19 JANUARY 2024, Bangkok – Research & Innovation for Sustainability Center (RISC) by MQDC was a key partner of “Role and Fate of Forest Ecosystems in a Changing World”, a global forest ecosystem conference by the International Union of Forest Research Organizations (IUFRO), holding a meeting in Thailand for the first time.

RISC presented its vision of "Nature Positive, Carbon Negative” and gave a tour of The Forestias, a new forest district at the heart of Bangkok to advance sustainable real estate development based on understanding and respecting nature. The green neighborhood is also inspiring further research into the relationship between forests and well-being.

IUFRO is a 131-year-old international network with more than 630 member organizations worldwide that research ecosystems, forests, and the environment. The union organizes regular global conferences and small meetings of researchers from each group.

IUFRO’s first meeting in Bangkok gathered researchers working on air pollution and climate change (Research Group 8.04 on "Air Pollution and Climate Change"). More than 80 people from 25 countries presented research to reduce air pollution at King Mongkut's University of Technology Thonburi (KMUTT) supported by RISC.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Singh Intrachooto, Chief Sustainnovation Officer of RISC by MQDC, presented ideas and case studies from Thailand on eco-conscious real estate development where residents live in harmony with nature and enjoy sustainable living in every dimension.

“Global warming is getting more severe. We urgently need to find ways to reduce the impact of our lifestyles on the environment. MQDC supports research for sustainable development such as supporting this conference. In its core business, MQDC has set a very challenging goal: Nature Positive, Carbon Negative. This objective is to look after ecosystems and restore the natural environment while promoting ways of life that don’t release carbon dioxide or pollution. MQDC focuses on innovation to transform real estate development by emphasizing 3 main pillars of sustainable development: 1) Nature & Environment, 2) Living & Infrastructure, and 3) Society & Economy,” said Assoc. Prof. Dr. Singh.

“Although we’re a business, we see it as our duty to lead the way in caring for the environment. In developing real estate projects, MQDC restores the integrity of ecosystems, increases biodiversity, and reduces carbon emissions. Thus, carbon dioxide is a crucial factor for the environment.”

Based on this ethos, environmental and ecological studies are at the heart of MQDC's urban and residential projects. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Singh presented The Forestias in Bangna as a case study for academics at the conference. The Forestias aims to integrate all aspects of knowledge and let scientists and researchers help create residential projects that boost well-being for their communities and the entire ecosystem, from trees to water sources, soil, birds, insects, and wildlife.

“At the center of The Forestias is a ‘Deep Forest’ open only to researchers and ecologists to collect data. Residents can enjoy a nature zone by buildings and amenities. Researchers in every field, both Thai and foreign, collected data in all areas, from quality of soil, water, physical characteristics, types of plants and animals, before designing and developing the project,” said Assoc. Prof. Dr. Singh.

“Tree planting was planned to attract animals to maintain biodiversity while also being safe for residents. Interior decoration focuses on natural materials such as wood and materials that emit little carbon and blend in with the environment. Electricity, water, and lighting systems make use of nature and reduce pollution. World-class experts are helping develop luminous plants that glow at night to provide natural lighting.”

On the last day of the conference, RISC hosted 3 lectures at DTGO CampUs and a tour of The Forestias.

Dr. Rungnapar Pattanavibool, Advisor to Director General and Former Deputy Director General of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, spoke on “Global Warming's Effects on Thailand's Forests and the Nation's Plans for Forest Recovery”.

“Biodiversity Knowledge Implementation for All Well-Being” was presented by Mr. Surin Warachun, RISC Advisor and Assistant Vice President of The Forestias. “Nature-Based Solution and Biodiversity Preservation” was given by Dr. Sirin Kawlaierd, an expert in ecosystem restoration, and Dr. Anong Chanamol, an expert in Miyawaki Eco-Forests, Eco-Forest Advisor to MQDC, and Advisor to the Environmental Research and Training Center.

Conference attendees gained insights into applying research in real projects and explored a prototype green development that cares for all lives, prompting further research into the link between forest ecosystems and human well-being.

MQDC’s presentation inspired the academics to see how research leads to valuable business innovations and practical applications that support sustainable urban development, quality of life, and environmental conservation.

“This is the first time that IUFRO has held a meeting in Thailand, reflecting the importance given to the country. The world-class researchers who took part were fascinated by the idea of linking forests with well-being. They saw us as a compelling case study of a private-sector project in a major city applying research in real-world projects. The conference is a success for Thailand. Being a partner of this international event also helps build a strong forest ecosystem network,” said Assoc. Prof. Dr. Singh.