public institutions through policy-focused research. One key initiative, launched in August 2024, supports Hua Hin Municipality in its transition to a Special Administrative Organization (SAO). This research assesses Hua Hin’s potential, recommends governance models, and informs legislation for a more flexible and responsive administration.

Demonstrating commitment to decentralization, another project with Health Systems Research Institute (HSRI) and NIDA researched transferring primary healthcare responsibilities to Provincial Administrative Organizations (PAOs). Studying models in 11 provinces, insights and practical tools were shared via a November 2024 national seminar and capacity-building, aiming to enhance PAO capabilities in managing primary healthcare and improve public access. Both initiatives exemplify Thammasat’s dedication to using academic knowledge to build strong, accountable, and community-oriented local institutions in Thailand.

Fostering Constitutional Dialogue through Thammasat as a Platform for Democratic Reform 

Thammasat University actively serves as a vital platform for discussions on constitutionalism and democratic governance. In December, significant seminars were hosted, including “Pridi Talk #28” on ending coups and drafting a people’s constitution, and a Faculty of Law event on pathways for constitutional reform. By facilitating these timely discussions, Thammasat underscores its commitment to strengthening democratic institutions, promoting the rule of law, and fostering peace and justice in Thailand.

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SDG 15 in Numbers

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Research in SDG 15

Based on an analysis of 77 publications from 2020 to 2024, Thammasat University has developed a focused and impactful research portfolio aligned with SDG 15. The research demonstrates a strategic emphasis on applied science to address Thailand’s key environmental challenges, from waste valorization to ecosystem conservation. The work is organized around three primary, interconnected clusters:

1. Sustainable Materials and the Bio-Circular-Green Economy (BCG): A significant portion of the research is dedicated to advancing a circular economy by transforming biological resources and waste streams into high-value products. This includes developing advanced carbon materials from invasive biomass like water hyacinth for use in batteries and supercapacitors and creating sustainable construction materials by incorporating industrial byproducts such as fly ash and waste glass. This research directly supports Thailand’s national BCG economic model by providing innovative, tangible solutions for waste valorization.
   
2. Ecosystem Health, Monitoring, and Remediation: This research cluster focuses on the assessment and restoration of terrestrial ecosystems. It leverages advanced technology, such as satellite data and laser scanning, to monitor long-term forest cover changes and carbon storage in critical regions like Nan Province. Another key strength is in pollution remediation, with studies identifying and utilizing plants and microbes for the bioremediation of soils contaminated with heavy metals and pesticides. This work provides an essential evidence base for conservation and environmental cleanup efforts.
   
3. Sustainable Land Management, Governance, and Urban Ecology: The third pillar addresses the intersection of land use, policy, and human systems. Research in this area champions the use of Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) to create more resilient urban and peri-urban environments, particularly in the Bangkok Metropolitan Region. It also evaluates environmental governance, from analyzing conservation agreements to developing frameworks for assessing community resilience to environmental hazards. This work provides critical insights for sustainable landscape planning and effective environmental policy.

Synthesis and Impact 

Collectively, Thammasat University’s research on SDG 15 is characterized by its applied nature, with a strong geographical focus on specific Thai contexts (Nan, Bangkok, Lampang) and a commitment to addressing the needs of local communities and ecosystems. The work is underpinned by a robust network of national collaborators, including key government agencies like NSTDA and GISTDA, as well as international partners. This positions the university as a vital contributor of scientific knowledge and practical solutions for sustainable land management in Thailand and the wider region.

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Outreach and Academic Services in SDG 15

In 2024, Thammasat University demonstrated a robust and strategic commitment to SDG 15, by implementing 16 distinct academic service and social outreach activities. These initiatives were meticulously designed to protect and restore terrestrial ecosystems, promote biodiversity, and ensure sustainable land use through a comprehensive, multi-faceted approach. The university’s efforts were strategically organized into three primary clusters: biodiversity and ecosystem conservation, sustainable land governance and legal frameworks, and community engagement in sustainable resource use, reflecting an integrated strategy to tackle the complex challenges facing life on land:

1. Biodiversity and Ecosystem Conservation (4 activities) 
   A significant focus was placed on protecting Thailand’s rich biodiversity and vital ecosystems. This included a public exhibition aimed at raising awareness about primates at Khao Yai National Park, which sought to foster a deeper public appreciation for wildlife and the critical importance of habitat conservation. The university also addressed the protection of invaluable coastal ecosystems through a seminar on mangrove forests, highlighting their role as natural barriers against erosion, crucial carbon sinks, and vital nurseries for marine life. From a legal standpoint, efforts were directed at combating the illegal online wildlife trade by exploring legal loopholes and developing more effective enforcement strategies to address this modern threat. Additionally, participatory research projects explored effective strategies for holistic biodiversity management, working alongside local communities to integrate traditional knowledge with scientific approaches.
   
2. Sustainable Land Governance and Legal Frameworks (7 activities) 
   The university dedicated substantial efforts to strengthening land governance and legal understanding, recognizing that clear and equitable laws are fundamental to protecting life on land. Multiple workshops and seminars were conducted to educate the public, community leaders, and local officials on land law, property tax regulations, and land rights. These sessions empowered stakeholders with the knowledge to navigate complex regulations, prevent land-use conflicts, and promote transparent administration. The initiatives also tackled pressing issues such as legal disputes over coastal erosion (“land lost to the sea”), a direct consequence of climate change, and the specific regulations concerning land owned by religious institutions, ensuring a comprehensive approach to sustainable and equitable land management.
   
3. Community Engagement and Sustainable Resource Use (5 activities) 
   Engaging communities as active partners in sustainable practices was another key area of focus. Initiatives included a hands-on workshop on natural indigo dyeing, which promotes the sustainable use of plant resources while reviving traditional crafts that provide eco-friendly economic benefits. The university also explored the crucial link between ethnic communities in highland areas and their surrounding ecosystems, recognizing their role as stewards of biodiversity and their valuable traditional ecological knowledge. Further activities focused on educating the public about natural disasters to build community resilience and preparedness, and promoting knowledge of local medicinal plants, which supports the conservation of both botanical diversity and cultural heritage.

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Featured Stories

Raising Awareness and Mainstreaming Biodiversity 

Strengthening the Rule of Law to Combat Illegal Wildlife Trade

Interdisciplinary Research for the Sustainability of Highland Ecosystems

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SDG 14 in Numbers

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Research in SDG 14

Based on an analysis of 102 publications from 2020 to 2024, Thammasat University has established a significant research portfolio aligned with SDG 14. The university’s work is concentrated in three main areas: microplastic pollution, sustainable aquaculture, and broader environmental management, with a strong emphasis on Thailand’s aquatic ecosystems and economy:

1. Microplastic Pollution and Aquatic Contaminants: A primary research pillar focuses on the pervasive issue of microplastic pollution, particularly within the Chao Phraya River. Studies investigate the sources, distribution, and impacts of microplastics, including their role as vectors for heavy metals. This research directly addresses economic and food safety concerns by examining contamination in commercially vital species such as green mussels, shrimp, and crabs. The work extends to solutions, including evaluating the effectiveness of wastewater treatment plants and developing advanced Al and machine learning models for efficient microplastic detection.
   
2. Sustainable Aquaculture and Fisheries Technology: The university has a strong focus on applying advanced technology to enhance the sustainability and productivity of Thailand’s aquaculture industry. This includes the development of automated systems for shrimp farming, real-time water quality monitoring sensors (e.g., for ammonium), and innovative Al-based methods for rapidly assessing fish freshness. This applied research provides practical solutions to improve efficiency and reduce the environmental impact of local fisheries.
   
3. Environmental Management and Coastal Resilience: Beyond specific pollutants, the research addresses a wider range of environmental challenges affecting coastal and aquatic systems. This includes assessing the environmental impacts of using industrial byproducts like fly ash in coastal construction, analyzing coastal vulnerability to climate change in provinces like Nakhon Si Thammarat and Krabi, and investigating the direct links between water resource quality and public health, such as assessing arsenic levels in groundwater.

Synthesis and Impact 

Collectively, Thammasat’s research on SDG 14 is highly applied, with a clear geographical focus on Thailand’s critical waterways and a biological focus on commercially important species. The work is supported by a robust network of domestic partners (Chulalongkorn University, Mahidol University, NSTDA) and international collaborators (Hokkaido University, Queen’s University Belfast). This positions the university as a key regional hub for applied aquatic science, providing vital data and innovative solutions to protect marine ecosystems and support sustainable economic development.

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Outreach and Academic Services in SDG 14

In 2024, Thammasat University demonstrated its deep commitment to the conservation and sustainable use of marine resources through six targeted academic and social service initiatives aligned with SDG 14. Recognizing the profound importance of marine ecosystems to Thailand’s national identity and economy, these efforts exemplify a strategic, dual-pronged approach. This approach skillfully blends grassroots empowerment with high-level policy and scientific advancement, channeling expertise into both empowering coastal communities and advancing the essential legal and scientific knowledge required for effective marine ecosystem protection:

1. Empowering Sustainable Coastal Livelihoods (3 activities) A core component of the university’s work involved direct, on-the-ground engagement with local communities to foster economic resilience while embedding principles of sustainable resource use. The Faculty of Commerce and Accountancy spearheaded several projects to support community enterprises, including those focused on the long-term viability of small-scale fisheries at Suchada and Kaoyod beaches. These efforts are vital for local food security, preserving cultural heritage, and promoting responsible, low-impact fishing practices. Another key initiative was the development of an innovative learning center for seaweed aquaculture, a practice that offers a sustainable alternative livelihood with significant co-benefits for local water quality, such as absorbing excess nutrients.
   
   These initiatives aimed not only to enhance local income but also to create tangible value-added products—such as durable bags crafted from reclaimed fishing nets, a creative solution that directly tackles the pervasive issue of marine plastic pollution and hazardous ‘ghost nets‘—which exemplify circular economy principles. This hands-on approach directly contributes to the economic well-being of coastal populations whose livelihoods are intrinsically linked to the health of marine ecosystems.
   
2. Advancing Marine Knowledge and Environmental Governance (3 activities)
   Complementing its community-based work, the university also focused on strengthening the academic and legal frameworks essential for long-term marine conservation. The Faculty of Law addressed critical and complex coastal challenges by hosting a seminar on resolving legal disputes related to coastal erosion—a growing issue often referred to as “land lost to the sea.”. This platform facilitated vital discussions on property rights, community displacement, and the urgent need for adaptive legal frameworks in an era of climate change, providing potential solutions for protecting vulnerable communities and their infrastructure.
   
   Furthermore, the Faculty of Pharmacy contributed to the body of scientific knowledge by disseminating research on Blue Spirulina, highlighting the vast, untapped potential of marine bio-resources for applications in nutraceuticals and sustainable food systems. This research helps pioneer the shift towards a sustainable “blue bioeconomy,” which leverages marine biodiversity for high-value applications, thereby reducing pressure on terrestrial resources. Together, these initiatives underscore the university’s integral role in shaping evidence-based policy, resolving environmental conflicts, and building the robust knowledge base required for effective, equitable, and forward-looking marine governance.

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Academic Excellence and International Policy

Furthermore, TU organized the Academic Forum on Mangrove Forests: Importance and Challenges with Land Tax, which links legal and public policy issues with the conservation of vital coastal ecosystems, as well as the Academic Seminar on “Disputes and Solutions for Land Reclamation Issues at Sea,” which focused on managing conflicts over the use of coastal areas a crucial factor for ecosystem sustainability.

Strengthening Fishing Communities and Sustainable Development

Thammasat has implemented the “Thammasat Model,” a collaborative mechanism with partners, particularly the PTT Group and the Friends of the Community Association, to enhance the capacity of the Sukhada Beach Small-Scale Fishery Community Enterprise and the Kao Yot Small-Scale Fishery Community Enterprise in Rayong Province. These initiatives focus on promoting sustainable livelihoods for small-scale fishers by improving their access to resources and markets. Key activities conducted in the area include:

• Product and Market Channel Enhancement
  The TU Faculty of Commerce and Accountancy collaborated to upgrade the potential of the Sukhada Beach Small-Scale Fishery Community Enterprise, aiming for sustainable community economic development.

• Resource Conservation
  The Kao Yot Small-Scale Fishery Community Enterprise participated in marine conservation projects, such as releasing aquatic animals and mangrove planting initiatives. These activities contribute to the sustainable management and protection of marine and coastal ecosystems.

Marine Research and Innovation for Health

TU also prioritizes the advancement of marine science and technology, which serves as the foundation for the sustainable use of resources. A prominent example is the Project for Academic Article Development and Conference: Academic Service Article on Blue Spirulina, a Powerful Food Source from the Sea by the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences. This article focuses on researching and disseminating knowledge about Blue Spirulina, a marine resource with high potential for development into health supplements. This effort demonstrates the university’s investment in research to promote ocean health and the sustainable utilization of marine biological resources for human benefit.

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SDG 13 in Numbers

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Research in SDG 13

Based on an analysis of 324 publications from 2020 to 2024, Thammasat University’s research on SDG 13 focuses heavily on climate policy modeling, energy transition, and local resilience efforts, particularly within Thailand and the Greater Mekong Sub-region (GMS). The university’s work is organized around three main pillars:

1. Macro-Policy and National GHG Mitigation Modeling: A primary research pillar involves analyzing and modeling large-scale national and industrial efforts to meet climate targets. This includes extensive modeling of Thailand’s pathways to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, assessing long-term GHG mitigation strategies beyond 2030, and developing mitigation scenarios for key industrial sectors like the cement industry. This policy-oriented research also examines the role of financial tools, such as the social cost of carbon, in shaping effective climate policy for Thailand.
   
2. Sustainable Energy and Waste Transition: The second cluster focuses on the technological and systemic shiftsrequired for decarbonization. This includes a strong emphasis on the circular economy through Waste-to-Energy (WtE) technologies and the sustainable use of biomass for fuel and power generation, supported by carbon footprint analysis of supply chains. Researchers also investigate forward-looking solutions such as Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) and technologies for reducing emissions from the transport sector, including the promotion of electric vehicles.
   
3. Climate Impact, Vulnerability, and Local Resilience: A third key area addresses the on-the-ground effects of climate change and strategies for adaptation. This work involves assessing coastal vulnerability in provinces like Nakhon Sri Thammarat and Krabi, and developing participatory toolkits for enhancing community resilience in areas like the Bangkok Metropolitan Region. The research also explores the broader impacts of climate change on public health, such as mental health, and analyzes land use changes, including forest cover and carbon storage in regions like Nan Province.

Synthesis and Impact 

Collectively, this research demonstrates a multi-scalar approach, addressing climate action from high-level national policy down to local community adaptation. The work is geographically concentrated on Thailand, with specific case studies in key regions and a strong collaborative focus on the GMS. This research directly informs policymakers, industry stakeholders, and local communities, and is supported by a robust network of national collaborators (NSTDA, Chulalongkorn University) and international partners (Japan’s NIES, US Department of Energy), positioning Thammasat as a central knowledge hub for climate action in the region.

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Outreach and Academic Services in SDG 13

In 2024, Thammasat University addressed the critical and multifaceted challenges of climate change through seven targeted academic and social service initiatives aligned with SDG 13. These projects underscore a sophisticated, dual-pronged strategy that balances climate change mitigation with crucial adaptation and resilience-building efforts. By engaging directly with key industrial sectors, academia, and the wider community, the university is fostering a holistic response to one of the most pressing issues of our time. The university’s efforts are organized into two key clusters:

1. Driving Climate Mitigation through Green Transition and Industrial Accountability (5 activities)
   A significant portion of the university’s work focused on climate mitigation by directly targeting major sources of greenhouse gas emissions. Recognizing the transport sector’s substantial environmental footprint, the Sirindhorn International Institute of Technology (SIIT) and the Faculty of Economics led initiatives to accelerate Thailand’s green transition. They hosted specialized workshops and policy-oriented seminars on electric vehicle (EV) technology and the strategic adjustments needed to maintain the competitiveness of modern automotive industries in a low-carbon future. Simultaneously, the Faculty of Engineering provided crucial technical expertise to key industrial players, helping them align with national climate goals. This included conducting in-depth projects on greenhouse gas (GHG) management for the oil and gas sector and performing comprehensive GHG emissions assessments for the Rubber Authority of Thailand. These actions move beyond mere measurement, providing the foundational data necessary for these industries to develop credible decarbonization roadmaps and enhance their corporate accountability.
   
2. Building Resilience and Adapting to Climate Impacts (2 activities)
   Recognizing that some climate impacts are now unavoidable, the university also focused on bolstering societal resilience, particularly concerning disaster preparedness and effective response. The Faculties of Political Science and Liberal Arts hosted interdisciplinary academic seminars exploring the multifaceted impacts of natural disasters. These discussions went deep into the political science of disaster management, analyzing the effectiveness of governance structures, institutional coordination, and policy implementation during climate-related crises. In parallel, they explored disaster narratives in literature and contemporary media, examining how storytelling shapes public perception, influences community behavior, and fosters a collective memory of risk. This approach fosters a deeper, more nuanced public understanding of climate risks and promotes the development of more effective, people-centric governance and communication strategies for building lasting community resilience in the face of escalating climate-related events.

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Driving Sustainable Policy and Legislation

Research and Innovation for Mitigation

Adaptation and Resilience Building

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