Climate resilience takes centre stage at Sustainability Expo 2026

Sustainability Expo 2026 (SX2026) marked its formal opening in Bangkok on Monday (November 9), bringing business leaders, sustainability experts and communities together to examine practical responses to climate risks and other global disruptions.

The seventh edition runs from November 6-15 at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre. Its theme, "Resilience in Action", reflects the broader "Sufficiency for Sustainability" concept, which draws on the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy (SEP) and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Resilience begins with preparation

Thapana Sirivadhanabhakdi, group chief executive officer of Thai Beverage and president of the SX2026 organising committee, described growing environmental, economic and social pressures as increasingly interconnected.

He noted that their effects extend beyond extreme weather and natural disasters to food security, energy supplies and resources essential to daily life.

"We must look ahead carefully, understand the risks and prepare for change starting today," he told attendees.

He emphasised that communities, businesses and countries faced different circumstances and had varying capacities to prepare for and respond to change.

The expo was intended to help them learn from one another, identify approaches suited to their circumstances and develop partnerships capable of turning knowledge into practical action.

Sufficiency Economy Philosophy and the royal centenary

Thapana also highlighted December 5, 2027, which will mark the centenary of King Bhumibol Adulyadej's birth.

He called for the late King's Sufficiency Economy Philosophy to be applied to everyday life, business operations and social development, while ensuring that younger generations understood its principles and how to put them into practice.

He also linked the expo's guiding principles to His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn's royal commitment to preserving and building on royal development initiatives.

Thapana pointed to more than 900,000 visitors to SX2025 as evidence of growing public interest in sustainability.

This year's programme brings together more than 280 sustainability speakers and experts from around the world, alongside representatives of 280 Thai and international organisations, to exchange knowledge, technologies, innovations and practical experience.

Business leaders outline sustainability priorities

Suphachai Chearavanont, senior vice-chairman of Charoen Pokphand Group, emphasised that sustainable development required a comprehensive approach balancing economic growth, social progress, environmental protection and biodiversity conservation.

He highlighted the importance of empowering people and expanding opportunities through the group's "Four New Necessities": quality education, financial inclusion, digital accessibility and basic insurance protection.

He linked these priorities to the use of innovation and the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy to create more equitable opportunities and deliver lasting benefits.

Panote Sirivadhanabhakdi, group chief executive officer of Frasers Property, described sustainability as central to the company's business strategy.

He outlined its commitment to continually improving standards and performance to enhance quality of life and create long-term value, while balancing business objectives with the interests of stakeholders, communities and the environment.

Balancing energy security with sustainability

Kongkrapan Intarajang, PTT's president and chief executive officer, described the company's approach as "Balanced Sustainability", reflecting its dual responsibilities as a state enterprise supporting Thailand's energy security and a listed company pursuing sustainable growth and returns.

"The energy transition must move forward without compromising Thailand's energy security or economic competitiveness," he emphasised.

The approach reflects the "energy trilemma" of energy security, affordability and sustainability.

The company is expanding its liquefied natural gas (LNG) business with the ambition of becoming a global LNG player, while pursuing international growth opportunities that can strengthen its competitiveness and contribute to Thailand's development.

Kongkrapan also outlined carbon capture and storage initiatives intended to support Thailand's and PTT Group's net-zero emissions targets by 2050.

Another priority is I-SPARK, an initiative designed to develop a low-carbon industrial ecosystem combining clean energy, decarbonisation solutions, shared infrastructure and Bio-Circular-Green businesses.

Thammasak Sethaudom, president and chief executive officer of SCG, stressed that resilience involved recognising new opportunities as well as managing risks.

Guided by the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy, SCG aims to strengthen its ability to adapt, make balanced decisions and pursue sustainable growth.

Thammasak also highlighted cooperation among people, communities, industries and partners across ASEAN as an important way to transform emerging challenges into opportunities for long-term development.

Ten highlights bring sustainability into everyday life

SX2026 features 10 highlights combining interactive exhibitions, discussions, immersive experiences and hands-on activities designed for visitors of different ages and interests.

• SEP Inspiration, Better Me, Better Living and Better Community: Demonstrate how the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy can be applied to individual lifestyles, community development and environmental protection.
   
• SX Prologue Immersive Experience: Developed in partnership with National Geographic, this exhibition explores nature and global transformation through an immersive experience.
   
• SX Global Forum: Brings together international participants, diplomatic missions and United Nations representatives in Thailand for policy discussions, business-to-business and business-to-government negotiations, and cross-border cooperation.
   
• SX Talk Stage: Features more than 60 panel sessions with experts exploring responses to global disruption.
   
• SX Kids Zone: Offers an interactive "From Land to Sea" learning experience designed to encourage children's curiosity and imagination.
   
• SX Idea Lab: Provides hands-on workshops covering sustainable practices and practical skills.
   
• SX Food Festival: Explores the relationship between food choices and climate action through sustainable food experiences.
   
• Better World Art & Inspiration: Uses creative exhibitions to encourage new perspectives on environmental and social challenges.
   
• SX Marketplace: Features products from socially and environmentally conscious entrepreneurs.
   
• SX Repartment Store: Encourages the exchange and reuse of pre-owned goods and quality second-hand items, promoting more responsible consumption.

Sustainability Expo 2026 is open daily from 10am to 8pm until November 15.

Further information and programme schedules are available on the official website at www.sustainabilityexpo.com, the Sustainability Expo Facebook page and the official LINE account @sxofficial.