UOB Thailand hosted its Sustainability Compass Forum to guide small and medium-sized businesses on how to shift to low-carbon practices and prepare for future climate policies.
The event brought together experts, industry leaders, and entrepreneurs to discuss emission tracking, funding options, and updates on environmental laws. The forum is part of UOB’s broader plan to help businesses become more resilient and sustainable.
Panittra Vejjajiva, Head of Financial Institutions and ESG Solutions at UOB Thailand, said more than 1,600 companies have already joined the UOB Sustainability Compass. She added that the tool offers support and access to finance for firms looking to go green and remain competitive.
Climate Rules Are Getting Stricter
Climate regulations are evolving worldwide. Thailand is working on a Climate Change Act and developing a Thailand Taxonomy to define what counts as sustainable activity.
Teeradetch Tungsubutra, from the Climate Finance Network Thailand, said businesses that adjust now will likely gain a long-term advantage.
Publicly listed firms in Thailand will soon have to follow new global reporting standards. These rules will require them to report emissions from direct operations, energy use, and the broader supply chain. Authorities plan to give companies five years to gather supply chain data before full compliance is enforced.
SMEs Key to Big Companies’ Emission Goals
Chayathorn Chanruangvanich, a partner at PwC Thailand, said that in some industries, over 99% of a large company’s emissions come from its supply chain. He urged SMEs to start tracking their emissions now to avoid being left out of future contracts.
SMEs were advised to begin data collection, create a baseline, and design action plans that align with upcoming legal changes.
Business Leaders Share Real-World Experience
UOB Thailand’s Sustainability Compass Forum brings together experts and business leaders to guide SMEs on cutting emissions and embracing greener practices.
Three Thai entrepreneurs joined a panel to explain how they are making their operations more sustainable.
Panu Petra of Petra Group spoke about their green buildings and solar panel setups. He said the UOB Compass helped them stay focused.
Soros Yodmongkol, CEO of Unique Plastic Industry, stressed the need for company-wide teamwork through a sustainability committee.
Arthit Vechakij, Chairman of Neo Clean Energy, said solar power investments make business sense. He highlighted tax perks and legal support that make now a smart time to invest.
Financing Green Growth
UOB offers loans under its Smart City Sustainable Financing Framework for clean energy, efficient systems, waste management, and electric vehicles.
Panittra said the bank is not just offering funds, but also building networks to link SMEs with green technology providers.
UOB plans to expand its sustainability programme later in 2025, aiming to connect more businesses across sectors.
