Bangkok: In the current era where Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles and the Green Economy dominate global priorities, Thai entrepreneurs, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), are encountering significant challenges due to increasingly strict international regulations. While some perceive eco-friendly practices as costly or distant, Siamnat Panassorn, the Managing Director of Sun-Up Recycling Co., Ltd., views this as a promising opportunity to enhance resilience and reduce long-term business expenses.
According to Thai News Agency, the issue of liquid industrial waste in Thailand is critical, with up to 700,000 tons of hazardous liquid waste produced annually. The country's capacity for proper incineration is limited to just 60,000 tons, leading to improper disposal methods, such as illegal dumping into sewers, which have severe environmental repercussions and contribute significantly to the carbon footprint.
Sun-Up Recycling Co., Ltd. is addressing this issue by utilizing advanced "distillation tower" technology to recycle used solvents to an impressive purity level of 99.993%. This innovative approach aligns with the principles of a Circular Economy, as it involves collecting used materials from factories, refining them, and returning them for reuse. The recycled materials are of such high quality that they can be utilized in high-end industries, including the production of components for iPhones.
Moreover, businesses benefit financially by avoiding disposal costs ranging from 3,000 to 5,000 baht per ton and purchasing recycled materials at a lower cost than new ones. Siamnat emphasizes the importance of waste separation at the source, citing an example of a factory that saved 40 million baht annually by merely separating solvents from wastewater and oil, thus making them recyclable.
Siamnat also notes that the main challenge for SMEs is the perception that green business practices are burdensome. However, he highlights the shift in global trends, with customers increasingly valuing carbon reduction over low prices. Additionally, resources like Board of Investment (BOI) measures and Green Loans are available to facilitate a quicker return on investment for businesses adopting eco-friendly practices.
In conclusion, adopting green business practices today is not merely about improving brand image but is crucial for future survival. Proactive steps in reducing, separating, and recycling waste are essential for becoming a sustainable and competitive business in the global market.