Well-being Material Library

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Apichat Praditsmanont attended the launch of the Travel Tech Startup 2024 contest

The Secret of The Forestias

Did you know? Behind the development of a large-scale project like The Forestias by MQDC lies more than just real estate—it is also a living learning platform.MQDC is a property developer that emphasizes applying recognized knowledge and research to real-world development, using its projects as a “sandbox” for learning and elevating construction practices in Thailand. The Forestias has therefore become a real-life learning environment for nature, bold ideas, and innovative theories that depart from conventional construction approaches. Rooted in the philosophy of harmonious living with nature, the project integrates architectural beauty with a thriving urban forest, applying the Miyawaki reforestation method—an ecological afforestation technique that imitates natural forest systems. This approach has proven successful, as seen in the forest’s significant growth over the past 4–5 years.The Forestias is more than just a forested community—it is a project that integrates scientific research beneficial to all forms of life in one place.Research integration, or the process of translating research into built reality, is at the heart of this project. Examples of research-backed environmental innovation include the enhancement of trees’ natural capabilities. RISC has studied the potential of Thailand’s climate and native tree species to generate electricity—an extension of Plant-e’s research, which produces electric energy from plant photosynthesis. Excess energy from photosynthesis is transferred to the soil and roots, where microorganisms exchange charges, creating an electrical current that can be used to power small electronic devices and lighting.Another example involves the disappearance of “fireflies,” a natural indicator of ecological health. RISC collaborated with the Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University to conserve fireflies and reintroduce them to urban areas. The research developed methods that mimic natural habitats, enabling fireflies to be raised from eggs to adulthood. It also created naturalistic “firefly homes,” selected floating plants for daytime shelter, added cattail clusters for nighttime refuge, and enhanced biodiversity within water bodies as food sources. Water quality, soil conditions, and appropriate lighting levels were also established to prevent disturbance—allowing fireflies to be released back into the natural environment within The Forestias.The Forestias thus serves as a model space where innovation and environmental conservation spark tiny yet meaningful lights—creating learning opportunities and inspiring everyone who visits.In addition, the project incorporates a wide range of embedded research insights, such as stress reduction through nature, health benefits supported by Active Design, inclusive exercise spaces for all ages, safety in design and materials, light-pollution mitigation, improved air quality for living, environmental adjustments for optimal habitat, urban heat-island reduction, and lower carbon emissions through design strategies. The project also serves as a pioneer for circular development in Thailand’s real estate industry—supporting well-being and driving global innovation. RISC firmly believes in creating real, meaningful value that benefits all forms of life.Story by Dr. Jittapat Choruengwiwat, Senior Vice President of RISCReference byhttps://www.plant-e.com/en/​https://www.facebook.com/lightpollutionthailand/videos/1033573107919046​https://www.facebook.com/riscwellbeing/photos/a.1950097545253419/2896702223926275/?type=3&locale=th_TH​