On 5 June 2026, the Faculty of Environment and Resource Studies, Mahidol University, organized the special forum "NEXT MOVE TO NET ZERO: Preparing Organizations for the Low-Carbon Era" as part of the ENVI Mahidol–School Hackathon and ENVI Mahidol Open House World Environment Day 2026, held in celebration of World Environment Day at the Environmental Development Building, Mahidol University, Salaya Campus, Nakhon Pathom.
The forum brought together distinguished speakers from both industry and academia to exchange perspectives on accelerating the transition toward Net Zero. The panel featured Dr. Suwanit Boonyasuwat, Member of the BCG Model Working Group, The Federation of Thai Industries; Dr. Patima Sinthuphinyo, Lead of ESG Governance & Integration, SCG; and Associate Professor Dr. Kitikorn Charmondusit, Dean of the Faculty of Environment and Resource Studies, Mahidol University. The discussion was moderated by Assistant Professor Dr. Aran Srirattana Tabucanon, Associate Dean for Education and International Relations.
During the forum, the speakers emphasized that climate change is increasingly affecting economies, societies, and people's quality of life through more frequent and severe droughts, floods, heatwaves, wildfires, and air pollution. These challenges underscore the urgent need for all sectors to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while strengthening resilience and adaptation to a changing climate.
The panel also stressed that achieving Net Zero extends beyond environmental responsibility. It has become a critical factor in economic competitiveness as global trade regulations, Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) expectations, and consumer preferences continue to evolve. Organizations capable of effectively managing and reducing their carbon emissions will be better positioned to compete in the future economy.
Furthermore, the transition to a low-carbon society requires sustained investment in clean technologies, renewable energy, innovation, and workforce development. Equally important is the integration of environmental sustainability, ESG, and Net Zero principles into educational systems to cultivate awareness and equip young people with the knowledge and skills needed to lead future sustainability efforts.
The speakers also highlighted the importance of strong collaboration among government agencies, the private sector, educational institutions, local communities, and the public. They emphasized that organizational leaders play a crucial role in establishing a clear vision, setting measurable sustainability goals, and implementing effective monitoring mechanisms to ensure meaningful and lasting progress.
The forum demonstrated that achieving Net Zero requires long-term commitment, continuous collaboration, and coordinated action across all sectors. Above all, investment in education and human capital was identified as the foundation for building a low-carbon society and securing a sustainable future.
A key takeaway from the discussion was the shared message that "Achieving Net Zero is not the responsibility of any single sector—it is a collective responsibility. The most valuable investment we can make is in education and people, empowering future generations to build a more sustainable society and a healthier planet."
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