Siam University , Thailand

Tiny Heroes, Global Saviors

The "Tiny Heroes, Global Saviors" project was initiated under Siam University's "Sustainable University, Sustainable District" policy. Using the “living learning lab” model emphasising real-life experience, Nursing students surveyed Klong Ladphachi and found that the community were facing issues concerning health mainly due to poor waste management. An experiment to use black soldier fly larvae, the “tiny heroes”, to decompose organic waste was then initiated with collaboration from the Government Savings Bank. Pet food products from the larvae, which was laboratory tested for safety, were developed along with assistance in package design and online sales training.

The community now generates income from these products, creating a cyclical system that harmoniously supports their way of life while improving hygiene and sustainable waste management. With recognition to the benefit of the project, Phasi Charoen District Office has selected Klong Ladphachi as a learning centre and 

What the Judges Thought

Great initiative, quantifiable and nicely written. Fantastic innovative circular economy approach involving a local community, with clear student and university engagement. Outputs and outcomes clearly quantified, with the initiative being innovative, well-executed and scalable. Bank funded but with funding from the University also.

The project has a lot of potential to grow and to be replicated. The clear quantification of the outcomes distinguish this project from others.

What it Means to Win

"Sustainability is something to live and starts with learning from real problems of people and society. Winning this Award assures that our work for community matters and we can become stronger change agent in designing a better tomorrow for oneself and society."

Professor Dr. Chanita Rukspollmuang, Vice President

Top 3 Learnings

1. We learned that collaboration amplifies our impact for sustainability, and engaging communities fosters shared ownership and success.
2. We discovered that innovative organic waste management not only benefits environmentally but also open opportunities for economic growth.
3. Our experience showed that integrating education with real-life experiences and practical application is crucial for sustainable change.