Thai Union has achieved a monumental milestone in environmental sustainability, eliminating 100% of its wastewater discharge through innovative technologies at its fish plant in Thailand. The company plans to leverage this success by establishing a Zero Wastewater Discharge Learning Center, advocating for government policies supporting sustainable industrial development and solidifying its position as a responsible leader in the industry, as stated by Samut Sakorn.
Collaborating with the Program Management Unit for Competitiveness (PMUC), a division of Thailand’s Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research Innovation (MHESI), Thai Union Group PCL has announced the groundbreaking achievement of its Zero Wastewater Discharge Project. Suchada Thaensap, Secretary to the Minister of MHESI, emphasized how this project aligns with the strategic objectives of MHESI and Minister Supamas Isarabhakdi, focusing on research and innovation for environmental friendliness and social development through sustainable practices.
Dr. Thongchai Suwonsichon, Director of PMUC, highlighted the significance of the project, supported by funding from the Circular Economy (CE) program. He emphasized the importance of leveraging innovation to drive Thailand towards sustainable development goals and praised the forthcoming Zero Wastewater Discharge Learning Center for fostering technological development and collaboration.
In 2024, PMUC has allocated significant funding to support research and innovation in sustainability, focusing on driving the Circular Economy and promoting renewable energy. Dr. Thongchai outlined ambitious targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and resource usage, aiming for Thailand's Carbon Neutrality by 2050.
The Zero Wastewater Discharge Project, a pilot initiative for five of Thai Union's plants, received initial investment from PMUC. Thai Union has committed substantial resources to this project, demonstrating its commitment to environmental sustainability and its SeaChange® 2030 strategy.
Suthidej Amornkasemwong, Managing Director (Fish Plant) at Thai Union Group, expressed gratitude for PMUC's partnership and outlined the company's dedication to sustainability throughout its value chain. He explained the project's use of Ultrafiltration (UF) and Reverse Osmosis (RO) technologies to improve water quality and enable water reuse.
Covering an expansive area, the Zero Wastewater Discharge Project at Thai Union in Samut Sakorn has significantly reduced water consumption and costs. Adam Brennan, Chief Sustainability Officer at Thai Union Group, emphasized the project's global significance in promoting responsible manufacturing practices and environmental stewardship.
The collaboration between PMUC and Thai Union extends beyond this project, encompassing several successful ventures in nutritional supplements, beverages, and high-value functional ingredients from tuna fish oil. These projects, along with ongoing developments, underscore the commitment of both entities to driving innovation for a sustainable future.
