The Bachelor in Business Administration (BBA) program of Mahidol University International College (MUIC) had the pleasure to host on February 19, 2025 a special lecture in collaboration with the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) – ESG Academy and Sustainability Education Department. The event took place at the Aditayathorn Building of MUIC, and continued BBA’s series of special sessions jointly organized between MUIC and SET on the Business Sustainability theme.

The distinct event was dedicated to the importance of sustainability for business success, and it featured three distinguished guest speakers from the industry: Ms. Solaya Na Songkhla, First Senior Vice President and head of the Corporate Sustainability of B. Grimm Power; Ms. Varaporn Osatanon, Head of Sustainability and Climate Management of B. Grimm Power; and Mr. Worrawat Sriyook, Advisor for Sustainable Development and Former Vice President of Mitr Phol Group.

Ms. Solaya and Ms. Varaporn started by sharing the history of B. Grimm from its beginning in the 19^th Century in the pharmaceutical business and over time expanded to several other areas, including energy. Nowadays, B. Grimm Power is a leading industrial power producer in Thailand, focusing on renewable energy and cleaner energy production. For this company, sustainability is deeply connected to the efficiency in using natural resources, but goes beyond it, aiming to create value to its several stakeholders. Employees and safety conditions at work, as well as well-being of communities are examples of their key priorities.

Mr. Worrawat also introduced the Mitr Phol Group, which is widely known in Thailand as a sugar manufacturer, and highlighted that in recent years the company also expanded its business to energy production. Using bagasse and cane leaf as raw materials for renewable power plants is not only a positive contribution to reduce greenhouse gases emissions and contribute to the zero-net target, but also a valuable opportunity to diversify and grow the business. In the near future, the group has plans to continue expanding its business in the area of bio-based chemical products, such as skincare, cosmetics and bioplastics. By using waste from sugar production for the creation of valuable new products, the group contributes to the economic circularity.

The guest speakers agreed that the road to sustainable business practices poses challenges and is a non-linear learning path, but a journey that all companies need to embrace for their survival and success. Along the way, it is important to balance goals and costs, understanding what is happening around the world to keep business competitive.

This special lecture also had a much participative and engaging workshop, in which business students jointly discussed with guest speakers some of the areas they consider will bring future business opportunities.

MUIC and the Business Administration Division expressed their deep appreciation of all the distinguished speakers as well as to the SET- Sustainability Education Department Team for this exceptional learning opportunity, and look forward to welcoming them again in the near future.