Bangkok: The National Innovation Agency (Public Organization), known as NIA, has partnered with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) to launch a significant initiative aimed at reducing carbon emissions in the cement and concrete sectors. The project, titled 'Innovation Acceleration Programme for Decarbonization of the Cement and Concrete Industries,' seeks to empower Thai entrepreneurs to adopt innovative technologies to significantly cut down on greenhouse gas emissions, advancing towards sustainability. This endeavor falls under the broader 'Decarbonization of the Cement and Concrete Industry in Thailand' project, which has been allocated 8 million Canadian dollars by the Canadian Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (ECCC).
According to Thai News Agency, Dr. Kritchapa Boonfueng, Director of the NIA, emphasized the project's role as a crucial mechanism for steering Thailand towards carbon neutrality. The initiative supports startups, entrepreneurs, and researchers with technology readiness levels (TRL) of 6 or higher. These participants are encouraged to implement technologies and innovations specifically designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions within the cement, concrete, and construction industries. This provides them with practical opportunities and prepares them for both domestic and international markets.
Applications for this project remain open until June 23, 2025. The focus is on startups and technology developers working in three key areas: Process Improvement Technology, which enhances production efficiency; Waste Circular Technology, aimed at recycling waste; and Decarbonization Technology, targeting the reduction of carbon emissions or greenhouse gases.
Selected participants will benefit from guidance by national and international experts, opportunities to present their innovations to industry leaders, access to funding, and partnerships that facilitate the development of prototypes or pilot projects.