Shape the Next Generation of Environmental Change-Makers

The Eco School Project

  • Overview

    At Ban Suay Long School in Nong Khai, Thailand. We are committed to creating an innovative and eco-friendly learning environment. Our goal is to empower students with green technologies and holistic education, developing eco school models that integrate practical solutions.

    This diverse curriculum equips students with essential skills for the future. By focusing on climate change adaptation, we prepare students to tackle environmental challenges with resilience and proactive strategies to mitigate climate impacts.

  • The Problem

    Many schools in rural Thailand lack the infrastructure and resources to teach sustainability and environmental conservation effectively. This gap leaves students unprepared to tackle pressing environmental challenges, including the increasing phenomenon of global boiling, where record-high temperatures lead to severe and prolonged heatwaves.

    Without practical training in climate change adaptation, students miss the opportunity to develop the skills and mindset necessary for creating a sustainable future.

  • Our Mission

    Our mission is to build a sustainable green building that provides students with hands-on experience in renewable energy, water conservation, and sustainable agriculture. This approach aims to deepen their connection with nature and inspire them to become environmental change-makers.

    Additionally, this green building will serve as a community hub for environmental activities in Ban Suay Long village, allowing students to develop their social and collaborative skills through active engagement with the villagers.

  • Your impact

    By supporting our project, you will help us build a green building that will create a lasting impact on students and the community. Your contributions will enable us to incorporate innovative green technologies such as solar panels, green roofs, sustainable construction, educational materials, and a regenerative farm that supplies food for school lunches.

    The total estimated cost for the building is 1,350,000 Thai Baht. This includes the main structure, green roof, solar energy system, furniture, and all above. Your support is essential to completing this project.

What is Green Building?

A green building is designed with sustainability in mind, incorporating eco-friendly materials and technologies to minimize its environmental impact. Key features include renewable energy sources like solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, and green roofs, which improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon footprints.

Green buildings also promote better indoor air quality and conserve resources through efficient water and waste management systems. By creating spaces that are both healthy and sustainable, green buildings aim to encourage environmental responsibility and enhance the well-being of their occupants.

Benefits of Green Building

Environmental Benefits:

  • Lower CO2 footprint compared to conventional cement buildings

  • Use of local earth reduces mining impact

  • Natural cooling reduces the need for AC and energy consumption

  • Serving as a model for other eco-school buildings

Socio-Economic Benefits:

  • Training and employing local villagers as green builders

  • Supporting the local economy and families

  • Promoting social cohesion in the village

  • Raising the profile of the village for future eco-friendly projects

Our Green Building
at Ban Suay Long School

Our architect friend from Vietnam, Trung Pham, designed the Green Building. The school will be constructed using earthen bags, adobe bricks, and recycled materials. A notable feature is the 'Green Roof' for passive cooling and 'Solar Panels' for electricity.

The building's total area is 160 m², with 100 m² indoors. It includes:

  • Main classroom: 42 m²

  • Secondary classroom: 48 m², divided into a library and play area

A large roof overhang will provide outdoor play space, with an additional patio and handwashing sink on the west side. The roof, designed by ecological permaculture expert Ben Murray, will enhance cooling and natural ventilation.

Green Roof Structure & Foundations

  • Green Roof Structure

    One crucial design consideration for a green roof is its weight, as additional layers are needed to support the soil and vegetation. It's also essential to account for the increased weight during the rainy season when the roof absorbs water. There are different types of green roofs, each with varying weights.

  • Foundations

    We've designed a wider foundation with several poles to hold the structure. A reinforced cross-shaped foundation connects the walls and poles, with additional exterior poles for roof support. The walls will bear some weight, and rebar mesh in the floor foundation ensures stability.

Cost Estimation

The estimated cost of the building is 1,350,000 Thai Baht (approximately 38,800 US Dollars). This includes the main structure, green roof, solar energy system, furniture, and educational materials.

Breakdown of Costs:

  • Phase 1: Foundations & Poles

    • Labour: 75,000 THB

    • Materials: 140,000 THB

  • Phase 2: Walls, Windows & Doors

    • Labour: 62,000 THB

    • Materials: 34,000 THB

  • Phase 3: Roof Structure & Green Roof

    • Labour: 135,000 THB

    • Materials: 412,200 THB

  • Phase 4: Solar Panels & Installation

    • Materials: 220,000 THB

    • Labour: 10,000 THB

  • Phase 5: Finishing & Interior Decorating

    • Materials: 94,000 THB

    • Labour: 43,000 THB

  • Other Costs:

    • Design, Project Management, Tools, and Unforeseen Costs: 120,000 THB

If you have any questions or would like a detailed budget, please contact us. Any surplus funds will be used for landscaping, playground development, and related school projects.

Our Progress
Until Now

We are currently building the earthen structure for our green building project, supported by dedicated volunteers who contribute their time and skills. Additionally, we hire local villagers, providing them with income and supporting the local economy through this initiative. These collaborative efforts not only advance our project but also create meaningful experiences for everyone involved.

Make a Donation

Your donation will help us build an eco-friendly school that empowers students with hands-on experiences in green technologies and environmental education. Additionally, your contribution will support local employment within the community. 

Bank : Kasikorn
Branch : Udonthani
Name : Nature’s way foundation
Account Number : 189-345310-1