Climate change is a pressing global challenge that demands urgent attention in the 21st century. Human activities have contributed significantly
to this crisis, and the escalating impact of natural cycles like El Niño and La Niña has intensified sustainability concerns, prompting organisations worldwide to prioritise the fight against climate change as a key mission.
Bangkok Expressway and Metro Public Company Limited (BEM) have remained steadfast in their focus on environmental issues and are dedicated to operating an eco-friendly mass transit business. Their goal is to reduce carbon dioxide emissions and promote the use of sustainable mass transit systems based on clean energy sources.
Dr. Sombat Kitjalaksana, BEM’s Managing Director, stated, “The company is committed to conducting business in accordance with the principles of sustainability, encompassing good corporate governance, effective risk management, and social and environmental responsibility. As part of our environmental efforts, BEM aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050 by reducing greenhouse gas emissions.”
Producing clean energy to support MRTA’s goals
In line with their commitment to boosting clean energy consumption in Thailand, BEM has partnered with CKPower Public Company Limited to establish a solar power generation project. This project involves the installation of solar rooftops and solar farms in the areas of the Metropolitan Rapid Transit (MRT) Chaleom Ratchamongkon Line (Blue Line) Depot and MRT Chalong Ratchadham Line (Purple Line) Depot, covering an impressive 106,000 square metres with a total production capacity of 13.32 megawatts. Completion of the installations is expected by the end of 2023, with electricity delivery commencing around the third quarter of 2024 and full deliveries completed by the beginning of 2025.
Dr. Sombat added, “This project aligns with BEM’s commitment to support the ‘Mission 2023’ goals set forth by the Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA), in collaboration with various government and private sectors, to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 1,000,000 tones of carbon dioxide (CO2) and achieve carbon neutrality. Transitioning from fossil fuels to clean solar power will not only lead to cost savings in electricity usage but also reduce greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 300,000 tons of CO2 throughout the project’s duration. We place great trust in the expertise of CKPower, who will handle the project’s design, technical installation, and construction, while also ensuring the readiness and maintenance of electricity distribution systems to bolster BEM’s capabilities.”
Continuously maintaining ESG100 standard
Furthermore, BEM has been recognised as one of the ESG100 Securities companies, lauded for their outstanding Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) performance in the transportation and logistics business groups. This recognition, evaluated by Thaipat Institute from 888 listed securities, underscores the organisation’s dedication to creating value for society and the environment while conducting business sustainably.
