Bangkok Initiative: Transforming Food Waste into Fire-Resistant Solutions

In the bustling heart of Bangkok, a dynamic collaboration unfolds, weaving together innovation, safety, and altruism in a striking tapestry of community spirit. At the center of this inspiring confluence are Bangkok’s esteemed Deputy Governors, Assoc. Prof. Tavida Kamolvej and the ever-enthusiastic Sanon Wangsrangboon. Their united presence at the HDF Mercy Centre in Khlong Toei district marked the initiation of an extraordinary project, poised to revolutionize not only the local area but potentially set a precedent on a much grander scale.

Sanon, with his eloquent charm, unveiled the core essence of the initiative, articulating the triad of pivotal focuses: enhancing safety, curbing food waste, and nurturing child development. “Early childhood care,” he explained, “hinges on two vital segments. First, the school environment, which thrives under the comprehensive support from the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), buoyed by government allocations.” His eyes lit up with passion as he spoke, making every word resonate with possibility.

The second frontier, as Sanon identified, lies within the daycare centers scattered across community areas. Here, despite their importance, the luxury of direct government funding is a rare commodity due to their private operations. Yet, the Deputy Governor’s optimism remained unshaken, gratitude spilling over as he acknowledged the myriad private partners whose collaboration is the lifeblood of the project. Chief among these is the HDF Mercy Centre, a bastion of care for young minds, where improved facilities are a pressing need.

“When our partners reached out,” Sanon continued, “our thoughts immediately converged on this beacon of hope – the HDF Mercy Centre. But the reality is, there are many more places crying out for similar interventions. I am sincerely thankful to all partners for joining forces in this pivotal cause.” His words struck a chord, underscoring the importance of collective action.

Enter the “Safe Schools, Free from Fire Hazards with Innovations from Food Waste” project, an audacious and unprecedented venture. This initiative marries the resources of BMA, the Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park Hotel, and key scientific bodies like the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI), the National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), and the National Nanotechnology Centre (NANOTEC). Together, they’ve embarked on transforming organic waste into impactful safety solutions tailored for the HDF Mercy Centre.

The project’s ingenious crux revolves around the transformation of organic waste—a process that begins in the polished kitchens of Goji Kitchen + Bar. Here, a staggering monthly wastage of oyster shells, reaching up to a tonne, becomes the unlikely hero. Through a meticulous waste management process, these shells embark on a scientific odyssey, facilitated by Dr. Chutiparn Lertvachirapaiboon’s expert team. Their groundbreaking work transfigures the shells into calcium carbonate, a cornerstone for the production of nano-calcium phosphate.

This newfound compound, versatile in both solid and liquid forms, holds the power to enhance surface safety. When dispersed in water and sprayed, nano-calcium hydrogen phosphate bestows materials with robust fire-retardant properties, extinguishing flames with ease and adhering to the highest UL94V-0 testing standards. A marvel of modern science breathed into life from once-disregarded waste.

In a magnificent coup de grâce, the talented individuals at Beger Group took these innovations a step further. By adept analysis and tireless trials, they’ve crafted “fire-retardant paint” from oyster shells, heralding a first-of-its-kind application for building safety in Thailand. This transformative product not only adds invaluable security but also champions sustainable practices by reimagining waste into community assets.

The grandeur of the occasion was matched by the presence of distinguished stakeholders, including Simon Bell, General Manager of the Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park Hotel, and Dr. Uracha Raktanonchai, director of NANOTEC. Their combined efforts, alongside Beger Group’s CEO, Dr. Worawat Chaiyosburana, and committed members from the BMA, Khlong Toei District Office, and HDF Mercy Centre exemplified the power of cross-sector collaboration. As the initiative takes flight, it promises not just enhanced safety and reduced waste but an enduring impact on the very fabric of community resilience.