SDGs Report 2022-2023

41 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) ThaksinUniversity, theLungs of Songkhla City Thaksin University, Songkhla Campus is known as “The University in the Park, located on 142 Rai of land on the foothill of Khao Rup Chang, dotted with plenty of trees and gardens in the park to be used as a space for relaxing. Other than being an educational institution for the city, Thaksin University also takes on a role as the “lungs” of Songkhla city for a very long time. The World Health Organization (WHO) has suggested that every city should have a minimum of 9 square meters of green space per person. Green space can be integrated into several places, such as department stores, hotels, residences, or various organizations. At Thaksin University, there are designated areas allotted, especially to use as green spaces like parks or gardens. The green space can be found throughout the university, for example, in academic buildings, faculties, departments, dormitories, and various activity areas. Thaksin University, Songkhla Campus is a source of oxygen production, absorbing pollution, dust, smoke, and noise for the expanding city of Songkhla. It is a space that creates pleasure. When looking at it, everyone feels comfortable and at ease, which is very important to both the physical and mental health of people in the community. There are many studies indicating that nearly all forms of green space have positive effects on mental health in both the short term and long term. Moreover, it also helps reduce stress and improve quality of life. LIFE ON LAND 15 The highlight of Thaksin University’s Garden lies in its design. Our idea is to create a harmonious atmosphere between the trees and buildings on the campus. Trees and grasses are allowed to grow naturally which is consistent with the policy “The University in the Park” where the gardens are surrounded by shades of trees. Other than having shady areas from the trees, our university also has a large outdoor courtyard and lawns decorated with colorful shrubs, where the opposite side is an activity area under the shade of trees. It can be used as a space to relax, sit, talk, and be a space to support group activities of students and university personnel as well. To achieve the goal of becoming “The University in the Park”, Thaksin University, Songkhla Campus integrated the green space concept into small spac- es such as classrooms, bathrooms, offices, and also on work desks, purposely to provide a relaxing at- mosphere. Additionally, a vertical garden was add- ed on the walls of the buildings which could help reduce temperature on the surface of the buildings. The concept of green space also covered the roadside through the university.