In the heart of Thailand, a nine-day agricultural fair hosted by Suranaree University of Technology became the unlikely stage for a groundbreaking study on carbon footprints and sustainable event management. The Suranaree Agricultural Fair 2025, attended by nearly 260,000 participants, was scrutinized for its environmental impact, offering valuable insights for the energy sector and beyond.
Dr. V. de Cadenet, from the School of Environmental Engineering at Suranaree University of Technology, led the research published in the Global Journal of Environmental Science and Management, known in English as the ‘Worldwide Journal of Environmental Science and Management’. The study, titled “Carbon footprint associated with a small-scale emissions reduction initiative for sustainable event management,” revealed that the fair’s total carbon footprint amounted to 1,524,844.09 kilograms of carbon dioxide equivalent. To put this into perspective, that’s roughly the weight of 215 African elephants.
The study found that food consumption and participant travel were the primary culprits, accounting for over 67% of the total emissions. “We were surprised by the sheer scale of emissions from these two sources,” Dr. de Cadenet noted. “It underscores the need for targeted interventions in these areas.”
The research also highlighted the varying behaviors and engagement levels among different participant groups, which significantly influenced the carbon emission results. This finding could be a game-changer for event planners and energy managers, as it opens up new avenues for targeted emissions reduction strategies.
Dr. de Cadenet emphasized the commercial implications of the study, stating, “Understanding the carbon footprint of large-scale events is not just an environmental issue; it’s a business imperative. Companies in the energy sector can leverage these insights to develop innovative solutions for their clients, from low-carbon travel options to sustainable catering services.”
The study’s recommendations include enhancing data collection methods, promoting low-carbon practices, and supporting institutional efforts towards carbon neutrality. These insights could shape the future of event management within the higher education sector and beyond, driving demand for sustainable energy solutions.
As the world grapples with the urgent need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, studies like this one provide a roadmap for action. They demonstrate that even small-scale emissions reduction initiatives can have a significant impact, paving the way for a more sustainable future. The research serves as a call to action for the energy sector to innovate and collaborate in the pursuit of a low-carbon economy.