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Walailak University has developed a sustainable waste management business for Pak Poon Municipality, significantly reducing daily waste from 18 tons to just 1.8 tons. This initiative has lowered waste disposal costs by 2.3 million baht annually while promoting environmental sustainability.  

Associate Professor Dr. Krisanadej Jaroensutasinee, Head of the Green Economy Waste Management Business Development Project for Pak Poon Municipality and Surrounding Economic Areas at Walailak University, highlighted that solid waste management is a pressing issue affecting the environment and residents' quality of life. Pak Poon Municipality, located in Nakhon Si Thammarat, has faced a continuous increase in waste generation, reaching 18 tons per day or 6,570 tons per year, with disposal costs as high as 2.7 million baht annually.  

To address this challenge, Walailak University collaborated with Pak Poon Municipality to survey, collect, and analyze data on local waste management systems. The project aimed to develop effective and sustainable waste management solutions using green technology and the green economy. Supported by the Program Management Unit on Area Based Development (PMU A), the initiative introduced environmentally friendly technologies and strategies to enhance sustainability.  

"Pak Poon Municipality has implemented a Community Waste Segregation policy, encouraging public participation from the source. This has successfully reduced waste disposal to just 1.8 tons per day or 657 tons per year—a tenfold decrease. Additionally, waste disposal costs have dropped to only 361,350 baht per year, saving the municipality up to 2.3 million baht annually," said Associate Professor Dr. Krisanadej.

This project marks a significant step in establishing a sustainable waste management system. Beyond cost reduction, it also increases the value of solid waste through various methods, such as using food scraps for animal feed, selling refuse-derived fuel (RDF) to The Siam Cement (Thung Song) Company Limited, converting organic waste into compost and biogas, and repurposing disposable diapers as landfill material. These measures not only reduce waste but also promote the circular economy concept.
 
In mid-March, the research team showcased their findings in an exhibition titled "Green Technology and Green Economy Innovations for Pak Poon Municipality." Held at Central Plaza Nakhon Si Thammarat, the event provided the public with knowledge and insights into sustainable waste management, fostering greater community engagement in developing an environmentally friendly city.   















News by Chonthicha Limpiti
Photos by Addeen Tulyapong
Translated and Edited by Settaboot Onphakdee
Division of Corporate Communication