On August 21, 2023, at the Centara Grand Ladprao Bangkok, Thailand, Dr. Pimpa Limthongkul, Director of the Energy Innovation Research Group, Dr. Nuwong Chollacoop, Director of the Low Carbon Energy Research Group and Dr. Lily Eurwilaichitr, Assistant Executive Director, actively participated in the “ASEAN-Japan Innovation Week: Innovative Technologies in Achieving Carbon Neutrality towards ASEAN Green Economy.” This event was organized by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI-Thailand) from August 21st to 24th, 2023. The primary objective of this event was to establish a platform that stimulates intellectual discourse, propelling the utilization of ASEAN’s roadmap advantages. The focus was on progressing strategies concerning ASEAN’s Carbon Neutrality and expanding collaborative outcomes in science, technology, and innovation among representatives from ASEAN member nations, partner countries, and the ASEAN Secretariat.
In the morning’s session, Dr. Pimpa Limthongkul delivered a keynote presentation on ‘Innovative Technologies to Accelerate the Transition to a Carbon Neutral Economy.’ This presentation showcased ongoing research activities conducted by the Energy Innovation Research Group at ENTEC. The projects such as BATT SWAP, which sought to enhance the automotive industry’s capabilities through the development of a swappable battery platform for electric motorcycles, took center stage. Another remarkable initiative showcased was the collaborative energy storage technology network known as Thailand Energy Storage Technology Association (TESTA). The association aims to help connect stakeholders, educate general public, promote understanding and nurture technological advancement on energy storage technology in Thailand. These projects echoed the commitment of ENTEC towards paving the path for a sustainable future on energy.
Furthermore, Dr. Nuwong Chollacoop assumed the role of moderator for the Panel Discussion centered around the Current COSTI Initiatives supporting the ASEAN Strategy for Carbon Neutrality. Notable among these initiatives are ASEAN Talent Mobility, ASEAN Technology Management Hub and ASEAN BCG Network which is managed by NSTDA. This discussion brought together a prominent representative from diverse local and international organizations to explore how existing initiatives align with ASEAN’s carbon-neutral goals. Consequently, the session emphasized the critical importance of fostering robust collaboration and active participation as indispensable elements for effectively attaining our shared carbon neutrality objectives.
During the afternoon, Dr. Lily and Dr. Nuwong were involved in the JASTIP Session, which aimed to guide the process of co-creating joint research projects through STI Coordination with a focus on achieving Carbon Neutrality. They attended presentations of three initiatives research projects and actively took part in roundtable discussions that followed each proposal. Later on, Dr. Nuwong gave a presentation, sharing extra information about funding opportunities designed to encourage research activities that contribute to carbon neutrality in both ASEAN and Japan.
The event served as an exceptional platform for knowledge exchange and the establishment of partnerships among delegates representing ASEAN member nations, partner countries, and the ASEAN Secretariat. By uniting experts, visionaries, and innovators, this event marked a significant milestone in propelling the region towards a greener and more sustainable future.
