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As the Earth clamors under the weight of our collective footprint, it finds itself at the mercy of an accelerating climate crisis. Volatile weather patterns dance across the globe, leaving tales of drought, hunger, and health crises in their wake. The stage is set, and the grand act to halt our collective mercury rise at a 1.5 degrees Celsius encore before this century’s end plays out under the watchful eye of the Paris Agreement. An international ensemble gathers, each nation a player in this high-stakes performance, to combat an invisible yet formidable adversary: greenhouse gasses.
Enter the Thai Cement Manufacturers Association (TCMA), taking center stage to convene the 44th Council Meeting of the ASEAN Federation of Cement Manufacturers (AFCM) at the luxurious Eastin Grand Hotel Sathorn, nestled in the heart of bustling Bangkok, from November 23-25, 2023. Dr. Chana Poomee, an orchestrator of industrial harmony and chairman of the TCMA, is a beacon of pride as he declares the resurgence of AFCM’s in-person symposiums—a historical moment not witnessed since before the whispers of a global pandemic hushed the corridors of such gatherings back in Singapore, 2019.
The event is buzzing with an air of fraternity as delegates arrive, hailing from seven AFCM member states. Here we find Butra HeidelbergCement Sdn Bhd rubbing shoulders with giants like the Indonesia Cement Association (ICA) and the Cement & Concrete Association of Malaysia (C&CA). From the Philippines to Vietnam, the ASEAN cement contingent is out in full force. Let’s not forget the observer from Cambodia, bringing fresh insights and cementing the bonds of ASEAN unity.
Since 1977, the ASEAN Federation of Cement Manufacturers has been the cornerstone for collaboration among these cementing pioneers. It’s a melting pot for the exchange of robust business strategies, technical know-hows, and enduring partnerships. Anchored by a rotating presidency, with Malaysia at the helm, the federation’s mission is to pave the way for progress in the cement sector across the region.
This year’s convocation isn’t just about handshakes and head nods. It’s a timely theme, “ASEAN Cement Collaboration Towards Decarbonization,” which captures the essence of the epoch we’re in. The agenda overflows with visionary strategies: slashing greenhouse gas emissions through innovation, embracing alternative materials, and kindling the flames of alternative energy solutions to diminish the old coal and fossil titans. The concept of a circular economy isn’t just a phrase – it’s the script for the future.
Dr. Chana’s eyes gleam as he unwraps the potential of these talks, empowering the ASEAN cement industry to waltz in step with the global rhythm, in tune with the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and its grand crescendo to keep the global temperature in check.
The 44th Council Meeting is more than a local affair; it’s a harmonious fusion of regional efforts with global virtuosos like the Global Cement and Concrete Association (GCCA). Together, they’re setting the stage for a transition that’s not merely sustainable but resonates with environmental, social governance melodies. Mr. Thomas Guillot of the GCCA steps into the spotlight, representing an astounding 80% of the world’s concrete narrative, weaving tales of solidarity in the fight against global warming.
As Dr. Chana points out, decarbonization isn’t just a lyrical tune—it’s an orchestra that demands every instrument, from the piccolo policies to the timpani of implementation mechanisms. The “Collaboration Towards Decarbonization” session isn’t just a discussion but a call to arms for concrete actions toward a greener cement industry, all the while ensuring that competitiveness remains the crescendo of their endeavors.
TCMA isn’t just talking the talk; they’re walking the walk towards a Net Zero 2050 with a tangible roadmap. You can almost hear the applause as Dr. Chana expresses his gratitude to the fellow AFCM members for supporting Thailand’s commitment to a low-emission revolution. It’s about connectivity—industry, academia, and civil society all joining in an alliance for what will become the magnum opus of their time. Strategy, cooperation, and understanding are the keynotes for triumph, harnessing investments and shaping an industry that’s not just smart, but sustainably spectacular.
As the curtains close on the AFCM 2023, vitality and anticipation buzz through the air. A ceremonial garland, rich in Thai tradition, is passed to Vietnam, the next curator of this symphony of industry. The spirit of cooperation lingers as the members look towards the AFCM 45th Meeting and 22nd Conference, to pen the next chapter of ASEan cement history.
Dr. Chana, embodying the very essence of Thai hospitality and grace, sends forth waves of gratitude to all participants. As the epitaph of this significant occasion, he reveals a commitment to interweaving the diverse threads of AFCM member countries toward the shared vision of a decarbonized future. There’s a reverent pause as they reflect on the successes, the building of bridges (both literal and metaphorical), and the promise of continued collaboration on this consequential global odyssey.
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