Polymer Innovations Take Center Stage at Thailand LAB INTERNATIONAL 2024: Paving the Path to Carbon Neutrality and Net Zero

The Polymer Society of Thailand (PST) hosted a highly informative session titled “Polymer Innovations in Biomass Utilization: Pathways to Carbon Neutrality, Net Zero, and Beyond” at the Thailand LAB INTERNATIONAL 2024, held at LAB Square in the BITEC Exhibition and Convention Center. This session, conducted in Thai, explored the pivotal role of polymers in biomass utilization and their significant contribution to achieving carbon neutrality and net-zero targets.

Opening the session was Assoc. Prof. Dr. Taweechai Amornsakchai, President of the Polymer Society of Thailand and a professor at Mahidol University. He emphasized the importance of polymer innovations in addressing global sustainability challenges, particularly in reducing carbon emissions and creating a circular economy.

Following the opening address, the session featured distinguished speakers from academia and industry:

• Ms. Kanchana Inchanan, Senior Manager of the Research and Development Department for Composites and Electrical Applications at Aditya Birla Chemicals (Thailand) Ltd., highlighted the company’s advancements in composite materials and their integration into environmentally sustainable practices.

• Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ittipon Jangchud, from King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology Ladkrabang, presented the latest research on polymer applications for biomass utilization, emphasizing the technological breakthroughs that are enabling more efficient and scalable carbon reduction solutions.

• Dr. Siwarat Boonyaratkalin, Assistant Director of Innovation at Siam Modified Starch Co., Ltd., discussed how modified starches are contributing to more sustainable industrial processes and products, with a focus on their environmental impact and industrial viability.

• Assoc. Prof. Dr. Phanya Sunintaboon, from Mahidol University, offered insights into the future of polymer science in Thailand, highlighting the potential for further innovation in the realm of sustainable materials and biomass utilization.

Throughout the session, the speakers stressed the critical need for collaboration between industry and academia in driving the innovations necessary for achieving long-term sustainability goals. The use of polymers in biomass utilization is expected to be a key driver for Thailand’s shift toward a low-carbon economy and a cleaner, greener future.

The Polymer Society of Thailand (PST) expressed its gratitude to all participants and attendees for their engagement and contributions, making the session a key highlight of this year's Thailand LAB INTERNATIONAL 2024. As the world focuses on carbon neutrality and beyond, the role of polymer innovations in biomass utilization will remain central to these global efforts.