Khon Kaen University (KKU) announces its goal to achieve Carbon Neutrality by 2029, focusing on self-sufficient carbon offsetting and developing future mechanisms for generating carbon credits. This pioneering project serves as a leading model for environmental responsibility among higher education institutions in Thailand and Southeast Asia, creating a legacy of sustainability for society and the region, and reaffirming the university’s strategy for social responsibility and sustainability.
On Thursday, 12 February 2026, at 14:30 hrs, in the lobby on the first floor of the Sirikunakorn Building, Office of the President., Khon Kaen University hosted a press conference to formally announce the university’s commitment to carbon neutrality.
Assoc. Prof. Charnchai Panthongviriyakul, M.D., KKU President, officially delivered the Declaration of Intent for a Carbon Neutral University. He was joined by university executives, including Asst. Prof. Tala Thammaroj, M.D., Vice President for Administration; Assoc. Prof. Choopong Thongkamsamut, Ph.D., Vice President for Physical Ecosystem and Environment; and Prof. Thidarut Boonmars, D.V.M., Ph.D., Vice President for Enterprise and Societal Sustainability.
Also participating were private sector executives: Mr. Samir Yamdagni, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the HYAPSS Joint Venture, and Mr. Nakarin Saintngamsathit, Executive Vice President of the HYAPSS Joint Venture.
Representatives from government and local authorities graced the ceremony, including Mr. Thongchai Muangsonthi, Khon Kaen Provincial Industry Officer; Mr. Surachai Sinprakorb, Khon Kaen Provincial Energy Officer; Mr. Chairat Pathumnanagul, Deputy Mayor of Khon Kaen City Municipality; Mr. Soraworn Dansermsuk, Deputy Mayor of Ban Ped Town Municipality; and Mr. Pisarn Khamya, Deputy Mayor of Ban Tum Town Municipality. University executives, and representatives from the public, private, and media sectors were also in attendance.
Declaration of Carbon Neutrality by the KKU President
The Declaration of Khon Kaen University’s Carbon Neutrality, delivered by the KKU President, is as follows:
For decades, Khon Kaen University has continuously driven clean energy policies in line with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). We have made concerted efforts across several fronts, including food waste management, tree planting, the introduction of EV buses, the development of clean energy buildings, and the implementation of solar energy systems.
Today, we take another significant step forward with the installation of a solar power system, incorporating both ground-mounted (Solar Farm) and floating (Floating Solar) facilities. With a total capacity of 30 megawatt-peak (MWp), this represents the largest clean energy generation project in Thailand’s Northeast region. This initiative will not only reduce electricity costs and decrease reliance on the traditional grid but also establish clean energy security within the university campus.
These operations systematically align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 7, Affordable and Clean Energy; SDG 13, Climate Action; SDG 15, Life on Land (supporting the sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems); and SDG 17, Partnerships for the Goals (cooperation for sustainable goals). This project acts as one of the key strategies for tangibly reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Khon Kaen University is now ready to announce its firm commitment: we will achieve Carbon Neutral University status by 2029. We intend to establish this legacy of sustainability for future generations and the people of the Northeast. We will serve as a model university responsible to the world, demonstrating to the global community that innovation and dedication to society can advance securely and sustainably together.
Khon Kaen University continues its role as a Green University by consistently driving clean energy policies, including food waste management, tree planting, electric vehicle transport, the development of energy-efficient buildings, and the solar power system. The installation of the 30 MWp Solar Farm and Floating Solar is recognised as a leading project in Thailand and Southeast Asia, reinforcing energy security and substantially reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
These operations align with the SDGs concerning clean energy, climate action, ecosystem preservation, and development partnerships. This reaffirms Khon Kaen University’s commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2029, acting as a prototype higher education institution responsible for the environment, and establishing a stable legacy of sustainability for society and the region.
News: Benjamaporn Mamook
Photography: Natthawut Charuwong / Punnawaj Khuntip (4th Year Co-operative Education Trainee, Thai Language Programme, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Khon Kaen University)
