SCGP Urges Packaging Industry to Transform for Lower Greenhouse Gas Emissions

In response to the growing global emphasis on reducing greenhouse gas emissions to combat climate change and promote sustainability, SCG Packaging Public Company Limited (SCGP) recently organized a seminar titled “Sustainable Synergy for Decarbonization.” The event provided a platform for manufacturers, SMEs, and financial institutions within the packaging industry value chain to exchange perspectives on the challenges and best practices for jointly reducing greenhouse gas emissions and fostering a sustainable environment.

Carbon Footprint: A Cornerstone of Sustainability

Wichan Jitpakdee, Chief Executive Officer of SCGP, emphasized the urgent need for businesses to adapt to the rapidly changing world, particularly through sustainability transformation, which is deeply embedded in SCG’s corporate DNA. SCGP has set ambitious goals to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 25% by 2030 and achieve Net Zero by 2050. The company’s strategy includes assessing its carbon footprint, transitioning to low-carbon fuels by installing solar roofs and using biomass instead of coal, and leveraging artificial intelligence to enhance energy efficiency. These efforts are expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by one million tons. SCGP is also engaged in reforestation, recycling plastic waste, and producing eco-friendly products, with 128 of its offerings certified with the Carbon Footprint of Product (CFP) label by the Greenhouse Gas Management Organization (TGO).

Collaborating for Environmental Sustainability

During the seminar, Mr. Suthipong Limsila, Head of Corporate Strategy at Kao Industrial (Thailand) Co., Ltd., highlighted Kao’s commitment to sustainability through its Kirei Lifestyle Plan. This strategy focuses on developing environmentally friendly products, reducing plastic use by up to 70%, and increasing the proportion of renewable energy used in operations. Kao aims to achieve Net Zero by 2040 and become carbon-negative by 2050.

Empowering SMEs to Tackle Climate Change

Yuthana Chiamtrakarn, Chairman of the Committee for the Promotion of Circular Economy and Environment at the Thai Chamber of Commerce, pointed out that only 30% of the chamber’s 140,000 members are aware of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles. He stressed the importance of SMEs familiarizing themselves with the Climate Change Act and other environmental regulations to enhance competitiveness and align with global sustainability trends.

Supporting the Value Chain in Reducing Carbon Emissions

Chaweng Setthaporn, Head of Credit Product Development at Bank of Ayudhya PCL, introduced the “Krungsri SME Transition Loan,” designed to help SMEs finance projects that reduce carbon emissions. The bank also offers the Krungsri ESG Academy, which provides in-depth support to businesses committed to sustainability.

Entrepreneurs like Saichol Anukul, Manager of Power Plant and Biogas at Chok Yong Yong Industry Co., Ltd., shared their experiences in transitioning to renewable energy. The company, which operates a tapioca flour factory, uses wastewater to produce biogas, covering 60% of its electricity needs. Additionally, the installation of a 5-megawatt solar farm in collaboration with SCGP further reduces the factory’s reliance on non-renewable energy sources.