Visit this link for more information: https://dds.ait.ac.th/news/2024/03/13/nrm-ai-art-competition-for-celebrating-international-day-of-forests-2024/

AIT ensures sustainably farmed food on campus through its Purchasing Policy, particularly Item VII – Green Purchasing, which promotes the procurement of environmentally responsible goods and services. This provision requires the selection of suppliers and products that support sustainable sourcing, resource efficiency, and environmentally sound production practices—including food and catering services. By embedding green purchasing principles into institutional procurement, AIT ensures that food provided on campus is sustainably farmed and aligned with its broader environmental commitments. This policy not only advances responsible consumption and production but also contributes to the protection of ecosystems and biodiversity in line with SDG 15 (Life on Land).

The Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) actively works to maintain and extend ecosystems and biodiversity through direct research, global partnerships, and conservation initiatives—particularly in safeguarding mangrove ecosystems, which are vital for coastal protection, carbon storage, and biodiversity. AIT’s engagement reflects its commitment to protecting ecosystems under threat and advancing scientific understanding for sustainable management.

A notable example of this commitment is the contribution of Dr. Donald Macintosh, who is affiliated with AIT, as a co-author of a major section on the Global Red List of Mangrove Ecosystems in the State of the World’s Mangroves 2024 report published by the Mangrove Action Project. This comprehensive study, led by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and involving over 250 scientists from 44 countries, assessed the condition and risks facing mangrove ecosystems using the Red List of Ecosystems (RLE) methodology. Dr. Macintosh’s contribution highlights AIT’s active role in advancing global conservation science and in developing policy-relevant research that supports restoration and adaptive management of ecosystems at risk .

As detailed in the report (Page 15), the Global Red List of Mangrove Ecosystems found that nearly half of the world’s mangrove provinces are threatened due to human activities and climate-induced impacts such as sea-level rise. These findings directly inform restoration, adaptation, and biodiversity protection efforts worldwide. Through AIT’s academic expertise and participation in such global conservation assessments, the institute contributes to shaping evidence-based strategies for sustaining mangrove biodiversity, enhancing ecosystem resilience, and protecting the livelihoods of coastal communities.

Refer to PDF Page 15 for AIT contribution to mangrove at risk

Highlights from the “Forum on Mitigating Plastic Pollution from Runoff” organized by UNEP, funded by the government of Japan @ Centara Life Hotel Bangkok Phra Nakhon from 29th October to 1st November 2024.

We are proud to share that Session 8 “Reducing Plastic Emissions in Agriculture: Potential for Decentralized Monitoring at Farming Communities” was chaired by Takuji W. Tsusaka.

Experts from the three focus countries (Cambodia, Vietnam, and Thailand) were invited to explore the potential of decentralized monitoring systems in reducing plastic waste in agriculture:

1. Nophea Sasaki (AIT and Sasin School of Management) “Sustainable Solutions for Reducing Plastic Emissions in Cambodia’s Agriculture”
2. Ho Nguyen Diem Tien (Tien Giang University and Chulalongkorn University) “Reducing Plastic Waste Emissions from Agriculture: Insights from Vietnam”
3. Arunswasdi Bhuridadtpong (Thai Network for Disaster Resilience) “Plasticulture in Agriculture: Potential for Decentralized Monitoring at Farming Communities in Thailand”

Key takeaways included:
1) Empowering farming communities with monitoring tools to track and reduce plastic emissions,
2) Fostering collaboration among stakeholders for regional solutions, and
3) Addressing challenges such as policy gaps and scalability by community-led initiatives.

The session highlighted the potential for community-driven solutions in controlling plastic waste emissions, fostering regional collaboration, and scaling sustainable practices for cleaner agriculture.

Reference: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/16Hx6p7eCp/

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Visit this link for more information: https://ait.ac.th/2024/01/symposium-on-rural-sustainability-in-the-asia-pacific-bridging-science-and-action/

Visit this link for more information: https://ofam.ait.ac.th/ait-nature-and-ecosystem/

The AIT (Asian Institute of Technology) demonstrates a comprehensive commitment to the conservation and protection of local biodiversity, including species listed on the IUCN Red List and national conservation lists. AIT’s Nature and Ecosystems Policy emphasizes its dedication to creating a green living environment that offers habitats for fish and wildlife species. Furthermore, the policy aims to maintain a significant portion of the campus as “no-touch” areas, allowing for the preservation of various species. The institution has set ambitious goals, such as managing individual trees to maintain a healthy ecosystem and undertaking the enrichment planting of native trees, particularly IUCN red-listed species. These initiatives reflect AIT’s proactive approach to monitoring, protecting, and enhancing the habitats of species in areas affected by the university’s operations. Reporting and oversight measures are in place through the Office of Facilities and Asset Management, the Sustainability Club, and the SU Campus & Environment unit, with the Vice President for Administration (VPA) responsible for this area.

In summary, AIT’s Nature and Ecosystems Policy aligns with the objective of identifying, monitoring, and safeguarding IUCN Red Listed and nationally listed conservation species in areas influenced by the university’s activities. Through this policy, AIT demonstrates a strong commitment to fostering biodiversity conservation and habitat protection, ensuring the coexistence of its campus operations with local wildlife and ecosystems.

Refer to Annex 5 – Nature and Ecosystems (Page 13)
Source: AA-1-2-9 AIT Sustainability Policy

The Building Design Guideline for AIT as a Botanical Campus (2024) demonstrates AIT’s institutional commitment to incorporating local biodiversity and ecological balance into every stage of its planning, design, and construction process. The document ensures that new developments harmonize with the natural landscape, preserve tree canopies, promote native planting, and integrate blue-green infrastructure to protect habitats and enhance ecosystem services. Through principles addressing building height relative to tree cover, permeable surfaces, flood-resilient landscape design, and responsible use of natural resources, AIT embeds biodiversity conservation within its built-environment framework. This guideline thus provides clear evidence that AIT systematically includes local biodiversity in all planning and development processes, aligning campus growth with the vision of a sustainable Botanical Garden Campus.

Visit this link for more information: https://ofam.ait.ac.th/ait-nature-and-ecosystem/

Field Lab 1 in Natural Resources Management (NRM)

NRM Field Lab 1 was conducted in Rayong Province by the faculty members and students on 6–8 October 2023.

The NRM team visited Baanwin Farm, which practices low-carbon farming techniques such as biochar production and application, IoT-based irrigation, and organic composting—all contributing to soil health and climate change mitigation.

Khao Hinsorn Royal Development Study Center demonstrated smart water management, self-sufficiency theory, reforestation, and integrated farming, enhancing ecosystem services and local livelihoods.

Suphattraland showcased the balance between fruit cultivation, rubber plantations, and tourism.

Phra Chedi Klang Nam Mangrove Learning Center and Rayong Botanical Garden emphasized the critical roles of mangroves and wetlands in supporting biodiversity, carbon storage, and climate resilience.

These field activities were beneficial for both local farmers and AIT students, inspiring new ideas for future research and practices.

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Visit this link for more info: https://ofam.ait.ac.th/ait-waste-water-treatment/

The Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) has made a resolute commitment to address plastic waste and promote sustainable waste management on its campus. The Solid Waste and Plastics Policy underscores AIT’s dedication to minimizing waste, avoiding the depletion of natural resources, and reducing environmental impact. AIT aims to achieve 100% waste segregation in academic areas by 2024 compared to the 2021 baseline and implement waste segregation in 50% of residential areas by 2024. Moreover, the institute has set ambitious goals for plastic waste reduction, aiming for a 100% zero plastic policy for non-biodegradable plastics by 2030. By 2025, AIT aims to reduce plastic use across the campus by 50%, with a target of zero single-use plastics starting in 2022. These measures align with AIT’s broader sustainability commitment, promoting responsible resource consumption and minimal waste generation.

Furthermore, AIT’s Internal Operations Policy extends sustainability efforts to the core operations and decision-making processes within the university. The policy seeks to institutionalize sustainable initiatives throughout management and decision-making activities, with a goal of increasing these initiatives by 20% across all units by 2026. AIT is also working on developing a paperless administrative system, further demonstrating its commitment to reducing resource consumption and promoting sustainable practices across all aspects of university operations.

Created on 8 Dec 2021
Comment: Please refer to Annex 4 – Solid Waste and Plastics (page 11) and Annex 12 – Internal Operations (page 27)
Source: AA-1-2-9 AIT Sustainability Policy

The Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) is deeply committed to environmental conservation and sustainability, as evident from its comprehensive AIT Environment Policy. This policy encompasses a wide array of objectives and practices designed to minimize environmental impacts across AIT’s operations. It emphasizes responsible waste management, efficient resource use, and the reduction of adverse environmental effects. The policy encourages the efficient and responsible use of resources, with an emphasis on preserving and enhancing the campus’s flora and fauna while minimizing waste production. These environmental commitments illustrate AIT’s dedication to environmentally sustainable practices and align with its broader mission to create a green and responsible campus environment.

Created in January 2013
Revised annually

As part of the Phase-1 implementation of the waste-management remodeling project, emphasis is placed on collecting the majority of plastic waste from the campus for recycling.

The Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) has demonstrated a strong commitment to environmental sustainability through its AIT Environment Policy. While the policy primarily focuses on water supply and resource management, it also reflects AIT’s dedication to responsible environmental practices across various aspects of campus life. The policy emphasizes minimizing environmental impacts, waste production, and hazardous waste. It advocates using resources efficiently and responsibly, all of which are principles that can be extended to the management of hazardous materials. This alignment with broader environmental goals highlights AIT’s commitment to environmental responsibility in various areas, including waste disposal and hazardous materials management.

Created on 8 Dec 2021
Comment: Refer to Annex-2 Waste Supply/Resource (page-09) and annex-3 Waste Water (page-10)
Source: AA-1-2-9 AIT Sustainability Policy

The Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) has a comprehensive environmental policy that covers waste disposal practices, including hazardous materials. The AIT Environment Policy reflects the institute’s commitment to environmental conservation and the minimization of environmental impacts resulting from its activities. The policy encompasses a wide range of objectives and measures to ensure responsible waste management, including the identification and responsible disposal of hazardous wastes on campus. AIT is dedicated to minimizing waste production through waste reduction, reuse, and recycling, in addition to regulating the treatment and disposal of solid and liquid waste. The policy also highlights the need to eliminate the release of pollutants through discharge controls and ongoing environmental impact assessments. Overall, AIT’s Environment Policy underscores the institute’s strong commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainability across its operations.

Created in January 2013
Reviewed annually

An e-waste management campaign was organized at AIT in 2024 to collect electrical and electronic waste from the campus. The collected waste was disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner and sent for recycling through Waste Management Siam Limited, a company certified for eco-friendly e-waste management.