The workshop, presided over by Watthanaphong Suksai, Director of the Phuket Natural Resources and Environment office (MNRE Phuket), was held at the Environmental Working Group meeting room at the offices of Phuket City Municipality’s Engineering Division
Addressing the attendees, Mr Watthanaphong highlighted the establishment of the Phuket Natural Resources and Environment Office Provincial climate change and biodiversity coordination centres. He emphasised that the office has been actively involved in the MNRE’s Capacity Development Project to combat climate change at the Phuket provincial level.
According to a study conducted by the office, Phuket Province emitted approximately 3.2 million tons of carbon dioxide equivalent in 2019. It is estimated that by 2030, this figure could rise to around 4.6 million tons.
In response, Phuket has set an ambitious goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 440,000 tons or 9.6% by 2030.
“This reduction will be achieved through measures such as increasing energy efficiency, alternative energy development, and improved management in various sectors including transportation and waste disposal,” Mr Watthanaphong said.
Preechapat Khanwilaikul, Chairman of the Phuket Provincial Natural Resources and Environment Network Committee, described the Low Emission Support Scheme (LESS) training workshop as a collaborative effort involving 11 organisations and agencies, including Phuket Rajabhat University.
The workshop’s objective is to familiarise all participating agencies and educational institutions with operational guidelines, focusing on achieving carbon neutrality or net zero emission goals, said an official report of the meeting.
The initiative aims to create a network of cooperation and knowledge exchange on greenhouse gas management for sustainable development. The workshop also covered topics such as carbon offset activities and guidelines for reporting greenhouse gas data and reduction projects.
“The integrated approach reflects Phuket’s commitment to addressing climate change and its impacts, fostering collaboration among various stakeholders, and promoting sustainable practices for a greener future,” said the official report.