Earthquakes have occurred before, so why was there so much damage this time?

By RISC | 2 days ago

Bangkok might seem largely free from earthquakes. But the city experienced 35 quakes in the 30 years from 1995 to 2025, according to the Thai Meteorological Department:- 1995–2005: 7- 2006–2015: 17- 2016–2025: 13Most of these tremors were felt in high-rise buildings and were mild to moderate. But the most recent on 28 March was the first to be noticed across the city, causing tall buildings to sway. Buildings under construction also suffered damage. The rise in frequency and intensity makes the issue of earthquakes less remote.Why did this recent quake cause more damage? Bangkok isn’t on an active fault line or in a primary seismic risk zone. But it often experiences tremors from distant earthquakes for several geological reasons:1. Soft Soil: Much of Bangkok (as well as many central provinces) is on ancient sediment from the Chao Phraya River. Soft clay can reach depths of 10–30 meters. This type of soil can amplify seismic waves. When earthquake waves travel from distant locations and reach these soft soil layers, the energy can become amplified at certain frequencies—making tremors more perceptible, especially in tall buildings.2. Low-Frequency Earthquakes: Large, distant earthquakes tend to release low-frequency seismic waves, which can travel up to 1,000 kilometers without significantly losing energy. These low-frequency waves primarily affect tall buildings over 10 stories, while people at ground level might not feel much (as seen in the recent March 28 earthquake). The taller and more flexible a structure is, the more its natural frequency is likely to resonate with the earthquake waves—causing noticeable swaying.Even though tall buildings near the Chao Phraya River face greater risks due to the amplification of seismic waves in soft soil, these risks can be mitigated with proper structural design that adheres to relevant safety standards. You can explore design guidelines for seismic safety in this article (https://mqdc.link/4lfVStr) by Sarithorn Amorncharuchit, a key developer of wellness-focused building design standards under the Research & Innovation for Sustainability Center (RISC).Story by Napol Kieatkongmanee, Senior Sustainable Designer and TREES-A, Building Technology, Intelligent Systems, Innovative Solutions Specialist, and Ms. Sirapach Mangkang, Geographic Information System (GIS) specialist, RISCReferences:https://earthquake.tmd.go.th/document.htmlhttps://earthquake.tmd.go.th/documents/file/seismo-doc-1606435108.pdfhttps://op.mahidol.ac.th/rm/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/earthquake_140516.pdf

MQDC STANDARD for All Well-Being

By RISC | 6 days ago

A great home should enhance your life quality and ensure your well-being. A high-quality residence comes from a commitment to excellence and the highest standards.RISC and MQDC together created the “MQDC Standard” based on “sustainnovation” to enhance life for residents, communities, and all life with 3 focus areas:◾️ Energy & Ecology: Sustainable energy conservation and ecological systems under the concept of For All Well-Being. Buildings are designed and constructed with energy- and water-saving materials, along with high-efficiency, eco-friendly air conditioning systems to reduce greenhouse gases and minimize impact on surrounding communities. The design also promotes rich ecosystems and biodiversity.◾️ Health and Wellness: Prioritizing the health and safety of residents through natural ventilation combined with fresh air systems, use of non-toxic and low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) materials to reduce health impacts, and thoughtful design of lighting, acoustics, and safety within buildings. MQDC’s FAHSI air-purification tower reduces PM2.5 and improve outdoor air quality.◾️ Senses & Happiness:Spaces foster positive emotions and sustainable happiness, grounded in behavioral and psychological research. Spaces are tailored for all users, with careful selection of materials, colors, and natural integration in design to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and enhance happiness in every aspect of living.The MQDC Standard serves as a comprehensive quality assurance framework from design through to construction and operation. It helps all teams set, maintain, and check standards at every stage. Regular inspections by experts ensure quality.MQDC Standard: Structural Standards◾️ Structures are designed to withstand earthquakes according to Ministry of Interior regulations, based on site-specific characteristics—for instance, Samut Prakan’s soft soil might be impacted by distant earthquakes.◾️ High-strength concrete is used without fly ash to maintain superior compressive and tensile strength, with no compromise on material quality to save costs.◾️ Roads and building foundations are supported by deep piles to mitigate soil subsidence and reinforce overall structural strength.◾️ The connection between walls and the main structure is designed with flexibility, using materials that can accommodate both vertical and horizontal movement.◾️ Retaining walls use the pile wall system instead of sheet pile to reduce earth pressure directly on the structural walls, ensuring long-term stability.MQDC Standard: Design Standards◾️ Practical and safe design—for example, laminated safety glass is used for exterior window frames to prevent dangerous breakage.◾️ All piping systems are centralized in dedicated shafts, with no floor penetrations. In the event of an incident (e.g., water leakage due to an earthquake), damage is contained within a small area. PEX seamless pipes are used in critical locations for greater durability.◾️ Floor drains are installed in corridors, and slope adjustments are made near elevators to prevent unexpected flooding such as from pipe leaks.◾️ Swimming pools are safely designed with large drainage systems and are set back from buildings to prevent fall hazards. A 2-meter perimeter is reserved for easy maintenance of drainage systems.MQDC Standard: Construction Material Standards◾️ All materials must be certified by structural and civil engineers, Thai Industrial Standards (TIS), and relevant engineering councils.◾️ Architectural materials must comply with TIS or environmental standards such as TREES, WELL, and LEED.◾️ Installation must follow manufacturer guidelines—for instance, tile installation requires spacing to prevent warping, and bathroom wall materials must be installed correctly to prevent detachment.◾️ Construction Management (CM) teams inspect every installation step—for example, ceiling framing must follow design distances and use standard equipment for safety and durability.MQDC Standard: Testing Standards◾️ Structural materials must be tested according to international standards such as ACI, BSI, ASTM, or their equivalents.◾️ Other materials, such as windows, must pass performance tests for air, water, wind, sound, and thermal resistance based on EN, JIS, ASTM, ANSI standards.◾️ Wind tunnel testing is conducted on high-rise buildings to ensure resistance to wind and seismic forces.◾️ Full-scale (1:1) mock-ups are created to review actual installation procedures, test systems, and resolve issues before full construction, minimizing on-site errors.A 30-year warranty offers further peace of mind to residents, covering 4 key areas: building structure, rainproofing, plumbing & electrical systems, and doors & windows.MQDC Standard goes beyond materials and structure to cover health, safety, and quality of life in every dimension. Story by Dr. Jittapat Choruengwiwat, Senior Vice President of RISC

Resilience “Shock & Stress” Framework

By RISC | 2 weeks ago

The earthquake reminded us all how being prepared is vital for survival…Natural disasters are part of life and feature in RISC’s "Shock & Stress" Framework in the “Incident & Disaster” subcategory of its “Living & Infrastructure” category. RISC has developed a “Resilience Framework Toolkit” to raise awareness of risks and challenges in 3 key areas:• Nature & Environment• Living & Infrastructure• Society & EconomyThe “Resilience Framework Toolkit” can help you and your organization recognize, understand, and anticipate the impacts of global change. This insight can then guide planning and developing cities and real estate projects—ensuring we’re better prepared and more adaptable in all scenarios, whether at the building, community, or city level.Let’s explore how the “Resilience Framework Toolkit” can be applied from different perspectives. You can now get your own copy of the “Resilience Framework Toolkit”!✅ RISC LINE Official: @risc_center (Price: 600 THB per copy, including shipping)✅ DTGO CAMPUS:• Empty Cup, RISC Office (2nd floor)• Forget-Me-Not Shop (3rd floor) (https://maps.app.goo.gl/kGLM3YcccNysnMcW9)​Special offer! Get it for only 500 THB when you buy it in person.

Building Standards for Earthquake Safety

By RISC | 2 weeks ago

What Lessons Must We Learn from the Earthquake?Earthquakes are rare in Thailand but they’re still important for building structure…How much does structural integrity matter?Why guarantee structural strength when buildings seem to last a hundred years anyway?These questions got their answer on 28 March when the earthquake tested the skills of structural engineers and construction professionals.Design and structural calculation for complex buildings—especially large-scale and high-rise structures, religious buildings, and public-use facilities—are regulated under the Building Control Act B.E. 2522 (1979). These building must comply with earthquake resistance requirements, such as those specified in the Ministerial Regulation on Load, Resistance, and Durability of Buildings and Soils in Earthquake Resistance B.E. 2564 (2021), an updated version of the 2007 regulation, as well as the Ministry of Interior Announcement on Structural Design for Earthquake Resistance B.E. 2564 (2021).The earthquake caused damage ranging from minor to severe—even to recent buildings under the new regulations. Professionals in structural engineering and related disciplines should now re-evaluate standards, analyze deeper issues, and determine how new buildings should be designed going forward.Is the current legislation adequate? Or do we need to revise it? Can we check the effectiveness of building designs and structural calculations before construction using simulations, wind tunnel testing, or other evaluation tools?Should legal provisions set higher safety levels based on site-specific seismic risk assessments?What about residential housing—such as detached homes, townhouses, or shophouses—that are not subject to the structural regulations? How can they be made safer? The Land Allocation Act and the standard contracts for land and housing set a structural warranty—covering foundations, columns, beams, floors, roof structures, and load-bearing walls—for only 5 years from the date of ownership transfer. Should this also be reconsidered?Structural engineering isn’t the only factor affecting occupant safety. Architectural design, interior design, MEP systems, and building components all need thorough re-evaluation as well.As an organization committed to developing sustainable and healthy building design standards, RISC offers the following key earthquake-related design considerations:1. Glass panels – Should not fall when cracked or when the structure shifts. Laminated glass should be used for façades, doors, windows, and railings. Frameless glass doors, especially large ones, should be avoided in high-risk areas.2. Swimming pools – Infinity pools should have barriers at least 1.2 meters high or be set back at least 2 meters from the edge of buildings, to protect users and neighboring properties from accidental falls or overflowing water during emergencies.3. Interior walls – Often concealed by finishes or wallpaper, which may hide moisture, mold, or cracks, making it difficult to assess damage or water leakage.4. Heavy furniture and decorative items – Should be securely anchored to floors or walls. Cabinets should have locks or railings to prevent contents from falling. Items that may swing or shake, like light fixtures, air conditioners, or signage, must have strong anchoring systems.5. Automatic doors – Common in offices and malls, should be designed to remain open during emergencies and be tested regularly.6 Water pipes should not be embedded in structural components – Leaks can be difficult to detect and repair, especially after seismic events. Emergency drainage should be included in communal corridors, especially in condominiums, to prevent flooding of units or elevator machine rooms.7. Evacuation routes – Must be clearly defined, equipped with emergency lighting and signage, and regularly communicated and rehearsed with building occupants.8. Alarm systems and refuge areas – Essential for all buildings, particularly public buildings and high-rises. They provide temporary safe zones while waiting for rescue teams during emergencies.These are just a few examples of standards that could benefit a wider range of buildings. RISC remains committed to research and innovation to support the design and construction of safer, healthier homes and buildings—with the well-being of occupants as the top priority.This real-world test serves as a wake-up call for buildings that were unaffected, or those not yet designed with seismic survival in mind. If public awareness fades and no changes are made, this earthquake will not be the last lesson.Safety isn’t about luck, and standards can’t be negotiated—they must evolve and improve continuously.Story by Saritorn Amornjaruchit, Assistant Vice President of RISCFor more information, please visitMinisterial Regulation on Load Bearing, Resistance, and Durability of Buildings and Ground Supporting Structures Against Earthquakes (2021): https://www.ratchakitcha.soc.go.th/DATA/PDF/2564/A/016/T_0013.PDF​Ministry of Interior Announcement on Structural Design and Calculation for Earthquake Resistance (2021): https://www.ratchakitcha.soc.go.th/DATA/PDF/2564/E/275/T_0016.PDF​Emergency Medical Committee Announcement on Basic Life Support Standards Outside Medical Facilities (2021): https://www.ratchakitcha.soc.go.th/DATA/PDF/2564/E/293/T_0057.PDF​Ministerial Regulation on Facilities in Buildings for Persons with Disabilities and the Elderly (No. 2) (2021): https://www.ratchakitcha.soc.go.th/DATA/PDF/2564/A/016/T_0019.PDF​Land Allocation Act (2000): ​https://download.asa.or.th/03media/04law/lsa/lsa43-upd02.pdf​Central Land Allocation Committee Announcement on Standard Form of Land Purchase Agreement (2002): ​https://www.dol.go.th/estate/DocLib18/scan0003.pdf​

How Biomass Ash Can Make Construction Greener

By RISC | 3 weeks ago

Did you know that each megawatt of electricity from biomass also generates 200-400 tons of ash?What is biomass ash and why does it matter?Biomass ash is waste from generating electricity with biomass. Different types of biomass produce varying amounts of ash, typically in the range 1-3%. The more electricity, the more ash.Thailand has 226 biomass power plants totaling 2,110 MW. These plants produce nearly 1 million tons of biomass ash each year. So how do we manage such an enormous amount of ash?Proper management of biomass ashBiomass ash is industrial waste and must be disposed of according to environmental regulations. Common disposal methods include sending it to landfill, using it in cement kilns, composting it for fertilizers and soil conditioners, and recycling it for other usesBut the large volume of biomass ash means high disposal costs. Managing 80,000–100,000 tons can cost 10-15 million baht. To reduce disposal costs and boost the value of biomass ash, research has explored uses in construction materials.Can biomass ash be used in cement?Cement is a key material in concrete production. In a hydration reaction it forms calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H) that strengthens concrete. Replacing cement with biomass ash significantly affects the properties of concrete.Biomass ash mainly consists of calcium oxide (CaO) but has lower amounts of silica (SiO₂), alumina (Al₂O₃), and iron oxide (Fe₂O₃), resulting in reduced hydration reactions. But SiO₂, Al₂O₃, and Fe₂O₃ can still undergo a pozzolanic reaction with calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂), forming C-S-H. This reaction enhances the long-term compressive strength, sulfate resistance, and acid resistance of concrete while reducing efflorescence on concrete surfaces.Excessive biomass ash content, however, reduces concrete compressive strength. Biomass ash has smaller particles and is lighter than cement, making the resulting concrete lighter. Its high porosity and surface area also lead to greater water absorption, requiring an increase in water content during the mixing process.Appropriate uses and proportions of biomass ash in constructionThe properties of biomass ash significantly impact concrete performance, depending on its type, chemical composition, and quantity. Using biomass ash is most suitable for non-load-bearing applications, such as curbstones, pavement materials, garden decorations, and ventilation blocksThe recommended replacement ratio for cement is 10-30% by weight, but this depends on the type and quality of biomass ash, concrete composition, and mix proportions.Adding value to biomass ash productsTo compete in the market, biomass ash-based products should have unique features, whether in design, aesthetics, or special functions. This approach not only enhances product competitiveness but also contributes to a sustainable circular economy.Story by: Supunnapang Raksawong, Materials Researcher in Sustainable Building Material, RISCReferencesDepartment of Alternative Energy Development and Efficiency, Ministry of Energy (2025). Biomass Power Plant Location Map in Thailand.Kwancheewa Yongstar, Nuanan Kurakaew, Chukiat Chusakul, and Sunan Monkaew (2024). Development of Interlocking Bricks from Waste Rock Dust and Rubberwood Ash. RMUTP Journal of Science and Technology, Vol. 18, No. 1 (2024).Saroj Damrongsil (2007). Effects of Sugarcane Bagasse and Fly Ash Blended Cement on the Physical and Mechanical Properties of Concrete. KMUTT Journal of Research and Technology, Vol. 30, No. 3, July-September (2007).Ayobami A. B. (2021). Performance of Wood Bottom Ash in Cement-Based Applications and Comparison with Other Selected Ashes: Overview. Resources, Conservation and Recycling, Vol. 166, 105351.

How to Choose Nature-Friendly Lighting

By RISC | 4 weeks ago

Light isn’t just what we use to see… It also regulates how we and wildlife live our lives each day.The light we see has a wavelength of 400-700 nanometers. But there are also invisible ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR) rays.Sunlight is crucial factor for photosynthesis in plants, the foundation of the food chain. Light is used in technologies including medicine, communications, and transport.Alongside all these benefits, though, excessive or inappropriate light causes "light pollution", an environmental issue that’s often overlooked. This pollution can harm both us and the environment.Unnecessary light such as streetlights, lights from tall buildings, or billboards that shine all through the night can disrupt wildlife’s natural behavior. Creatures lose balance in their lives. Migratory birds fly off course. Sea turtles get disoriented by coastal lights. Many other wild creatures also need the dark to survive.To reduce the impact of light pollution on animals and the environment, we should choose appropriate lighting that won’t disturb the lifecycle and behavior of wildlife.Suitable lighting should have a correlated color temperature (CCT) of no more than 3000 Kelvin (K). The wavelength range should be about 600-700 nanometers, giving a warm white light. Light should have a clear direction, not spreading widely or shining to the sky or where animals live. We can also help reduce light pollution by turning off unnecessary lights. Don’t leave lights on during the night. Use timers to ensure lights are only on when needed. Proper use and management of light can help reduce light pollution and maintain the balance of nature, letting wildlife thrive in its natural habitats.Story by Kotchakorn Rattanama, Biodiversity Researcher, RISC

Don't Become Numb to the Threat of PM2.5…

By RISC | 4 weeks ago

Are you starting to become indifferent to air pollution alerts? They come so often that we get used to them. But PM2.5 remains a real danger in every breath we take.Thailand has been struggling with PM2.5 for years, especially during the dry season when air pollution often exceeds safe limits. PM2.5 at the start of this year was below the five-year average yet some provinces still experienced several days at hazardous levels. Public health remains at risk and pollution shouldn’t be ignored. MEI Compared to PM2.5 Levels in Different RegionsThe Multivariate ENSO Index Version 2 (MEI V.2) is a multivariate index for the ENSO phenomenon. It integrates various oceanic and atmospheric variables to assess the ENSO index, including Sea Level Pressure (SLP), Sea Surface Temperature (SST), Surface Zonal Winds (U), Surface Meridional Winds (V), and Outgoing Longwave Radiation (OLR). MEI is used to evaluate El Niño (MEI value above 0) and La Niña (MEI value below 0). The health impacts of PM2.5 accumulate over time. They can lead to illnesses such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and cancer. In Bangkok, as well as in provinces like Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and Phayao, where PM2.5 levels get extremely high, people can experience acute symptoms related to respiratory diseases, cardiovascular diseases, skin conditions, and eye infections.PM2.5 levels vary each year with 2 main factors: meteorological conditions and pollution from various sources.From a meteorological perspective, wind plays a crucial role—both its direction and speed. Strong winds help disperse pollutants. The height of the atmospheric mixing layer (where pollutants can rise and spread) directly affects pollution levels. If this layer is low, pollutants accumulate near the ground, causing PM2.5 concentrations to rise.Another factor is rainfall and humidity, which can help remove airborne particles. High humidity and heavy rain effectively reduce PM2.5 levels and lower the chances of open burning, a major source of air pollution in many regions of the country. On a larger scale, the PM2.5 issue is also linked to global climate phenomena such as El Niño and La Niña, which influence rainfall patterns in Thailand. La Niña, which brings more rain, reduces open burning. El Niño brings drought and an increase in fires. These mechanisms show how air pollution is linked to climate, geography, and human activities.PM2.5 stems from different causes across Thailand.In Bangkok and the Eastern Region, primary pollution sources include traffic, factories, and power plants. PM2.5 levels peak during the winter due to stagnant air trapping pollutants. Pollution from open burning in surrounding areas further worsens the situation in the summer.In the North and Northeast, PM2.5 primarily comes from open burning in agricultural and forested areas. In the North, pollution levels can exceed the safety standard by 10 times during the dry season, aligning with an increase in hotspot detections from forest and farmland fires. Transboundary haze from neighboring countries further exacerbates the problem.In the South, air pollution levels are generally lower due to prolonged rainy seasons and high humidity. But the region isn’t always safe. Towards year-end, the South is affected by transboundary haze, particularly from fires in equatorial regions, where smoke can travel thousands of kilometers over the ocean.The most effective way to combat PM2.5 pollution is to address its root causes. But this requires long-term solutions and collaboration between the government, private sector, and the public. What we can all do right now is protect ourselves—the first line of defense against air pollution.A simple principle to remember is: "Minimize exposure to PM2.5 as much as possible." Stay informed about air quality levels before going outside, wear an N95 mask in high-risk areas, avoid outdoor activities when pollution levels are high, use air purifiers, or stay in PM2.5-free environments."FAHSAI" air purification tower is an example of an initiative for cleaner spaces. It may provide an option for those looking to reduce exposure to pollution. Self-protection doesn’t address the issue’s root causes but provides an immediate solution to reduce health risks for ourselves and our loved ones.PM2.5 is an invisible but ever-present threat, lingering in our every breath. If we ignore it or become indifferent, it may become a crisis we can’t fix.Story by Assoc. Dr. Patipat Vongruang, Assistant Dean, Faculty of Public Health, University of Phayao, and Napol Kieatkongmanee, Senior Sustainable Designer and TREES-A, Building Technology, Intelligent Systems, Innovative Solutions Specialist, RISC

How Photocatalytic Coating Turns Buildings into Air Purifiers

By RISC | 1 month ago

PM2.5 never seems to really go away… So what can we do?Fine particulates with a diameter of 2.5 microns or less—30 times smaller than the width of a human hair—can enter our bodies through our respiratory system and even reach our bloodstream. Exposure to PM2.5 can cause eye, nose, and throat irritation. Breathing can become difficult and we might feel chest pain. Long-term exposure may increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases and respiratory conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).Outdoor air pollution and PM2.5 are classed in Group 1 (Carcinogenic to Humans) by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). There is enough evidence to confirm their role as carcinogens. PM2.5 causes lung cancer, according to research.We can protect ourselves from PM2.5 with N95 masks or air purifiers with HEPA filters (H10–H14), able to trap particles as small as 0.3 microns with an efficiency of 85%–99.995%. But did you know that some building materials reduce dust? Photocatalytic coating is a surface treatment that can reduce pollution. This coating often contains titanium dioxide (TiO2). When it’s exposed to sunlight, a chemical reaction on the surface generates hydroxyl radicals (OH·) and superoxide anion radicals (O2-·). These radicals break down air pollutants including dust, gases, bacteria, viruses, and mold. The pollutants form carbon dioxide (CO2) and water (H2O), making them harmless to health. Research has shown that titanium dioxide can decompose up to 92% of the carbon content in PM2.5 while releasing carbon dioxide, effectively reducing the harmful impact of PM2.5.Photocatalyst coatings are already widely applied to construction materials such as glass, roofing materials, and wall paint. These coatings help surfaces clean themselves by preventing the accumulation of dust and pollutants. They also inhibit the growth of bacteria and mold. And they help cool buildings, ultimately reducing energy consumption.Story by: Supunnapang Raksawong, Materials Researcher in Sustainable Building Material, RISCReferences:IARC Monographs. Outdoor Air Quality Volume 109Dr. Piboon Jinawat. "Photocatalyst Building Materials." National Academic Conference, Architectural Paradigm, 2015Misawa K, Sekine Y, Kusukubo Y, Sohara K. Photocatalytic degradation of atmospheric fine particulate matter (PM2.5) collected on TiO2 supporting quartz fiber filter. Environ Technol. 2020 Apr;41(10):1266-1274.

How Green Spaces Give You a Better Life

By RISC | 1 month ago

Did you know that an acre of mature trees can absorb as much carbon dioxide in a year as a car produces in 26,000 miles?Spending time around trees brings you many benefits, from lower stress to higher cognitive abilities. Trees are vital to human well-being. And, as cities continue to grow and develop, trees are becoming even more important…1. Encouraging an Active LifestyleCities with more trees and green spaces encourage people to use public areas and support local businesses. Green spaces boost outdoor activities and exercise, such as strolling in parks or playing outdoor sports. These activities improve public health and build social bonds, fostering community and safety. Well-designed green spaces with walkways and cycling paths encourage people to use vehicles less, improving air quality and alleviating congestion.2. Physical Well-Being and Stress ReductionSpending time in green spaces, such as through forest bathing, helps regulate blood pressure and promotes a sense of calm. Office workers with views of trees report lower stress levels and higher job satisfaction. Trees can also reduce surface temperatures by up to 12°C, helping to mitigate heat-related health issues. Research by Forest Research in the UK has found that visiting forests supports mental well-being and could save the National Health Service (NHS) up to £185 million each year in healthcare costs.3. Enhancing Emotional and Cognitive DevelopmentNature helps alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety, particularly among young people. Just five minutes in a green space can yield mental health benefits. Additionally, exposure to nature stimulates brain regions associated with creativity and problem-solving, improving focus and workplace productivity. Studies on children indicate that playing and learning in green environments enhance cognitive development, memory retention, and analytical thinking. Walking through a park or forest also provides a mental break from daily stressors, leading to greater relaxation and long-term happiness.4. Creating Safer CommunitiesAreas with fewer trees often experience higher rates of crime and violence. Urban greenery can help reduce fear and enhance community safety. Well-maintained green spaces encourage people to spend more time in public areas, fostering natural surveillance that deters crime, such as theft and assault. Additionally, roadside trees significantly improve indoor air quality, reducing nearby pollution levels by more than 50%. Trees also help mitigate noise pollution from traffic and urban activities, contributing to a more peaceful and livable community.Trees clearly play a crucial role in promoting human health and well-being. Beyond improving air and water quality, trees provide habitats for wildlife, foster social connections, and support overall public health. Trees further offer a cost-effective solution for mitigating the severe impacts of climate change, such as heat waves, droughts, and flooding. Recognizing the importance of trees not only enhances our quality of life but also helps build healthier, safer, and more vibrant communities.Story by Vasuta Chan, Senior Sustainable Designer, LEED AP BD+C, WELL AP, Fitwel Ambassador, RISCReference by1. TreePeople Organization. (n.d.). 22 benefits of trees. Retrieved from https://treepeople.org/22-benefits-of-trees/​2. Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. (2021). The health benefits of trees. Retrieved from https://hsph.harvard.edu/news/the-health-benefits-of-trees/​3. Arbor Day Foundation. (n.d.). The value of trees. Retrieved from https://www.arborday.org/value​4. NHS Forest. (n.d.). Why do humans need trees for health? here's what you.... Retrieved from https://nhsforest.org/blog/humans-need-trees-for-health/​5. Savatree. (n.d.). The importance of trees - learn value and benefit of trees. Retrieved from https://savatree.com/resource-center/tree-varieties/why-trees/​6. Immerse yourself in a forest for better health. Retrieved from https://dec.ny.gov/nature/forests-trees/immerse-yourself-for-better-health

Which Trees Protect You Best from Pollution?

By RISC | 1 month ago

Your air purifier might be working hard during the dust season but trees are also heroes in filtering out dust!Trees can trap PM2.5 with hairy, smooth, or rough leaves or with their complex branches. They also absorb pollutants through their stomata while performing photosynthesis.16 plant species were tested with incense smoke inside a box for 30 minutes. "Aglaonema" worked best, capturing PM2.5 at 30.87%, followed by the "Snake Plant" with 23.70%.Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chairat Tri-Trapsuntorn tested plants in a closed system with a 1 cubic meter volume, starting with a PM2.5 concentration of 450-500 micrograms per cubic meter. "Velvet Carpet" reduced dust by over 60% and "Snake Plant" by over 40%. These ornamental plants can grow indoors or near windows to capture dust before it blows into your house.If you have outdoor space, you can also design a garden to help reduce pollution.Researchers from King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi, Srinakharinwirot University, and Kasetsart University published a prototype garden using trees to sustainably reduce PM2.5 dust, supported by the National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT). This garden mimics an ecosystem where trees have diverse characteristics. They selected trees with 3 height levels:- Large trees, such as Royal Poinciana, Indian Rosewood, and Champak- Medium-sized trees, such as Moke and Ficus- Shrubs, such as Areca Palm, Peace Lily, Bird’s Nest Fern, Aglaonema, Calathea, and Peacock CalatheaThe 3-tiered planting system helps to block and trap dust. Plant at least 2 layers: a layer of small shrubs facing the wind and a second layer alternating between medium-sized shrubs and large trees. This arrangement slows airflow and allows the dust particles to be trapped more effectively by plant leaves. Moisture from transpiration increases the weight of the dust particles, making them fall faster. Watering the plants once a week helps clean the leaves and increase soil moisture. The system can block dust by 20-60%.Story by Panpisu Julpanwattana, Senior Sustainable Designer and TREES-A Specialist, RISC​References:Kantitat Thapsuwan, Siradech Surit. (2021). Dust Particle Capture from Incense Smoke Using Indoor Plants. Journal of Buddhist Social Science and Anthropology, 6(12), 80-93.Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chairat Treesubsuntorn. (2022). Sustainable PM Phytoremediation by Perennial Plants. National Research Council of Thailand.