From August 15 to 23, 2026, we participated in the Thailand National Science and Technology Fair 2026 (NST Fair 2026), Thailand’s largest science and technology exhibition, organized by the National Science Museum (NSM) and under the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI).
At our booth, we introduced the activities of our JSPS Bangkok Office and featured poster presentations by Japanese universities with liaison in Thailand. We also hosted an interactive workshop, “Science Connecting Me and the Future,” planned and presented by Professor Yutaka Takeuchi, Deputy Project Leader of the Kanazawa University COI-NEXT “Co-creation Platform for Circular Economical System Supported by Completely Recyclable Plant-derived Polysaccharide Plastics.”
One of the workshop’s themes was sustainable, plant-based bioplastics being developed by Kanazawa University. The workshop introduced research on creating new materials from unused biomass, such as agricultural waste. These materials can be recycled as resources after use or biodegrade in marine environments. Through this research, participants explored a new approach to manufacturing based on the concept of “making, using, and circulating.”
The workshop also provided an opportunity for participants to see, touch, and experience a vision of a future society connected by science, with nature positivity at its core. Through these experiences, we aimed to encourage the younger generation to view social challenges such as environmental conservation and resource circulation as issues that concern them personally, and to inspire each individual to think about what kind of society they would like to create for the future.
Throughout the event, many students visited our booth. They observed the internal structures of fish using microscopes, took part in stamp quizzes designed to deepen their understanding of marine life, and learned about and experienced Mizu-Hiki, a traditional craft from Kanazawa. With clear and engaging explanations from Professor Takeuchi and his team members, the children had a valuable opportunity to deepen their interest in science while learning in a fun and interactive way.
