Dr. Chana Poomee, Chairman of the Thai Cement Manufacturers Association (TCMA), and Dr. Kitipong Promwong, Director of the Office of National Higher Education Science Research and Innovation Policy Council (NXPO), have signed the "Memorandum of Understanding on Collaborative Action on Climate Change to Develop a Net Zero Emission Innovation Zone in SARABURI SANDBOX."
Dr. Poomee highlighted that the MOU marks a significant advancement in collaborative efforts towards establishing SARABURI SANDBOX as a low carbon city. The partnership aims to propel the cement industry with innovations and technologies necessary for the energy transition, targeting Thailand's 2050 Net Zero Cement and Concrete goals. It also seeks to leverage both domestic and international networks to foster an innovation zone dedicated to Net Zero Emissions in SARABURI SANDBOX.
"The inaugural project under this collaboration is 'CO2 to Methanol', which involves extensive cooperation across technology development, value chains, and regulatory frameworks. The outcomes will enhance operations in SARABURI SANDBOX, particularly through developing Carbon Capture Utilisation (CCU) technology in the cement sector to form a CO2 value chain and attract international funding. By converting CO2 to Methanol and other products, we aim to significantly boost the green economy. This initiative will also create sustainable production processes, add new value to CO2 and other wastes, and reduce CO2 emissions simultaneously. We estimate that the CCU technology could help reduce Thailand's greenhouse gas emissions by up to 12 million tonnes of CO2 annually," explained Dr. Poomee.
Dr. Promwong discussed the backdrop of the MOU, noting NXPO's role as Thailand's national designated entity for facilitating technology transfer and development under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). He emphasised that attending the Conference of the Parties (COP) annually has reinforced the importance of technology and innovation in achieving Net Zero Emissions and improving access to international support mechanisms. To reduce reliance on foreign climate technologies, NXPO recognises the need for pilot areas like SARABURI SANDBOX, which will enhance national capabilities and demonstrate Thailand’s commitment to targeted technological and innovative advancements. These national efforts are intended to improve Thailand's access to international support and make a significant impact, particularly in a province like Saraburi where cement production dominates and urgently requires technological solutions for energy transition and Net Zero Emission achievements.
Dr. Poomee concluded, "This collaboration between TCMA and NXPO will forge a clear and impactful route for the development of innovation and technology, facilitating a local transition to Net Zero Emissions, and establishing the Net Zero Emission innovation zone in SARABURI SANDBOX where innovation, technology, and financial resources are integrated at both national and international levels."