On October 2, 2024, Dr. Witchuda Daud, Director of the Advanced Polymer Technology Research Group, and Dr. Kittinan Annanon, Research Specialist in the Environmental Research Group at the National Metal and Materials Technology Center (MTEC), NSTDA, were invited as speakers to attend the ASEAN Circular Economy Forum 2024. The event was organized by the ASEAN Center for Sustainable Development Studies and Dialogue (ACSDSD) at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center. In her lecture, Dr. Wichuda shared her experiences, insights, and perspectives on the potential of Thailand’s regional integration and cooperation on Circular Economy (CE) Initiatives, Circular Economy (CE) design solutions, and best practices for engaging with the industry/private sector under the central theme of “The Circular Economy in ASEAN – Harnessing the Potential of Regional Integration and Cooperation.” Meanwhile, Dr. Kittinan participated in the panel discussion on “Comprehensive Circularity for Electronics – Using the Full Range of Circular Strategies,” contributing knowledge and experiences and exchanging opinions on reducing the environmental impact of electronic devices, government participation in promoting product life extension and management, creating product safety, and social responsibility.
The ASEAN Circular Economy Forum (ACEF) is a significant annual gathering for the ASEAN policy community. It serves as a platform for collaboration on strategies for promoting a circular economy through national policies and regional initiatives. This forum also brought together government representatives and ASEC officials from the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) to examine the extensive impact of climate change, which influences every dimension of sustainable development. ACEF is distinguished by its focus on the circular economy, ASEAN integration, cooperation, stakeholder engagement, and broad participation from government entities.
