Researchers from the School of Science, University of Phayao (UP) are joining forces with the Faculty of Social Sciences, Srinakharinwirot University, on a regional research project tackling one of Northern Thailand's biggest challenges: PM2.5 air pollution. The project brings together science and social science expertise to protect public health and quality of life, powered by a Youth Citizen Science approach that puts local kids at the heart of environmental monitoring and problem-solving in their own communities. 

The UP-Science team includes Asst. Prof. Dr. Sugunya Suebsan, Asst. Prof. Dr. Reungruthai Sirirak, and Dr. Kanta Sangwijit, with full support from Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sitthisak Pinmongkhonkul, Dean of the School of Science, University of Phayao. 

On Monday, September 21, 2026, the team hit the ground in Phayao for a day packed with community engagement meeting with Srinagarindra the Princess Mother School, Phayao, Dongjen Wittayakhom School, the Phayao Provincial Office of Natural Resources and Environment, and the Rak Wana Samunphrai community enterprise. It's hands-on, boots-on-the-ground research that goes way beyond the lab, connecting directly with schools and communities where it matters most. 

This collaboration is a great example of interdisciplinary research and inter-institutional partnership in action, blending scientific and social science knowledge to build safer school and community ecosystems free from PM2.5, with young people leading the charge in learning, monitoring, and raising awareness in their neighborhoods. 

The project reflects UP School of Science's ongoing commitment to putting science to work for society building strong, lasting partnerships that improve life for people across Northern Thailand. It also ties directly into several UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).