Bangkok, Thailand (25 April 2024) – As global attention turns towards sustainable agricultural practices, the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) has organised the Policy Forum titled “Strengthening Thailand’s Low-Emission Rice Market: Learnings from the Thai Rice NAMA Project” at Asawin Grand Convention Hotel in Bangkok. The policy forum aims to address and deliberate on the critical developments and challenges in the transition towards low-emission rice production in Thailand, and represents a pivotal moment for stakeholders invested in sustainable agriculture and climate mitigation strategies for a transformational change in the Thai rice sector.

This essential gathering brought together over 80 key stakeholders, including policymakers, scientists, and representatives from various sectors such as the Rice Department, Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, The Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Kasetsart University and representatives from the private sector. 

Dr. Bjoern Ole Sander, IRRI Representative to Thailand, stated, “Agriculture ranks as Thailand’s second highest source of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, following the energy sector. Notably, rice cultivation accounts for approximately 55% of the agricultural emissions, predominantly methane, making it a crucial target for low-emissions development. Launched in August 2018, the Thai Rice NAMA Project is spearheading the transition to low-emission rice production in Thailand, demonstrating that large-scale application of GHG-reducing technologies is possible. This initiative deploys a tri-fold strategy encompassing low-emission rice production technologies, mitigation technology services, and the development of supportive policies and measures.”

“Building on the successes of the Thai Rice NAMA project, the upcoming project ‘Thai Rice: Strengthening Climate-Smart Rice Farming’ funded by the Green Climate Fund (GCF) is slated to begin in 2024. Advancing the objectives of its predecessor, the ‘Thai Rice GCF’ project aims to drive transformative change within the Thai rice sector with a dual purpose adaptation-mitigation strategy. This project focuses on empowering smallholder farmers, who are particularly vulnerable to climate change, by enhancing their decision-making capabilities and providing access to climate-smart agricultural technologies. Expected outcomes include a substantial reduction in methane emissions and water consumption in rice farming, higher profits for Thai rice farmers and increasing climate resilience,” Dr. Sander added. 

Dr. Chitnucha Buddhaboon, Deputy Director of The Rice Department, Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives expressed, “This event is an important milestone for the impactful collaboration between the Department of Rice, Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), GIZ and partners from various ministerial agencies, universities, and the private sector. Our goal is to enhance Thailand’s rice production efficiency and transition towards low-emission rice cultivation by utilising an array of climate-friendly rice production technologies. By doing so, this gathering is an important opportunity to share knowledge, exchange ideas, and offer suggestions, with a particular focus on the systematic development of a Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) system.” 

“The MRV system is envisioned to provide better insights in rice production practices, facilitate linkages with the market, and add value to rice production through greenhouse gas savings. Significantly, today’s forum featured a series of seminars on the MRV system in the context of rice production, supporting Thailand’s ambition to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions,” Dr. Buddhaboon emphasised.

The Thai Rice NAMA project can be regarded as a showcase initiative for transforming rice production systems in Thailand. Insights and lessons from the project are expected to significantly inform and enhance the forthcoming Thai Rice GCF project. The MRV system and advanced low-emission rice farming technologies demonstrate the project’s commitment to sustainable agricultural progress and climate-smart practices for transforming Thailand’s rice sector.

W BANGKOK, BILL BENSLEY AND FELLOW ARTISTS, STAGE “CALL OF THE CARDAMOMS” WILDLIFE CONSERVATION EVENT WITH A 3-DAY CHARITY ACTIVATION 2 MAY TO 4 MAY
AND MONTH-LONG ART EXHIBITION FROM 6 MAY TO 31 MAY

Local residents and visitors can embark on a cultural and culinary journey in collaboration with Shinta Mani Hotels and the Shinta Mani Foundation to raise awareness and funds for wildlife conservation.

Bangkok – April 2024 – W Bangkok is inviting guests and visitors to embark on a captivating culinary and cultural journey to the Cardamom Mountains Rainforests this May. In collaboration with Shinta Mani Hotels Cambodia and the Shinta Mani Foundation, the “Call of the Cardamoms” event will present three days of immersive activities followed by a month-long art exhibition to raise funds and awareness for the conservation of the Cardamom Rainforests, which is the last green lung of South East Asia, vital for the environmental and cultural health of Thailand, Cambodia, and the region.

The art exhibition features an array of diverse artists, each bringing their unique perspectives and mediums to the showcase.

Bill Bensley is an architect, interior designer, and landscape architect and has designed over 200 hotels; many of which have won multiple awards. He is also a prolific Outsider Artist. Everything he does has a purpose. Since 2007 Bill has been supporting the Cambodian people through the Shinta Mani Foundation and helping to protect the Cambodian rainforest. All proceeds from this exhibition will be used to further these important causes. BENSLEY has collaborated with the Luxury American furniture Manufacturer Baker-McGuire to create a new furniture line called WILD based upon selected animals of the Cardamom Forest and will debut 12 selected pieces from this new WILD collection at the event. Bill is also collaborating with the Thai Silk specialist Jim Thompson on a new range of interior fabrics suitable for curtains, upholstery, and throws. A selected pattern from this new and vibrant collection will also be on display, printed, and produced by Jim Thompson. Bill will also have several of his original artworks on display. Kate Spencer, originating from Yorkshire but now residing in St. Kitts, presents a collection of oil paintings and charcoal drawings inspired by the vibrant colors and soft shapes of her Caribbean surroundings. Wasinburee Supanichvoraparch, a Thai artist known for his ceramics, challenges perceptions with his thought-provoking works that blend reality and surrealism with subtle humor and irony. Underwood Factory Phuket, led by John Underwood, showcases furniture and homeware pieces crafted from salvaged materials, reflecting a commitment to eco-conscious design. Trey Hurst is a visual artist and designer, born and raised in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and currently living in Bangkok. His abstract work is an exercise in pattern-building, using simple and repetitive brushwork. Hurst’s portfolio consists mostly of abstract ink and watercolor drawings on handmade Saa paper, and bold paintings on raw canvas. He draws inspiration from the constant making and remaking of patterns in our built environment, the lines and grids of urban infrastructure, and the ways in which our man-made structures interact with nature. Ploenchan Vinyaratn, known as Khun Mook, combines traditional weaving techniques with contemporary designs, creating tactile textile art that evokes a range of emotions. Aubrey Kurlansky, artist and designer, loves to paint, design, photograph, and make beautiful images. He especially loves to make silk scarves. For this exhibition he pays homage to the most trafficked animal – the Pangolin as well as celebrates other creatures found in the Cardamom forest like the Guar, the Sun Bear, and the Clouded Leopard. Palat Studio & P45 Space presents furniture inspired by Cardamom animals, blending European grandeur with Asian sensibilities in elegant and intricate designs. Eric Raisina, a fashion designer based in Siem Reap, infuses traditional Malagasy textiles with contemporary fashion trends, creating vibrant and luxurious haute couture pieces. Lastly, Bruce Pashak, a Canadian artist, invites viewers into a world of abstract anti-narratives, using imagery, text, and technology to create thought-provoking art forms that challenge conventional perceptions. Together, these artists offer a rich tapestry of creativity, innovation, and cultural exploration at the exhibition.

Staged on 2, 3, and 4 May, at The House on Sathorn, W Bangkok’s elegantly reimagined 135-year-old dining and social venue, this activation will allow eco-conscious explorers to experience a sensational collaborative dinner, a responsible fashion show, an art exhibition, and an exclusive Marriott Bonvoy Moments™ experience with Bill Bensley, the pioneering architect, interior and landscape designer and passionate environmentalist. The “Call for the Cardamoms” art showcase will be open from 6th May until the end of the month, welcoming visitors to experience its wonders.

On Thursday 2nd May, lovers of fine gastronomy can savor a one-of-a-kind “Vernissage and Charity Dinner” at The Conservatory, the elegant, art-inspired private dining room at The House on Sathorn. In an exquisite collaboration, Chef Joe, Weeraket Nilayon, the executive chef at Paii, joins hands with Cambodian culinary maestro Chanrith Van, Executive Chef of Shinta Mani Angkor and Bensley Collection Pool Villas. Together, they will organize a collaborative, ten-course plant-based culinary adventure, promising a gastronomic journey like no other. With their combined expertise and innovative flair, guests can anticipate an unforgettable dining experience that harmonizes the flavors of Cambodia and Thailand with contemporary culinary techniques, all set against the backdrop of artistic excellence at the exhibition.

Crafted by the talented Khmer Chef Chanrith, this epicurean odyssey will showcase authentic local and seasonal ingredients such as Kampot pepper, Bantey Srie purple eggplant, betel leaves, and fresh coconuts, to craft a mesmerizing menu that transports diners’ senses to the farms, fields and forests of Cambodia.

On Friday 3rd May, guests can come together for the official launch of this charitable gala. As visitors mix and mingle with cool drinks and creative canapés at the House on Sathorn, the stylish Thai seafood restaurant, they will be kept fully entertained by a marching band in front of the hotel. Imagined by Bill Bensley, founder of BENSLEY and co-owner of Shinta Mani Hotels Cambodia, a huge elephant puppet called “Hope” will then introduce art lovers to an inspiring exhibition by local artists and artisans, and a fashion catwalk will showcase socially responsible designs.

Finally, on Saturday 4th May, aspiring artists are invited to a highly exclusive Marriott Bonvoy Moments experience – a painting class personally hosted by Bill Bensley! Limited to only ten people, this money-can’t-buy activity is only available for Marriott Bonvoy members who bid successfully. Additionally, classes will be given by Trey Hurst, Aubrey Kurlansky, Kate Spencer, and Khun Ploenchan.

All of the proceeds generated by “Call of the Cardamoms” will directly support the preservation, protection, and conservation of the Cardamom Rainforests, which is home to diverse native species such as langurs, slow lorises, mongooses, and gibbons. Shinta Mani Foundation and the Wildlife Alliance work tirelessly to safeguard this pristine ecosystem’s rich flora and fauna, which is imperiled by a wide range of threats including illegal logging, poaching, and climate change.

This exhibition not only celebrates artistic expression but also underscores the urgent need to protect the Cardamom Forests, an ecological cornerstone vital for the sustainability and natural heritage of both Thailand and Cambodia

Marriott Bonvoy members can now bid for the chance to participate in the art class with Bill Bensley. Simply visit Marriott Bonvoy Moments for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!

To learn more about W Bangkok, please visit www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/bkkwb-w-bangkok/overview.