Bangkok 1899 strives to be a living model of sustainability, leading by example. Through our quiet and thoughtful environment, we provide an alternative experience to the pervasive wastefulness of late-stage capitalism. In order to survive the ever-mounting threat of climate change, we plan to provide education and tools for the 21st century. Activities, workshops and discussions can activate the important social innovation desperately needed in an increasingly, uncertain world.
Our heritage home has been slowly converted to be a model of sustainability, employing various environmental technologies into our hub’s ecosystem. For example, New Delhi-based architect Monish Siripurapu is donating a small version of his biomimicry-based air-cooling system that was developed through a UN Environment startup grant. Our property configurations advocating the model of sustainability include the following:
- Recycling and composting to divert from landfill
- Incorporating sustainable technologies into the property's overall system
- Removed excess concrete and replaced with green space
- Adding insulation to cool the house 7-10 Celsius
- Added ceiling fans to reduce air conditioning usage
- Updating electrical system to reduce energy consumption (LED lighting, energy efficient appliances, Mediterranean cooling system)
- Adding climate innovation projects: i.e. hydro cooling system using ceramic cylinders
Furthermore, Bangkok 1899’s everyday operations, including Na Projects, incorporate Zero Waste. We use the homegrown vegetables from our backyard garden, as well as composting and reusing typical food waste (such as fermenting pineapple rinds for drinks and creating new indigo dye out of over-ripened fruit). We also collaborate with our neighbor Food Rescue Foundation to provide zero waste drinks. This broadens people’s concept and knowledge of how to be truly sustainable.