The World University Association of Community Development (WUACD) held its Annual Review and Executive Board Meeting at Thammasat University, Bangkok, Thailand. Over the course of three days, multiple attendees, including representatives from partner universities, project coordinators, and academic leaders, not only evaluated recent work programs and discussed future plans, but also participated in community outreach activities that align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), embodying the essence of WUACD itself as an association focusing on community development worldwide.

On Friday, November 14th, 2025, halfway through the three-day agenda, the attendees visited Bangkok Rooftop Farming, a social enterprise that helps manage food waste issues in Bangkok and other urban areas. Established in 2020, the initiative utilizes unused spaces, often building rooftops, to create productive urban farms. This approach not only increases green spaces within the city but also transforms food waste into nutrient-rich soil used to grow their own organic produce, which they sell to establish small-scale agricultural markets and reduce transportation costs.

During the visit, the attendees were able to look into how the enterprise operated. There, they learned the know-how of turning abundant food waste into something more useful, which supports the goal of sustainable urban farming. To further their knowledge, a special lecture on “Urban Food System and Rooftop Farming Model for Food Security” was held. Paired with a workshop on Circular Urban Farming, this hands-on experience provided a detailed insight into how these methods contribute to long-term food security.

The initiatives carried out by Bangkok Rooftop Farming have continued to play a key role in advancing multiple Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By introducing practical solutions to the food waste problem and educating the public on zero-carbon emission food systems, the enterprise’s efforts have helped progress the SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities objective, which aims to make urban areas and cities more sustainable and green. Growing produce through eco-friendly means and encouraging large companies to adopt these practices and do the same has also reflected the goals of SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production. Furthermore, the collaboration between the attendees and representatives from Bangkok Rooftop Farming aligns with SDG 17: Partnership for the Goals, showcasing how collective efforts remain important in achieving global sustainability targets.

As cities continue to grow, so does the waste created within them. Large buildings such as malls, hotels, and other corporations produce a significant amount of food waste on a daily basis, calling for constant, environment-friendly, and innovative solutions. The visit to Bangkok Rooftop Farming has shown how a community-driven initiative can build meaningful change. Joining in the spirit of shared learning and collective action, the experience upheld WUACD’s commitment to address global challenges through education, collaboration, and community empowerment, continuing to stride towards a better future for all.