For this week’s Friday Future List, which coincides with World Consumer Rights Day on March 15, we highlight Panchana Vatanasathien.

Panchana, a law graduate, serves as the president of the Khao Yai Tourism Association. Her efforts have significantly contributed to promoting sustainable tourism in the Khao Yai region.

Working closely with various stakeholders, including businesses, hotels, restaurants, and farmers, she endeavours to cultivate tourism practices mindful of the environment.

Panchana created the “PenLaos” restaurant, which operates as a community-centric establishment in Khao Yai using high-quality ingredients sourced from local farmers. The restaurant operates with an understanding of the local ecosystem, striving to coexist with the surrounding forest. She ensures consumers are well-informed and empowered to make choices aligning with their values.

During the Covid-19 pandemic, she led the “Food for Fighters” programme, providing packaged meals to frontline medical personnel. This initiative, supported by fundraising activities and restaurant networks, received certification from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

Panchana is dedicated and committed to empowering the community in the long term, aiming to protect the environment while creating employment opportunities and improving the lives of local farmers.

Every year on 22 September, organisations in various countries around the world campaign for people to reduce their use of personal cars and instead use public transportation and bicycles, thereby reducing air pollution problems and improving air quality at least for one day.

Panchana played a key role last year in organising Khao Yai Car-Free Day, an event that included walking, cycling, and running within the UNESCO-listed Park, as well as the promotion of zero-waste meals and stargazing.

Looking ahead, Panchana envisions the establishment of a 3-generation home care system. Her vision is inspired by the teachings of the Dalai Lama and insights found in Hermann Hesse’s novel “Siddhartha.” By drawing from such sources of wisdom, she seeks to further her mission of promoting green practices and community well-being.

Her conviction to her causes resonates with the spirit of today and exemplifies the essence of responsible consumerism. Panchana’s forward-thinking leadership and dedication to green practices highlight her advocacy for consumer rights and for ensuring all are well-informed to make choices that benefit themselves and the environment.