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The International Journal of the Royal Society of Thailand

Volume XVI-2024 (Special Issue)

It is noted that, among the 17 United Nations SDGs, Goal no. 12–focused on responsible

consumption and production–has made the most progress, reflecting global support for
these principles in relation to the Sufficiency Economy philosophy. Thailand introduced the

Sufficiency Economy principle to the United Nations Assembly in 2015 and highlighted Goal
no. 17 as a means to advance the overall SDGs.

The United Nations and other groups have been monitoring the progress of SDGs
globally and providing annual reports (The United Nations, 2023; Sachs et al., 2023). Among

the 166 countries, Thailand ranks 43 with a score of 74.6 (range 38.7-86.8), making it the most
rd
advanced country among ASEAN nations.

Thailand’s progress in sustainable development stems from strong collaboration between
the government and the private sectors. Over the years, the Crown Property Bureau has launched

the Thailand Sustainable Development Foundation to oversee multiple sustainability projects.
The foundation has been organizing activities nationwide in partnership with both government and

private entities aiming to raise awareness through the publication of documents in both Thai and
English. (Thailand Sustainable Development Foundation, 2016; Dharmapiya, P. and Kerdchokchai,

P., 2019; Grossman, N., 2015; Baxter et al., 2016)
Currently, government sectors including National Economic and Social Development

Council, along with private businesses and non-governmental organizations integrate the SDGs
as a key component of their planning and operations. The Sustainable Development Solutions

Network in Thailand oversees activities and coordinates with global networks.
Thailand has set ambitious goals to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050 and net zero

emissions by 2065. Many sectors have embraced these national objectives.
However, the results of efforts towards the 17 SDGs in many countries, including Thailand,

have not met expectations. As a response, the Sustainable Development Solutions Network
in Thailand has proposed guidelines to accelerate progress by 2030 and more rigorous targets

set for 2050.
At present, sustainable development initiatives have been introduced in both government

and private sectors, but they have not been widely embraced. The public has not yet shift their
lifestyle to align with the SDGs, and more action is needed. All sectors must make greater efforts

to promote the principles of SDGs, ensuring that daily life, operational practices, and societal
structures align with the 17 goals, particularly those in harmony with the Sufficiency Economy

model introduced by His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great.

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