As a leading force in Asean’s green transition, UOB Thailand has embedded sustainability into both its business and community agenda, aligned with its goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. Its efforts earned recognition from the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration as a waste management leader — a milestone that set the stage for an even greater ambition: empowering young Thais to drive change.
That belief inspired “Wonder Lab: Youth For A Greener Tomorrow”, a new platform inviting youth to turn ideas into projects that directly address environmental problems in their communities. Open to participants aged 15-25 nationwide, the inaugural year drew 453 applicants across 102 teams. Ten finalists were selected to develop their projects within one month before presenting their results at a showcase on Sept 13.
“Young people have the drive and imagination to shape their own future — what they need is space, resources and encouragement,” said Dhornratana Olanhankij, country function head of brand, media and communications at UOB Thailand. “Wonder Lab was designed not as a contest of ideas alone, but as a platform where participants are supported by mentors and empowered to act.”
The finalists’ projects demonstrated that environmental responsibility can be embedded into everyday life. They include:
Chan Koet Chak Ko Phai, Chan Loei Rak Lok developed a real-time app that helped schools cut food waste by 70% in one month.
6P boosted waste separation in schools by more than 300%.
Jungle Natural Team turned discarded pineapple leaves into biodegradable cat litter.
Nakhon Sawan Rak Sing Waet Lom wove recycled plastic into textiles and bags, blending innovation with local craft.
GreenCycle Crew repurposed plastic scraps into 3D printing filament.
The debut campaign has given digital natives future-ready skills, fostering creativity, critical thinking and observation. Participants also gained valuable lessons in teamwork, planning, systems thinking and public speaking — helping close gaps in crucial soft skills such as communication, adaptability, emotional intelligence and collaboration.
Other projects highlighted the breadth of young innovators’ interests, from tackling food waste to reimagining agricultural by-products. Together, the 10 projects illustrated how technology, education and cultural identity can advance sustainability.
Looking ahead, UOB plans to connect the programme with private-sector partners, civic groups and communities to scale up prototypes into wider social and environmental impact.
“UOB Wonder Lab is not just a community project,” Dhornratana said. “It is about walking alongside youth to co-create a sustainable future.”