NXPO and Thailand Science Research and Innovation (TSRI) jointly hosted the second meeting of the Science Research and Innovation (SRI) Consortium for Net Zero on 14 March 2024 at the Mandarin Hotel Bangkok. Inaugurated by TSRI Vice President Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pongpan Kaewtatip, the meeting was attended by representatives from both the public and private sectors.   

NXPO Vice President Dr. Surachai Sathitkunarat stated that the consortium was a result of extensive discussions among NXPO, TSRI and stakeholders from various sectors, aiming to bring the nation to meet its net zero target. Through the consortium, NXPO and TSRI aim to gather information and insights from stakeholders regarding technological development for strategizing policy and planning, removing regulatory barriers, and prioritizing research funds to advance net zero emissions and carbon neutrality objectives.  

The consortium will foster closer collaboration among various agencies and provide an opportunity to engage with the Department of Climate Change and Environment (DCCE) under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment to turn the consortium’s ideas into practical solutions. 

“This second meeting serves as a platform for exchanging information between the demand and supply sides on technological advancements and innovations. It is essential for net zero initiatives to be led by the private sector, with support from the government and academia. This platform will strengthen ongoing cooperation, initiate new activities, and enhance information exchange to drive towards the net zero goal,” remarked Dr. Surachai. 

During the meeting, various topics were presented and discussed. Representatives from Linde Thailand and BIG highlighted the opportunities and challenges of low carbon hydrogen, while TSRI Senior Expert Dr. Pongvipa Lohsomboon reported on the progress of Thailand’s CCUS Technology Roadmap. Dr. Kajornsak Faungnawakij from the National Nanotechnology Center outlined the development of carbon capture and utilization technology, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Amornchai Arpornwichanop from Chulalongkorn University discussed carbon dioxide capture process simulation. 

Recognizing the potential of Thai universities in driving the net zero agenda, NXPO and the Council of University Presidents of Thailand initiated the “Net Zero Campus” to facilitate innovation development as well as technology transfer and localization. The initiative has been expanded to include TSRI and DCCE, pooling resources and expertise to implement net zero projects at the national level. A seminar and launch event for the Net Zero Campus is scheduled for 28 March 2024.