Policy

The University of Phayao is situated in a mountainous terrain spanning over 5,500 rai of lush forest. The university prioritizes landscape design that integrates harmoniously with nature while minimizing ecological footprints. It develops energy-efficient buildings and implements Universal Design to ensure equitable access for all individuals.

1. Reserve at least 50% of total campus land as natural forest conservation areas and open green spaces.
2. Require all new buildings to meet green building standards for energy efficiency and environmental compatibility.
3. Construct universal design infrastructure, including wheelchair ramps and covered walkways, to connect academic facilities.

The university aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions across all campus activities and accelerate the transition toward a Net Zero Campus by adopting renewable energy and enhancing efficiency.

1. Expand solar rooftop installations across academic buildings, the University of Phayao Medical Center, and student dormitories.
2. Transition campus roadway lighting and indoor illumination to 100% energy-efficient LED systems.
3. Utilize the 5,000-rai campus forest as a primary natural carbon sink for carbon sequestration.
4. Target a 1.5% annual reduction in average electricity consumption per capita.

The University of Phayao manages its water resources independently through sustainable conservation practices. The university ensures the production of high-quality tap water and promotes wastewater recycling to prevent pollution and reduce resource depletion.

1. Utilize and preserve water from Huai Mae Ka Reservoir and Huai Kiang Reservoir to ensure a reliable supply of clean water for the campus.
2. Operate centralized wastewater treatment plants and reuse recycled water for irrigation in forest conservation areas and agricultural projects.
3. Conduct regular monthly water quality audits to ensure safe drinking water is provided across all sectors of the university.

The university implements the 3Rs principles (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) to advance its transition toward a Zero Waste Campus. It also enforces strict waste management and disposal systems for chemical and biological hazards generated from laboratories and healthcare facilities.

1. Enforce waste segregation at source and convert organic food waste into fertilizer for campus landscaping and vegetation.
2. Manage chemical and biological laboratory waste in accordance with ESPReL safety standards to prevent environmental contamination.
3. Establish hazardous waste collection points and promote proper recycling and disposal of electronic waste.

The university prioritizes safety due to the steep mountainous terrain of its campus and is committed to reducing carbon emissions and PM2.5 pollutants through sustainable transportation initiatives. Green public transit systems, including EV Bus services, are promoted as the primary mode of campus transportation while private vehicle use is carefully regulated.

1. Prohibit motorcycles and electric bicycles in academic zones and steep-slope areas to reduce the risk of traffic accidents.
2. Permit personal vehicles to operate only on designated campus routes and within established speed limits.
3. Provide free EV Bus services and electric shuttle trams under the UP Transit system as the primary transportation options for students, staff, and visitors.

The university is committed to reducing single-use plastics and creating a paperless environment through the digitalization of administrative processes and the promotion of sustainable consumption practices. These efforts contribute to resource conservation and the reduction of environmental impacts across campus.

1. Ban single-use foam containers and thin plastic bags across all campus cafeterias, food outlets, and retail shops.
2. Adopt the UP DMS electronic document system to digitize administrative workflows and reduce paper consumption throughout the university.
3. Encourage vendors to offer incentives and discounts to students and staff who bring reusable cups, bottles, and meal containers.

The university fosters an inclusive educational environment that respects diversity and promotes equal opportunities for all individuals, regardless of gender identity, race, ethnicity, or physical ability. It is committed to creating a campus community where everyone can participate, learn, and thrive without discrimination.

1. Enforce non-discrimination policies in student admissions, staff recruitment, employment practices, and career advancement opportunities.
2. Provide gender-neutral restrooms and inclusive facilities across major academic and public buildings on campus.
3. Offer financial assistance, accessibility services, and academic support programs for students with disabilities and those from underprivileged backgrounds.

The university is committed to preserving native forest ecosystems and protecting biodiversity within its campus. Through conservation initiatives, biological research, and habitat management programs, the university seeks to balance sustainable development with the protection of local flora and fauna.

1. Participate in the Plant Genetic Conservation Project under the Royal Initiative of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn (RSPG-UP) to document, conserve, and monitor local plant species.
2. Prohibit fishing, hunting, and environmental encroachment within university forest conservation areas.
3. Maintain check dams and watershed conservation measures to preserve soil moisture, support ecosystem functions, and strengthen biodiversity networks in native forest habitats.

The university integrates sustainability principles into teaching, research, and academic services to support sustainable community development in Phayao Province and the upper northern region of Thailand. Through interdisciplinary collaboration and community engagement, the university promotes knowledge and innovation that contribute to long-term environmental, social, and economic well-being.

1. Implement the 1 Faculty 1 SDG initiative to encourage all academic departments to develop research projects and community service activities that contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
2. Integrate sustainability concepts and SDG-related content into General Education courses and undergraduate academic programs.
3. Collaborate with provincial agencies, local communities, and partner organizations to address seasonal haze pollution and promote sustainable organic agriculture practices.

The university is committed to protecting the respiratory health and overall well-being of students, staff, and visitors by maintaining a clean-air, smoke-free, and dust-free environment across campus. The policy emphasizes the prevention of smoking and vaping, continuous monitoring of air quality, and the development of dust-free rooms and safe indoor spaces during periods of haze, air pollution, and high PM2.5 levels.

1. Declare all university zones, academic buildings, and shared public spaces as smoke-free and vape-free areas, with a strict prohibition on smoking and vaping.
2. Monitor PM2.5 and air quality levels daily, especially during haze and dry seasons, and communicate air quality alerts to the university community in a timely manner.
3. Establish dust-free rooms in libraries, study areas, health centers, and other key learning spaces by installing air purifiers, high-efficiency filtration systems, and ensuring proper ventilation control.
4. Designate indoor safe areas for students and staff during periods of severe air pollution, with priority access for vulnerable groups such as children, pregnant women, older adults, and individuals with respiratory conditions.
5. Conduct regular inspection and maintenance of air-conditioning, ventilation, and filtration systems to ensure effective dust control and indoor air quality.
6. Prohibit agricultural burning and any activities that generate excessive dust or smoke within campus boundaries, while collaborating with local districts and surrounding communities to prevent forest fires and seasonal haze pollution.
7. Promote awareness campaigns on respiratory health, self-protection measures, and the use of dust-free facilities during periods of poor air quality.