Suntory PepsiCo Beverage (Thailand) Co., Ltd., a manufacturer and distributor of beverages under the Suntory and PepsiCo brands in Thailand, along with Suntory Beverage & Food (Thailand) Co., Ltd., the leader of health enrichment products in Thailand and Indochina, organized an inspiring field trip to Japan as part of the “One Suntory Mizuiku Program 2024”. From October 28 to 31, student leaders and teachers from two winning schools of the Mizuiku Water Model School contest — Petch Pittayakom School in Chonburi and Chumchon Borisat Namtan Tawanaok School in Rayong — to explore the Mizuiku program at its origin.

During the study tour in Japan, representatives from both winning schools shared their insights and showcased their water conservation projects — including school initiatives and community outreach efforts — to executives from Suntory’s Sustainability Division at the Suntory Tamachi Office in Tokyo. They also took part in the “Outdoor School of Forest and Water”, a nature-based educational program in forest land around Minami Alps, a UNESCO Eco Park since 2014. Here, they learned about the water cycle, local plant species, and forest wildlife. At the Suntory Hakushu Water Plant, located in a lush forest, the students observed eco-friendly manufacturing processes for bottled natural mineral water sourced from the Minami Alps, gaining valuable knowledge on efficient water resource management. The student leaders and teachers also enriched their experience by visiting Suntory Hall and popular Tokyo landmarks such as Asakusa Temple and Tokyo Skytree.

Ms. Wipawan Tasanapreechachai - Head of Corporate Affairs, Suntory PepsiCo Beverage (Thailand) Co., Ltd., shared the background and purpose of the trip, stating, "We are delighted to bring over 30 Thai students and teachers, winners of the 'Mizuiku Water Model School' contest, who have integrated water resources conservation in their schools across 4 key aspects: policy, stakeholder participation, infrastructure development, and community engagement. This tour in Japan offers students with a unique opportunity to experience the Mizuiku program at its origin, showcasing a sustainable model of water and environmental management. Through hands-on workshops and activities focused on the water cycle and conservation awareness, participants gained a Japanese perspective on sustainability. This experience will empower student leaders of their schools' Mizuiku Club to further advance water conservation projects and extend these efforts to their communities. The field trip reflects our corporate value of Growing for Good, fostering youth development to become environmentally and socially responsible adults ".

Ms. Mathuvalee Stithyudhakarn, Director - Regulatory Affairs and Corporate Affairs, Suntory Beverage & Food (Thailand) Co., Ltd., highlighted the activities and benefits of the field trip: "The One Suntory team creates lasting impressions through engaging, hands-on experiences that educate youth and teachers about water and natural resource conservation. The 'Outdoor School of Forest and Water', similar to Thailand's 'Nature Classroom', provide students with a deeper understanding of how forests support soil, water, and biodiversity. Participants experienced unique Japanese flora and fauna not found in Thailand. This tour is a meaningful opportunity for Thai youth to broaden their perspectives, find inspiration, and bring back knowledge to benefit their communities while gaining insights into Japan's environmental practices, art, and culture".

Ms. Fongaew Phasurapinyo, student leader of the program from Petch Pittayakom School in Chonburi, shared, "I am very grateful for the chance to learn about water conservation here in Japan. The trip has shown me and my friends that we can incorporate water-saving practices into our daily lives. It made me realize that there are many ways we can each contribute to conserving water and nature, starting with ourselves. I am committed to sharing this knowledge with my school, family, and community to inspire greater awareness and action for water and environmental protection".

Ms. Chanthima Attachaiya, the teacher in charge of the program from Chumchon Borisat Namtan Tawanaok School in Rayong Province, reflected on the Japan field trip: "Observing the factory's efficient, eco-friendly water management—from upstream to downstream—alongside its commitment to natural resources and the local environment, has provided valuable insights. We aim to improve our school's water management system and engage both students and community members through accessible, enjoyable learning activities that demonstrate water's importance".

Mr. Alexander Simon Rendell, Chief Executive Officer, Environmental Education Centre (EEC), a partner organization in the One Suntory Mizuiku program, shared, "Taking students to Japan for this field trip marks a significant step in reinforcing the concept of ‘No Water No Life’ that we instill in youth through hands-on, enjoyable learning experiences. This trip has shown me Suntory's approach to water conservation in Japan. This experience will serve as a vital foundation for building a strong, sustainable network of young advocates for water conservation. It also inspires communities to become more aware and collaborate in sustainable water resources management".

The “One Suntory Mizuiku Program 2024” project concluded with great success, marking the 20^th anniversary of Japan's Mizuiku program. This achievement underscores the unwavering commitment of Suntory PepsiCo (Thailand) Co., Ltd. and Suntory Beverage & Food (Thailand) Co., Ltd. to drive positive, sustainable impact on society and the environment. It also reinforces both companies' core values of “Growing for Good” and “Giving Back to Society”, reflecting our dedication to preserving this precious natural resource for future generations.

To learn more about the One Suntory Mizuiku Program, please visit the Facebook page: the One Suntory Mizuiku Program Thailand, https://www.facebook.com/OneSuntoryMizuikuProgram.