Chulalongkorn university and SDG 13 climate action: from policies to implementation on education, research, and public outreach

Abstract

This paper explores Chulalongkorn University’s (CU) role in climate governance and sustainability, focusing on its alignment with Sustainable Development Goal 13 (SDG 13). This study employed quantitative text analysis and content analysis to examine Chulalongkorn University’s approach to climate change through five main areas: policies and management, curriculum and pedagogy, dissertations and theses, research and development, and public outreach and engagement. Data was gathered from CU’s course descriptions, dissertations, and theses from 2002 to 2023, journal articles from 2013 to 2022, the 2022–2023 Sustainability Report, and other relevant documents. These sources helped map out CU’s academic and operational commitment to addressing climate change, classifying the integration and focus of climate change topics across different academic and policy-driven initiatives. Collaborative efforts with the government, private sector, civil society, and international organizations are essential for advancing SDG 13 in Thailand. Despite challenges, the university’s multidimensional approach to climate action underscores its commitment to promoting climate resilience and sustainability in the higher education sector. Through education, research, and community engagement, Chulalongkorn University is a model for other institutions seeking to enhance their contributions to SDG 13 and sustainability efforts, driving positive change toward a more sustainable future.

Keywords

• Climate change
• climate governance
• sustainability
• Thailand
• higher education
• SDG 13: Climate action