On September 13, 2024, Khon Kaen University marked a significant milestone by signing a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with CP Axtra Public Company Limited and the Biodiversity-Based Economy Development Office (BEDO). This collaboration, titled the “Zero Food Waste to Protein Insects” project, is set to reduce food waste while supporting local farmers and promoting sustainability.
The ceremony, held at the Golden Jubilee Convention Center at Khon Kaen University, was led by Prof. Dr. Thidarut Boonmars, KKU’s Vice President for Enterprise and Societal Sustainability. Also present were Assoc. Prof. Dr. Darunee Jothityangkoon, Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, Prof. Dr. Yupa Hanboonsong, and Dr. Chutinan Choosai, a researcher from KKU. Representing the university, Dr. Thidarut emphasized that this partnership unites education, government, and the private sector to innovate resource management through circular economy principles.
“This project focuses on reducing food waste from restaurants and supermarkets by repurposing it as feed for Black Soldier Fly larvae. Our collaboration directly supports the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and will be instrumental in cutting food waste while creating new opportunities for farmers,” Dr. Thidarut stated.
KKU’s role is crucial in driving research and information-sharing efforts in partnership with BEDO. This will not only promote sustainable community development but also build networks for biodiversity conservation. The university will coordinate with farmers, particularly those in the northeastern region, providing them with technical guidance on insect farming, which offers significant economic potential.
CP Axtra expressed its excitement about being part of the initiative. Ms. Siriporn Dechsingha, Vice President for Corporate Communications at CP Axtra, highlighted the company’s commitment to donating surplus food from its 2,600 supermarket and restaurant branches, including fruits, vegetables, and fresh or prepared foods, to farmers to be used as insect feed. “By reducing food waste, we are not only helping the environment but also creating tangible benefits for farmers across the country,” she said.
BEDO Deputy Director, Mr. Thanit Sungthavorn, spoke about the agency’s collaboration with KKU in identifying insects with strong economic potential, focusing particularly on the Black Soldier Fly (BSF). “BSF technology is simple and cost-effective, making it highly accessible to farmers. This initiative will help expand the network to other educational institutions and create pathways for young researchers to continue innovating in this field,” he added.
The event also saw participation from Ms. Sirikorn Wiworawong, Deputy Director of the Agricultural Research Development Agency (ARDA), who commended the initiative. She noted that ARDA has consistently supported KKU’s research, especially in the area of Black Soldier Fly farming, a model for practical research with real-world benefits. “We believe this project will drive positive change and contribute to the long-term sustainability of Thai society,” she said.
This groundbreaking collaboration is set to revolutionize food waste management, provide farmers with new income streams, and promote sustainable practices, paving the way for future innovations in agriculture and community development.
