Reporters: Asst.Prof.Dr. Prapot Maliwan
Assoc.Prof.Dr. Pornsil Seephueak
Asst.Prof.Dr. Nion Chirapongsathonkul
Asst.Prof.Dr. Worawitoo Meesook
Evidence Date: during 2024 Jan-Dec
Related SDGs:
Related Indicators: 15.3.3
Details:
Rajamangala University of Technology Srivijaya collaborated with Prince of Songkla University and Thung Song Municipality to conduct research on Sustainable City Development. This project was kindly supported by Program Management Unit on Area-based Development (PMU A), Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation which has taken the initiative to promote sustainable urban planning and management across Thailand. Our participation included training in the national workshop on “Research for Sustainable City Development,” held at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center in Bangkok on 24–25 July 2024. This workshop was part of a pilot project across 19 municipalities nationwide to create baseline data, city development plans, and advanced management tools. Among the main tools introduced were City Scan, City Data Platform, and research on disaster management using technology under the CIAP program, which focuses on building livable and smart cities.
Thung Song City presents unique characteristics and challenges for sustainable development, as limestone hills are scattered throughout its residential areas. This geographic feature creates high biodiversity, which must be considered in all urban planning initiatives. Therefore, our research emphasizes biodiversity protection as a foundation for sustainable development. Biodiversity data will not only help guide conservation priorities but also inform land-use planning, community development, and resilience strategies. With this approach, the research team aims to integrate ecological knowledge into practical city development plans. This ensures that nature and human settlement coexist in balance, minimizing conflicts while fostering community well-being.
The biodiversity research component has been divided among experts to cover a wide range of ecosystems and species groups. Dr. Prasert Nontakarn leads the studies on plant, butterfly, and bird diversity, which are crucial indicators of ecological health. Assistant Professor Dr. Worawitoo Meesook focuses on amphibians and reptiles, many of which are sensitive to environmental change and serve as bioindicators. Associate Professor Dr. Wanninee Chankaew is responsible for fish diversity studies, highlighting the importance of aquatic ecosystems in Thung Song. Together, these research efforts will generate comprehensive biodiversity data to be integrated into the city’s sustainable development plan. By combining scientific research with community engagement and advanced technological tools, Thung Song Municipality is building a strong foundation for becoming a livable, resilient, and environmentally responsible city.
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