Can Toilets Affect Our Health?

By RISC | 1 week ago

If our stool can reveal insights about our health, then so can proper, clean, and hygienic toilets. Poor hygiene, inadequate sanitation, lack of access to clean water, and consumption of contaminated water can lead to diarrheal diseases. While preventable and treatable, diarrhea remains the third leading cause of death among children under five. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF, over 1,000 children die from diarrhea every day, totaling more than 400,000 deaths annually.To raise awareness of the importance of hygiene and sanitation, the World Toilet Organization (WTO) established World Toilet Day on November 19, recognized by the United Nations. This day serves as a launchpad for global campaigns and aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6, which aims to ensure access to clean water and sanitation for all. Target 6.2 specifically focuses on providing adequate and equitable sanitation and hygiene, ending open defecation by 2030, with special attention to the needs of women, girls, and vulnerable groups.Clearly, the lack of quality toilets is not a minor issue—it is a national public health concern. Addressing it requires adequate public utilities, well-designed and maintained restrooms, and proper waste management systems.The Ministry of Public Health has introduced the National Public Toilet Standard (HAS), based on three core principles: Clean, Adequate, and Safe, to raise public toilet standards and enhance Thailand’s image. Basic requirements include:✅ Health• All areas—including floors, walls, ceilings, and mirrors—must be clean, stain-free, and dry. Doors, handles, and locks must be fully functional.• Sanitary fixtures such as sinks, faucets, urinals, toilets, bidet sprays, and flush buttons must be clean and in proper working order.• Adequate clean water supply.• Sufficient hand soap and toilet paper.• Proper ventilation and no unpleasant odors.• Trash bins with lids, clean and leak-free.• Wastewater pipes and holding tanks must be intact, with no leaks or damage.• Regular cleaning and monitoring systems in place.• A pleasant environment that supports both physical and mental well-being.✅ Accessibility• Sufficient number of toilets for all users.• Facilities must accommodate everyone, including persons with disabilities, the elderly, and pregnant women.• Public toilets must remain functional during all operating hours.✅ Safety• Toilets should not be in isolated or hidden areas.• Clear male–female separation with visible signage.• Adequate lighting.When all these standards are properly implemented, maintained, and monitored, they significantly improve access to equitable sanitation and hygiene for everyone. While many sectors have made progress, others still require greater awareness and upgrades to meet the standards.According to the 2025 Public Toilet Assessment Report by the Environmental Health Bureau, Department of Health (data as of November 4, 2025), of 7,461 public toilets assessed, 6,999 met the standards, while 462 failed, representing 6% of all assessed facilities. Buildings with the highest number of non-compliant toilets include religious sites, schools, government buildings, and restaurants—places that serve children and the elderly, who are especially vulnerable. Chart showing the results of the toilet assessment for the year 2025Source: Environmental Health Bureau, Department of Health, Ministry of Public Health Public buildings are not the only concern—households must also prioritize hygiene and cleanliness. Even simple practices like handwashing are crucial. Data shows a positive trend in households having designated handwashing areas with water and soap or cleaning products—an encouraging sign that should continue with ongoing promotion and monitoring. Chart showing the proportion of the population using handwashing facilities with soap and waterSource: Office of the National Economic and Social Development Council Toilets matter. Neglecting them affects everyone’s health and well-being. Change begins at home.Story by Saritorn Amornjaruchit, Assistant Vice President, RISC

Did you know that the environment can also affect diabetes?

By RISC | 1 week ago

Many people may be unaware that diabetes is one of the world’s major non-communicable diseases (NCDs), ranking third after cancer and cardiovascular disease.Diabetes is a metabolic disorder, meaning it stems from a disruption in the body’s ability to convert food into energy. Normally, the body breaks food down into glucose, which enters the bloodstream. The hormone insulin, produced by the pancreas, acts like a key allowing glucose to move into cells to be used as energy. When the body doesn’t produce enough insulin or becomes resistant to it, glucose remains in the bloodstream instead of entering the cells, leading to high blood sugar levels.A fasting blood sugar measurement (after at least 8 hours without eating or drinking) of more than 126 mg/dL indicates diabetes. When left uncontrolled, high blood sugar can cause inflammation, damage, and eventually failure of vital organs such as the eyes, kidneys, heart, and nerves—resulting in complications like blindness, chronic kidney disease, heart attacks, or slow-healing wounds that may lead to amputation.Types of Diabetes✅ Type 1 Diabetes — Often diagnosed in children and adolescents. It occurs when the pancreas produces little or no insulin. Lifelong insulin therapy is required.✅ Type 2 Diabetes — The most common type, usually seen in adults. It develops when the body becomes resistant to insulin or does not produce enough. This form is strongly associated with lifestyle factors, including diets high in sugar and fat, overweight or obesity, lack of physical activity, chronic stress, and insufficient sleep.More than 90% of people with diabetes worldwide have Type 2 diabetes, and the number continues to rise—especially in low- and middle-income countries. This trend reflects low awareness and unhealthy eating habits.The good news is that adopting healthier daily routines can significantly reduce your risk. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), adults should consume no more than 6 teaspoons of sugar per day, and children or older no more than 4 teaspoons. Adults are also encouraged to exercise regularly—at least 150 minutes per week. Yet research from Thailand’s Department of Health and the Thai Health Promotion Foundation (ThaiHealth) shows that Thais consume an average of 20 teaspoons of sugar per day, nearly three times the recommended amount.Simple Tips to Prevent Diabetes✅ The 2:1:1 Healthy Plate Rule — Divide each plate into four parts: 2 parts vegetables, 1 part grains (rice or starch), and 1 part protein.✅ Read nutrition labels before buying food or beverages to avoid high-sugar options.Did you also know that your environment can influence your diabetes risk?Recent studies show that beyond lifestyle choices, environmental factors also play a meaningful role. For example:▪ Light at Night (LAN): Exposure to light at night disrupts glucose regulation and increases diabetes risk. White light at moderate brightness (50–150 lux) causes a greater rise in blood glucose compared to dim light (5–20 lux). Consistent nighttime light exposure is linked to higher blood sugar, insulin resistance, and a greater incidence of Type 2 diabetes. Communities exposed to higher nighttime light levels show a 28% higher prevalence of diabetes than those living in darker areas.▪ Air Pollution: Pollutants such as nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), tobacco smoke, and particulate matter (PM) are significantly associated with increased diabetes risk. Air pollution can alter biological markers related to inflammation, glucose regulation, insulin resistance, and mitochondrial function—all of which contribute to the development of Type 2 diabetes.Every year, 14 November is observed as World Diabetes Day, a global effort to raise awareness about a chronic disease affecting more than 600 million people worldwide—with numbers still increasing.Diabetes is not a disease without hope. With the right knowledge, small lifestyle adjustments, and healthier environments—including protecting your natural circadian rhythm—it can be managed and even prevented. These changes make a profound difference in long-term health for yourself and the people you love.Content by: Supunnapang Raksawong, Sustainable Building Material ResearcherReferences1. World Health Organization (WHO). Diabetes. Available at: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/diabetes2. Siriraj Diabetes Center, Mahidol University. Healthy Plate 2:1:1. Available at: https://www.si.mahidol.ac.th/th/division/diabetes/ct_knowledgesdetail.asp?div_id=44&kl_id=343. Golden Jubilee Medical Center, Mahidol University. Healthy Living Made Simple: Just Cut Down on Sugar. Available at: https://www.gj.mahidol.ac.th/main/sweet/4. Opperhuizen, A.L., Stenvers, D.J., Jansen, R.D., Foppen, E., Fliers, E., & Kalsbeek, A. (2017). Light at night acutely impairs glucose tolerance in a time-, intensity- and wavelength-dependent manner in rats. Diabetologia, 60(7), 1333–1343.5. Zheng, R., Xin, Z., Li, M., et al. (2023). Outdoor light at night in relation to glucose homoeostasis and diabetes in Chinese adults: a national and cross-sectional study of 98,658 participants from 162 study sites. Diabetologia, 66, 336–345.6. Li, Y., Xu, L., Shan, Z., Teng, W., & Han, C. (2019). Association between air pollution and type 2 diabetes: an updated review of the literature. Therapeutic Advances in Endocrinology and Metabolism.

Let’s Build a City of Kindness — Where Everyone Belongs

By RISC | 2 weeks ago

Did You Know? In Thailand, there are millions of persons with disabilities, yet only a small proportion can live freely and safely. The main challenge often doesn’t lie in their abilities but in the environments around them, which still fall short of supporting truly independent living. According to data from the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Ministry of Social Development and Human Security (as of April 30, 2025), there are 2,242,693 persons with disabilities in Thailand, accounting for 3.39% of the population.The most common types of disabilities include Physical or mobility impairments: 51.98%, Hearing or communication impairments: 19.28%, Visual impairments: 7.65%, Mental or behavioral impairments: 7.34%, Among all working-age persons with disabilities, only 24.26% are employed.In Thailand, disabilities are categorized into seven types — visual, hearing or communication, physical, mental or behavioral, intellectual, learning, and autism spectrum disorder. Some individuals experience multiple disabilities at once, making daily life even more challenging.Why Should We Understand Different Types of Disabilities? Because awareness empowers us to design spaces that respond to diverse needs and ensure equal access to everyday life. Imagine a city where buildings and public spaces are designed so that everyone — including persons with disabilities — can live independently and enjoy equal opportunities.So how can we make daily life easier and more inclusive?Here are some key inclusive design ideas for different types of impairments: Design for Persons with Physical Disabilities: Spaces and facilities should enable smooth mobility and accessibility. Floors should be level throughout; if changes in level occur, ramps should be provided with a maximum slope of 1:12. Sliding doors are preferable. Corridors and doorways should be at least 90 cm wide with no obstructions. Turning spaces should have a diameter of at least 150 cm. Handrails should be continuous, 4 cm in diameter, and 80–90 cm high from the floor. Design for Persons with Visual Impairments: Most individuals use a white cane to detect obstacles. Walkways should be at least 120 cm wide. Braille signs should be placed 120–150 cm above floor level for easy reach. Use tactile paving — dotted patterns for warnings and linear patterns for directional guidance. Sound cues are essential, such as beeping traffic lights, elevator floor announcements, and auditory alerts for hazards. Design for Persons with Hearing Impairments: When sound cannot be used, visual or tactile signals become vital. Include text captions with any video or audio messages. Use color codes or symbols to indicate important areas. Replace auditory alarms with flashing lights or vibration alerts. Provide subtitles or sign language interpretation in videos or films. Design for Persons with Autism Spectrum Disorder: Since individuals may be hypersensitive or hyposensitive to stimuli, spaces should be calm and non-overstimulating. Use warm light tones and conceal direct light sources. Avoid strong scents or air fresheners. Choose soft materials to minimize noise and injury risk. Use furniture with rounded edges or add padding to sharp corners. Maintain clean, smooth surfaces to reduce sensory triggers. Provide quiet rooms for emotional regulation when overstimulated. National Day of Persons with Disabilities — November 8, this day celebrates the value and dignity of persons with disabilities, promoting equality and inclusion across society. Everyone deserves equal rights and opportunities.At RISC and MQDC, we continue to champion inclusive design and raise awareness of environments that work for everyone. Through MQDC’s design standards, we strive to ensure that every individual can live confidently, safely, and independently — a true reflection of our vision for a “Kindness Society” that cares for all.For more information on inclusive design: https://asa.or.th/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/BAEDRFA.pdf or https://surl.li/igydxeStory by Dr. Sarigga Pongsuwan, Vice President of RISC and Head of Happiness Science Hub​ References byDepartment of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Ministry of Social Development and Human Security (2025)Nuanwan Thuaycharoen (2022). Designing Homes for Children with Autism, Center of Universal Design, Kasetsart UniversityAssociation of Siamese Architects under Royal Patronage (2014). Guidelines for Universal Design

Do Dogs Howl Because They See Ghosts Or Are They Trying to Tell Us Something?

By RISC | 1 month ago

When it comes to spooky stories, a dog’s howl often makes us wonder… is it howling because it sees a ghost, or is there another reason?While the sound of a dog howling at night can give us goosebumps and spark our imagination about the supernatural, the reality is usually much simpler. Dogs may howl naturally in response to environmental stimuli like sounds or smells, or due to emotions such as loneliness, anxiety, hunger, or even physical discomfort.So, what can we do to prevent our dogs from howling? The first step is to understand the cause — only then can we address it effectively. Wicket Door – If your dog often howls or scratches at the door wanting to go outside to play or relieve itself, consider installing a specially designed wicket door. This allows your dog to move freely between the room, balcony, or designated toilet area without waiting for you to open or close the door. Soundproof Walls – Dogs with sensitive hearing may react to every little sound — from other dogs howling in the neighborhood, music from next door, nighttime sirens, to high-frequency noises humans can’t hear. In such cases, soundproof walls are essential. Thicker walls or added insulation can minimize unwanted noise from outside. For those living in condominiums or shared buildings, dogs may bark or howl when they hear footsteps in the hallway if the unit wasn’t designed with sound insulation in mind. When choosing a condo, it’s worth checking that the walls provide good soundproofing. As a guideline: Walls between a unit and a corridor should have a Sound Transmission Class (STC) rating of at least 45 (e.g., 15 cm thick lightweight concrete walls). Walls between residential units should have an STC rating of at least 50 (20 cm thick lightweight concrete walls). For superior performance, an STC rating of 55 is recommended (e.g., double-layer lightweight concrete walls with an air gap, totaling 25 cm in thickness). Soundproof Doors – Doors can also transmit noise. To reduce sound, choose solid-core doors or doors with built-in soundproof insulation. For best results, install rubber seals around the edges and bottom to block any gaps where sound could pass through. Ventilation Systems to Reduce Odors – Unpleasant smells inside or outside the home can cause discomfort or anxiety in dogs, triggering barking or howling. Adequate windows for natural ventilation help disperse odors. Even better, mechanical ventilation or an air-exchange system can quickly eliminate unwanted smells and improve indoor air quality. The most effective way to prevent unexplained howling is through attentive care and affection. When dogs feel loved and secure, they are far less likely to feel anxious or lonely. Pay close attention to their behavior — if signs of illness or distress appear, take them to the vet promptly. Ensure their well-being through proper food, clean water, regular exercise, and time outdoors. Access to nearby green spaces also allows dogs to burn energy happily while enjoying quality time with their owners.If you need to be away during the day, it’s important to give your dog some freedom — a chance to walk around, enjoy the view, and breathe fresh air. This helps them relax, relieve stress, and reduce anxiety.Sharing a happy living space nurtures not only emotional well-being but also contributes to better physical health — for both you and your pets.As for the supernatural — who’s to say what’s real? But next time you hear a dog howling at night, don’t be alarmed or annoyed. Instead, take a moment to check if something might be wrong — with your own dog or perhaps a neighbor’s. After all, that howl might be their way of communicating or asking for help.Whizdom The Forestias Petopia — a forest-view condominium surrounded by 30 rai of greenery — is thoughtfully designed with a deep understanding of both pet and owner lifestyles. Features such as a Wicket Door for pet freedom, double-layer soundproof walls, sound-insulated doors with Door Seal and Drop Seal systems, and an ERV and Fresh Air Fan to keep indoor air clean and fresh all come together to create a home where both you and your pets can truly share happiness.Story by Saritorn Amornjaruchit, Assistant Vice President, RISC

From “Vegetarianism” to Designing a Sustainable Way of Life

By RISC | 1 month ago

When we think of the Vegetarian Festival, we often associate it with a time of abstaining from meat and animal-based products. The tradition began as a way to minimize harm and avoid disturbing the lives of animals. It also stems from the ancient Chinese belief that during this nine-day, nine-night period, deities descend to protect and bless those who observe the precepts. Traditionally, this practice honors seven Buddhas of the past and two Bodhisattvas, nine divine beings in total.Today, as people place greater emphasis on their health and well-being, the Vegetarian Festival has become a symbolic starting point for those looking to reduce meat consumption and embrace more plant-based foods. It serves as both a motivator and a shared experience — a moment of connection among friends and families who take part together.On the physical health front, meals made from vegetables, fruits, and grains help reduce saturated fat intake while increasing dietary fiber, supporting digestion and lowering the risk of chronic diseases. Research indicates that a diet rich in legumes can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by up to 21% and lower cancer-related mortality by 11%. At the same time, shifting away from meat-based diets can help cut greenhouse gas emissions by as much as 20.2 million tons, promoting both personal and planetary health.Beyond the physical benefits, following a vegetarian diet cultivates self-discipline and mindfulness with every meal. A calm, conscious mind forms the foundation of well-being — encompassing not only physical health but also emotional balance and social harmony. It also nurtures compassion and respect for all living things, key elements of holistic well-being for both body and mind.More importantly, vegetarianism reflects the idea of “designing sustainable behaviors.” Even a small step such as practicing vegetarianism for nine days a year — can make a measurable difference. According to the United Nations (UN), adopting a plant-based diet can reduce an individual’s carbon footprint by 5.75 kilograms of CO₂ per day. Over nine days, that adds up to about 50–55 kilograms of CO₂ — a tangible reduction compared to a typical meat-inclusive diet.Yet beyond the numbers, this practice nurtures awareness and intention — encouraging people to make choices that benefit both their health and the environment. In the context of well-being, sustainable behavior design isn’t about temporary change; it’s about laying the foundation for lasting, meaningful habits — such as choosing fresh, nutritious foods, being mindful of ingredient sources, and reducing resource waste. Together, these actions reflect a genuine effort to live more consciously and sustainably.The Vegetarian Festival, therefore, is far more than a cultural tradition. It represents a small yet powerful beginning — a catalyst for transforming everyday living into a more meaningful, balanced, and sustainable way of life. When we realize that “every choice is a design,” we can turn this annual practice into a lifelong journey toward true sustainability — for our body, mind, society, and the planet.Story by Wacharakorn Maneechote, Sustainable Designer, Well-Being Research Integrations, RISC References byhttps://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2161831323000686 ​https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/12/19/8228​https://www.un.org/en/actnow/food​

A Warm Family: The Beginning of Lasting Mental Well-Being

By RISC | 1 month ago

Have you noticed how many people around us have been struggling with insomnia, stress, or even depression in recent years?According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 970 million people worldwide—or roughly 1 in 8—are living with mental health conditions. Among adolescents aged 10–19, who make up one-sixth of the global population, as many as 1 in 7 (14.3%) experience mental health issues, many of whom may not even realize it or have access to proper care.In Thailand, data from the Department of Mental Health’s “Mental Health Check-in” (2020–2024) shows that 8.04% of people reported high stress, 9.47% were at risk of depression, and 5.39% were at risk of suicide.The figures are even more concerning among Thai adolescents under 20 — 24.83% reported high stress, 29.51% were at risk of depression, and 20.35% were at risk of suicide. These rates are three to four times higher than those in other age groups.So, how can we improve our mental health? And where should we begin? Let’s look at two research studies that highlight the crucial role of family relationships in fostering mental well-being.The first study, conducted by Bian, Y., Jin, K., and Zhang, Y. in China, analyzed data from 90,023 participants across multiple countries. It revealed that families with higher levels of cohesion and mutual support had a significantly lower likelihood of depression.Another study, by An, J., Zhu, X., Shi, Z., and An, J., also from China, explored the impact of perceived family support. The findings showed that it’s not merely about having a family — what truly matters is feeling supported by one’s family. When family members can openly share their concerns and communicate effectively, it enhances emotional well-being, strengthens social connections, and even contributes to better physical health.These findings echo many other studies affirming that family is the foundation and essential space for building emotional resilience and supporting the mental well-being of adolescents — and of every member in the household.At Mulberry Grove The Forestias, this belief is embedded in its design philosophy: “Good mental health begins at home.”Each home is thoughtfully crafted to nurture connection and visibility among family members, whether on the same floor or across different levels, allowing everyone to see and engage with one another naturally throughout the day. Shared spaces are designed to encourage interaction and meaningful conversations — warm, inviting areas where families can relax, bond, and enjoy quality time together.These moments of togetherness strengthen relationships, build positive emotions, and promote both mental and emotional well-being — truly making home the starting point for a happier, healthier life.Story by Dr. Sarigga Pongsuwan, Vice President of RISC and Head of Happiness Science HubReferences byHfocus. (2024, มีนาคม). ชื่อบทความ. Hfocus. สืบค้นเมื่อ 3 เดือนตุลาคม จาก https://www.hfocus.org/content/2024/03/30088Hfocus. (2025, กรกฎาคม). ชื่อบทความ. Hfocus. สืบค้นเมื่อ 3 เดือนตุลาคม จาก https://www.hfocus.org/content/2025/07/34568An, J., Zhu, X., Shi, Z., & An, J. (2024). A serial mediating effect of perceived family support on psychological well-being. [BMC Public Health], [2024], DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-024-18476-zBian, Y., Jin, K., & Zhang, Y. (2024). The association between family cohesion and depression: A systematic review and meta-analysis. [PubMed, National Library of Medicine], [2024], DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.03.138

Brain Care Tips for a Longer, Happier Life

By RISC | 2 months ago

Did you know? Proper brain care in older age not only helps reduce the risk of dementia but also enables seniors to live independently, happily, and with greater self-reliance for longer. Thailand currently has over 13 million elderly people—about 20% of the total population. Within the next 30 years, this number is expected to surpass 20 million. As our society ages, one of the key challenges is ensuring quality healthcare for seniors—especially brain health, which plays a crucial role in overall well-being.Why Is Brain Health Important in Later Life?The brain is a complex and delicate organ responsible for thinking, decision-making, memory, and everyday functions. As we age, brain cells and their connections gradually decline, leading to slower processing, reduced memory, and increased risk of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease.However, even in later life, the brain remains remarkably adaptable. With proper care and regular stimulation, cognitive decline can be slowed—helping seniors live with confidence, happiness, and a strong sense of purpose.Caring for an aging brain doesn’t have to be complicated. With consistency and a holistic approach, you can strengthen brain health through:1. Regular exercise – Activities like walking, yoga, tai chi, or swimming for at least 30 minutes a day improve blood and oxygen flow to the brain, lower stroke risk, and stimulate neurotransmitters essential for memory and mood.2. A brain-boosting diet – Eat foods rich in omega-3s, antioxidants, and vitamins—such as salmon, tuna, leafy greens, nuts, whole grains, and colorful fruits—to reduce inflammation and slow brain aging.3. Quality sleep – Getting 7–8 hours of restful sleep each night helps consolidate memories, relieve stress, and reduce the risk of dementia.4. Continuous mental stimulation – Reading, solving puzzles, learning new skills, or practicing a new language helps keep the brain flexible and encourages new neural connections.5. Social engagement – Staying socially active through conversations, family gatherings, or community events reduces loneliness and stress while stimulating brain regions tied to emotion and memory.6. Regular brain checkups – Routine screenings and cognitive assessments help detect risks early, allowing for timely intervention and rehabilitation.Every year on 1 October, the International Day of Older Persons reminds us to recognize the value, wisdom, and potential of seniors. It also encourages all sectors to foster supportive environments that enhance their quality of life.At The Aspen Tree  The Forestias, this philosophy comes to life through a holistic eldercare model that supports physical, emotional, and brain health. In collaboration with Baycrest, Canada—a world leader in aging research and care—the project integrates global expertise and evidence-based brain health programs into Thailand’s senior care landscape.• Health & Brain Center – Offers brain assessments and cognitive training programs to evaluate abilities and identify risks.• Senior-friendly activities and environments – Designed to encourage movement, lifelong learning, and social interaction.• Holistic care approach – Promotes physical vitality, emotional balance, and optimal brain function.Through this collaboration, The Aspen Tree bridges international standards with practical, compassionate care—enhancing the quality of life for Thai seniors so they may live with confidence, happiness, and dignity for years to come.Story by Sittha Preedapirat, Senior Researcher, Brain-Computer Interface, Happiness Science Hub, RISCReference byhttps://www.baycrest.org/Baycrest-Pages/News-Media/News/Baycrest-Global-Solutions/A-place-to-age-successfully​https://mqdc.com/aspentree​

Rabies: Love Responsibly, Live Safely

By RISC | 2 months ago

Animal lovers, take note!Every animal has its own charm—whether it’s a pet or a stray you encounter on the street. It’s natural to want to touch, feed, or play with them—but letting your guard down can have life-threatening consequences.As the old saying goes: “Never fully trust a furry face.”According to Thailand’s rabies report in August 2025, there have been 7 confirmed cases this year—and all 7 patients unfortunately passed away. The most recent case involved a person who had not received a rabies vaccine after being bitten by a stray dog.Pets bring joy, but they can also transmit diseases if we are careless, unhygienic, or fail to ensure their welfare. Zoonotic diseases—infectious diseases that can pass between animals and humans—are a key concern. Transmission can occur from animals to humans or vice versa.Examples of zoonoses include:1. Viruses – Rabies, Avian Influenza2. Bacteria – Leptospirosis, Tetanus, Tularemia3. Fungi – Ringworm from cats, fungal infections from bird droppings4. Parasites – Hookworm, Roundworm, ToxoplasmosisRabies is one of the most serious. It spreads through saliva, usually via bites or scratches from infected animals, attacking the nervous system and brain. Without immediate wound cleaning and post-exposure vaccination, rabies is almost always fatal. Prevention is therefore critical.9 September 2025, rabies-infected animals were confirmed in Bangkok. Authorities warned residents to avoid contact with stray animals within a 5-kilometer radius. Anyone bitten or scratched must immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water, and seek medical attention for vaccination. When rabies is detected in an area, authorities establish a temporary epidemic zone, tag and isolate affected animals, disinfect the area, and implement disease control measures under the Animal Epidemic Act B.E. 2558 (2015).Rabies is not limited to dogs—cats, horses, monkeys, cattle, buffalo, rats, squirrels, and chipmunks can also carry the virus. Immediate wound cleaning and medical consultation are essential for safety.Although vaccines exist, data from the Thai Rabies Net surveillance system show that cases continue to be reported nationwide. Top 10 rabies outbreak areas in the past 30 days (Aug 11 – Sept 10, 2025) A 2019 survey by the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University found approximately 109,123 stray dogs (5% of the total 2,173,999 dogs) and 55,021 stray cats (6.4% of the total 854,256 cats) nationwide. These unowned animals lack proper care, increasing their risk of becoming disease carriers. With effective control measures and public cooperation, however, rabies can be eradicated. Responsible pet ownership: Animal lovers must be cautious. Avoid strays that appear fearful, aggressive, or sick. Show love to your pets responsibly.Owners should understand their pets’ behavior to prevent accidental bites or scratches and protect them from attacks by strays. Maintaining hygiene—regular vet visits, health check-ups, and vaccinations—is crucial.Under the Rabies Act B.E. 2535 (1992), all dogs and cats must be vaccinated. The first rabies vaccination should be given between 2–4 months of age. Non-compliance may result in legal penalties. Regular deworming is also recommended. Always wash your hands after touching pets, playing, cleaning them, or handling their waste—especially before eating. Pets should also be registered with local authorities or licensed veterinary clinics for proper welfare.In Bangkok, pet registration and microchipping will soon be mandatory under the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration Animal Control Ordinance B.E. 2567 (2024), effective January 10, 2026. Owners must microchip, register, and obtain ID cards for dogs and cats within 120 days of birth or within 30 days of acquisition. The goal is to reduce stray populations and promote responsible pet ownership.To love animals is to love them responsibly.On World Rabies Day, September 28, let’s raise awareness and prevent rabies together with the Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health, under the theme: “Don’t wait! Act together to stop rabies.”Story by: Saritorn Amornjaruchit, Assistant Vice President, RISCReferences:Bangkok Metropolitan Administration Animal Control Ordinance B.E. 2567 (2024)Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University: Zoonoses – Diseases Transmissible from Animals and HumansRabies Act B.E. 2535 (1992), Royal Gazette Vol. 109, Part 9Animal Epidemic Act B.E. 2558 (2015), Royal Gazette Vol. 132, Part 14KThai Rabies Surveillance System (Thai Rabies Net): http://www.thairabies.net/trn/

Cut Carbon from Cars—Let’s Drive Less

By RISC | 2 months ago

Did you know that in 2024, global carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions reached a record high of around 41.6 billion metric tons, up from 40.6 billion metric tons in 2023?These emissions come from many sectors—energy, industry, agriculture and land use, and transportation. Among them, transportation plays a critical role, not only in global logistics but also in our daily lives, as we continue to depend heavily on cars and other vehicles for mobility.When compared with other sectors, transportation ranks fourth, accounting for about 15% of total emissions—following energy (34%), industry (24%), and agriculture, forestry, and land use (22%).Many people assume cars produce less CO₂ than other forms of transport. In reality, almost half of all transport-related CO₂ emissions come from private cars and vans. This highlights that climate change is not driven only by factories or large-scale industries in major economies—it’s also shaped by the everyday choices we make each time we start the car to commute, run errands, or go shopping.22 September is World Car Free Day—an ideal moment to cut down on car use and embrace public transport. This shift not only reduces emissions and protects the planet but also improves our health by lowering exposure to harmful air pollution.Real estate development can play a key role in this transition. By designing communities that encourage walking and reduce reliance on cars, developers can help lower emissions on a broader scale. The Forestias, for example, has been master-planned with extensive pedestrian pathways, shaded green routes that make walking inviting, and minimized road space so cars are used only when truly necessary. This approach fosters enjoyable walking experiences while promoting both sustainability and healthier lifestyles.Story by Sirapach Mangkang, Geographic Information System (GIS) specialist, RISCReference byhttps://www.undp.org/thailand/stories/climate-agriculture-ghg​https://ourworldindata.org/travel-carbon-footprint​https://www.statista.com/chart/30890/estimated-share-of-co2-emissions-in-the-transportation-sector/​

Cool comfort, Zero Harm: Next-Generation Refrigerants for a Healthier Planet

By RISC | 2 months ago

Did you know that the new generation of HFO refrigerants is even more eco-friendly?We often overlook how much our everyday appliances, air conditioners and refrigerators can impact the ozone layer. The key lies in refrigerants. If the wrong ones are used, they can significantly damage the ozone layer and accelerate global warming.In the past, chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) were widely used for their excellent cooling efficiency, non-flammability, and low toxicity. But CFCs are extremely stable and persist in the atmosphere for decades. When exposed to UV radiation, they release chlorine radicals that destroy ozone molecules, leading to ozone depletion and global warming.As the damage became undeniable, the world phased out CFCs in favor of hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), which were less harmful but still contributed to global warming. Countries, including Thailand, have since moved to discontinue them.Today, newer alternatives have emerged:• Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs): Ozone-safe (ODP = 0) but with very high global warming potential (GWP = 1,000–10,000).• Hydrofluoroolefins (HFOs): Ozone-safe (ODP = 0) with an ultra-low GWP (1–10).When choosing air conditioners or refrigerators, always check that the refrigerant has an ODP of 0 and a low GWP. This helps protect the ozone layer and reduces climate impact.World Ozone Day, 16 September reminds us of the ozone layer’s crucial role as Earth’s protective shield. It absorbs harmful ultraviolet rays—especially UVB and UVC—that can cause skin cancer, cataracts, crop damage, ecosystem disruption, and rising global temperatures if left unchecked.At The Forestias, we are taking real action. Our cooling systems use HFO R1234ze, one of the world’s most eco-friendly refrigerants, with an ODP of 0 and a GWP of less than 1. This transition cuts carbon emissions by up to 43,869 tCO₂e annually compared with traditional HFCs.It’s a major step toward building a community that is environmentally responsible—and safe for generations to come.Content by: Supunnapang Raksawong, Sustainable Building Material Researcher