At the heart of Thailand’s aviation sector buzz is Bangchak Corporation’s groundbreaking leadership in the realm of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Their groundbreaking strides took the spotlight during the SAF Readiness in Thailand panel discussion at the Thai Aviation Sustainability Day, elegantly hosted at the Stock Exchange of Thailand. Taking the stage for Bangchak was the eloquent Mrs. Gloyta Nathalang, Senior Executive Vice President of Sustainability Management and Corporate Communications. She underscored Bangchak’s tireless dedication to transforming used cooking oil into SAF, marking a significant leap in Thailand’s green energy odyssey.
Through its ambitious arm, BSGF Co., Ltd., Bangchak has embarked on an exhilarating journey by investing a whopping THB 8.5 billion to amplify SAF production at their Phra Khanong refinery. With the magic set to unfold in early Q2 2025, the refinery is poised to churn out an astounding one million liters of sustainable fuel each day. A testament to their ingenuity is their national raw material collection extravaganza, spotlighting campaigns like No Refry in collaboration with the Department of Health and the catchy Fry to Fly movement. The latter partners with eateries, malls, convention centers, and an array of local entities to harness used cooking oil, with 281 Bangchak service stations doubling up as collection havens.
In a heartwarming twist, the Fry to Fly initiative has spread its wings through a collaboration with the Bai Mai Pan Suk Foundation. They’ve ingeniously set up collection hubs at schools, weaving students and families into this eco-friendly tapestry. The aim? To slash greenhouse gas emissions, propelling Bangchak closer to its audacious 2050 Net Zero GHG Emissions target, marching in lockstep with Thailand’s 2065 national agenda.
During the illustrious panel, Mrs. Gloyta mesmerized the audience with insights into the strategic roadmap for SAF in Thailand. She delved into the tantalizing opportunities and formidable challenges of local SAF production, underscoring the vital role of conducive policies. Bangchak’s SAF crusade promises not just to turbocharge the aviation industry’s green credentials but also to catapult Thailand to the forefront of clean energy prowess in Southeast Asia.
In this dance of sustainability, Bangchak is more than just a dancer; they are a conductor in the symphony of green innovations, inspiring a generation and charting a sustainable path for future aviators.
I’m thrilled to see Bangchak leading the charge with sustainable aviation fuel. It’s about time someone made a big move in the aviation industry. What do you think will be the biggest hurdle in getting more companies to adopt SAF?
The biggest hurdle is definitely cost. Many companies are hesitant to invest without guarantees of a return. Plus, regulatory support varies globally.
Absolutely, and it will require a global effort, not just national or regional. Incentives might help push the transition along.
But isn’t it worth the investment for the planet’s future? Businesses need to look beyond short-term gains.
I agree with EcoWarrior77, but also, the challenge of collecting sufficient feedstock like used cooking oil is pretty big.
Does turning cooking oil into aviation fuel actually save that much carbon? Sounds like just another corporate greenwashing tactic to me.
The Fry to Fly initiative is so innovative! Teaching young kids the importance of sustainability is the key to a greener future. What are your thoughts on involving schools?
Involving schools is crucial. It’s all about shaping young minds. If we want systemic change, education is the way.
Exactly! Plus, it’s an engaging way for students to learn practical environmental responsibility.
It’s a great concept, but schools already have so much on their plates. I wonder if it’ll add extra pressure?
These initiatives sound amazing, but why is the starting output only one million liters a day? Feels like a small drop in the ocean with global aviation demands.
True, but every effort counts. Scaling up renewable energy takes time and careful planning.
Makes sense, but I hope they have plans to ramp up production quickly if it proves successful.
Isn’t there a risk of restaurants just selling off used oil instead of properly disposing it, leading to negative health impacts?
Bangchak’s plan sounds great but turning cooking oil into jet fuel… can we really fly with fries?
It’s more viable than you might think. SAFs are rigorously tested and certified for safety and performance.
Still hard to wrap my head around it. I wonder about long-term efficiency compared to conventional fuels.
Southeast Asia needs this kind of leadership. Bravo to Bangchak for taking the first step towards a sustainable future!
It’s refreshing to see an energy company committing to real change, but do they plan to address any potential environmental impacts from refinery expansion?
Refineries and sustainability don’t typically go hand in hand. How is Bangchak ensuring the refineries themselves are not harming the environment?
Good point, EcoNerd. These efforts won’t mean much if the refineries aren’t eco-friendly themselves.
I’m intrigued by the no refry initiative. Does this involve enforcement or just cooperation with businesses?
Mostly cooperation, I think. It’s about voluntary participation and raising awareness in the community.
Mrs. Nathalang seems pretty inspiring. Nice to see a female leader making waves in the industry.