“Our River, Our Life”, A sustainability project by Dhurakij Pundit University
Dhurakij Pundit University has launched the Our River, Our Life project with the mission to restore the Chao Phraya River by combining education and action—empowering the next generation to reduce waste, combat plastic pollution, and drive sustainable change for cleaner rivers and a healthier environment.
This project is a collaboration between Dhurakij Pundit University and everwave GmBH, a German for purpose company operating on the Phasi Charoen canal flowing into the Chao Phraya river since May of 2023. Everwave uses high-tech innovations like drone technology to detect waste on waterways, waste collection barriers and boats that extract waste from the water and then process it either through recycling or waste-to-energy technologies. This collaboration reflects the importance of partnerships between private sectors, and academic institutions in tackling river pollution through education empowering the next generation.
Research indicates that over 4,000 tons of waste from the Chao Phraya River flow into the Gulf of Thailand annually (Pajai). Many canals feed into the Chao Phraya, and much of the waste that ends up in the river comes from these canals.
The initial phase of the ‘Our River, Our Life’ project focuses on fundraising and building partnerships. Dhurakij Pundit University is working closely with businesses, NGOs, and organizations to raise funds for educational initiatives and to clean up the Chao Phraya river.
Ms. Nitika Bhardwaj, Dean of International College and project manager emphasized that Thailand’s plastic waste crisis is not solely a community issue but also stems from business activities and imported waste. Although the Thai government banned plastic waste imports starting January 1, 2025, long-term solutions rely on educating younger generations to change their mindset and behavior towards consumption and waste; and to take real action to fix the damage caused.
“This project is not just about cleaning the river—it’s about changing mindsets,” Aj. Nitika stated. “By involving students in real-world challenges, we equip them with the knowledge and skills to drive sustainable change.”
From February to April 2025, Team Hydrix consisting of DPU’s students and Team Namjai from the Wellington College International School Bangkok will receive training on waste reduction, plastic pollution and its impact on our health and the circular economy. Post that, they will begin implementing community outreach programs, including workshops in schools to educate young learners about plastic waste and sustainable solutions.
The project is looking to build a robust network of supporters who are committed to improving the environmental health of the Chao Phraya River. The success of this initiative will not only help restore one of Thailand’s most vital natural resources but also serve as a model for future conservation projects worldwide.
We invite businesses, organizations, and individuals to support us in this mission by contributing to our fundraising campaign. For more information on how to contribute or get involved, please contact us at ic.dpu@dpu.ac.th. Every contribution, large or small, brings us closer to a cleaner, healthier river.
We welcome your participation in this critical initiative to build a cleaner, greener future for the Chao Phraya River.
