The International School of Bangkok has always striven for excellence in terms of environmentalism and technological advancement, with new projects and improvements every year. One of ISB’s most recent being the implementation of solar energy with a 500-kilowatt solar farm atop the Rajendra gym. Although there are questions regarding ISB’s environmental status relative to competing Bangkok schools, the community is in agreement that this is a step in the right direction.
In 2021 ISB established the Environmental Advisory Board, consisting of students, faculty, operations team, and administrators. Together, this board sets the direction of the environmental efforts and initiatives at ISB. Board Chairman and ISB Deputy Head of School states that “ISB has always been at the forefront of environmental efforts” (De Vries) giving examples such as the EWC (Environmental Wilderness Center) and the Cultural Center which was the first LEED Gold standard school building in Asia. These examples are part of a long list of initiatives implemented by ISB in order to reduce its environmental footprint.
As for the solar project, Marc De Vries has made it clear that the addition of solar panels is not just for show: “it was important for us to make sure that this was not just a token project, but instead that the solar plant actually makes an impact in reducing our use of the electric grid” (De Vries). Although cost has always been an issue in terms of solar energy, the timing of this project “coincided with advances in solar technology, making solar panels more efficient and affordable”.
Although its intent was not that of a “token project”, the new solar farm plays an additional role in ISB’s image and marketing. “Seeing a school be environmentally friendly and also advanced in technology is really important for students and families, especially new ones looking to go to school here,” says Vinayak Kohli, a new high school student at ISB. Environmental efforts as well as technological developments have definitely painted ISB in a positive light, and rightfully so.
These efforts have been greatly appreciated by the community as they are a great step forwards, however, there are still questions regarding ISB’s standing amongst other Bangkok schools. According to Bangkok Patana School’s official website, as of 2019, they have increased their solar energy generating capacity to 1.2MW, more than doubling ISB’s current capacity while being more than three years ahead. This, as well as the fact that ISB’s solar farm has not yet been granted an operating permit, largely contributes to doubts community members, are having about these initiatives and their processes. Although ISB may be at the forefront of some environmental efforts, are we comfortable remaining followers in this matter, or are there steps to be taken to become leaders?