The Sustainability Expo (SX) 2024 returns to Thailand in its fifth year, cementing its reputation as ASEAN’s largest platform for sustainability, innovation, and collaboration. This grand event, set to run from Sept 27 to Oct 6 at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC) in Bangkok, promises to be a beacon of inspiration under the theme “Sufficiency for Sustainability.” Drawing from King Rama IX’s Sufficiency Economy Philosophy (SEP) and King Rama X’s commitment to continuing his father’s legacy, SX 2024 is an extraordinary gathering powered by five leading corporations: Frasers Property (Thailand) Public Co, PTT Public Co, SCG, ThaiBev, and Thai Union Group Public Co.
SX 2024 aims to inspire businesses, governments, and individuals to coalesce in the pursuit of a sustainable future. The philosophy of SEP emphasizes balance, moderation, and responsible consumption, aligning harmoniously with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs). By intertwining traditional wisdom with modern innovations through the event’s theme “Good Balance, Better World,” SX 2024 aspires to bring this philosophy to life.
The expo will feature a staggering lineup of over 270 exhibitors from both Thailand and abroad, showcasing industries at the forefront of sustainable innovation. Adding to the allure, more than 600 expert speakers from across the globe will illuminate various aspects, from sustainable development and emerging technologies to inventive solutions for combating climate change.
Attendees can dive into a plethora of workshops, seminars, and hands-on activities designed to arm them with the tools and knowledge to lessen their environmental impact. With such a rich variety of offerings, SX 2024 is not just a knowledge hub but a springboard for collaboration and action. Tongjai Thanachanan, SX director, proudly announced that the expo has not only persisted but thrived, even during the Covid-19 pandemic, by adopting a hybrid online-offline format.
According to Thanachanan, “The expo serves as a regional platform for sustainability, connecting diverse sectors and showcasing knowledge, innovations, and technologies that spark action and change.” She highlighted that the event operates on a B2C2B (business-to-consumer-to-business) model, which places the consumer at the epicenter of sustainability efforts, creating a cyclic feedback loop between businesses and consumers.
The expo has attracted more than 800,000 attendees over the past four events and generated over 60 million baht in revenue for local communities and participating vendors. This year, with more than 600 global experts, over 270 leading companies, and a strong emphasis on cross-sector collaboration, the focus will be on fostering meaningful discussions and learning within the social enterprise community.
Here’s a sneak peek into the five highlight zones at SX 2024, each offering unique perspectives and immersive experiences:
SEP Inspiration Zone: The Heart of Sustainability
Strategically located on the G Floor, this zone draws attention to natural crises through the lens of the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy. Under the theme “The World Has Changed,” it delves into the severe impacts of rising global temperatures on ecosystems and communities. Visitors can experience:
- Zone A: Mirror Walkway – “Reflection of Impact”: A tunnel featuring reflective imagery that showcases the stark realities of climate change.
- Zone B: Immersive Theatre – “Point of No Return!”: A thought-provoking theatre experience underscoring irreversible changes wrought by human actions.
- Zone C: Hope & Helps – “Adaptation”: A dedicated space exploring adaptive strategies for a changing world.
Better Me Zone: Health and Well-being
This zone is all about sustainable living, starting with personal health and well-being. Highlights include:
- Healthy & Happy Living: Expert advice on nutrition and a balanced lifestyle from organisations like the Food Institute, the Heart Association of Thailand, and Nestle.
- Dementia and Alzheimer’s Prevention: Innovations like the i-Exc Game Interaction Exercise from Chulalongkorn Hospital that aim to slow cognitive decline and promote mental health. Life planning tools from Cheevamitr, including “Live Well-Die Well,” will also be featured.
Better Living Zone: Environmental Innovations
Focused on combating climate change, this zone highlights actions to mitigate environmental damage:
- Thai Beverage Public Co’s “Water of Life”: An exhibit emphasizing water conservation and the importance of water quality and replenishment.
- Thai Union Group’s SeaChange® 2030 strategy: Demonstrating sustainable seafood practices across the supply chain.
- HINO DUTRO Z EV: Showcasing a fully electric truck as part of the transition to sustainable transportation solutions.
Better Community Zone: Building Social Resilience
This zone explores social, environmental, and economic projects that have successfully created better communities. Visitors can engage in small group discussions, workshops, and interactive exhibits:
- Learning Society: Promoting lifelong learning and youth development through collaborative community initiatives.
- Caring City: Designs for inclusive and safe urban spaces aimed at enhancing the quality of life for all residents.
- Art-Driven City: Showcasing how art and culture can drive economic growth and community development through festivals and managed creative spaces.
Better World Zone: Art and Environmental Awareness
This zone celebrates art as a powerful medium for raising environmental awareness. Visitors can explore various artistic expressions focused on sustainability:
- ASEAN SX Photo Contest 2024: Featuring photographers from ten ASEAN countries, this contest delves into themes of biodiversity and environmental conservation.
- TRASH to TREASURE Art & Design Contest: Showcasing art pieces made from recycled materials that explore biodiversity and sustainable practices.
Get ready to be inspired, educated, and motivated to contribute to a more sustainable future at SX 2024!
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