Saraburi, Thailand – What does it look like when a global manufacturing giant balances people, profit, and the planet? Students from the School of Global Studies (SGS) found out yesterday during a deep-dive field visit to the Michelin Nongkhae Plant.

The visit, a key part of the GS305 Professional Development Portfolio course, was designed to bridge the gap between classroom theory and professional practice. Students were introduced to Michelin’s “All-Sustainable” approach, a strategic model where every decision is weighed against the “3Ps”: People, Profit, and Planet.

Driving Green Innovation At the Nongkhae site, sustainability isn’t just a buzzword; it’s built into the infrastructure. The plant features a massive Solar PV Rooftop on its parking area, which reduces CO2 emissions by nearly 700,000 kg per year. This commitment to a “Cleaner and More Efficient Plant” serves as a tangible example of Michelin’s goal to operate within planetary limits.

Empowering People and Communities Beyond environmental metrics, the students learned about Michelin’s “Respect for People” pillar. In Thailand, this extends to the very beginning of the supply chain through agroforestry projects. These initiatives empower smallholder rubber farmers to diversify their income and adopt environmentally friendly farming practices, securing better livelihoods for thousands of families.

A Gateway to Future Careers The trip concluded with an engaging Q&A session with Michelin experts, including the Site Director and the Regional Sustainability Officer. This visit also paved the way for potential future collaborations, including internships for GSSE students and guest lectures from Michelin’s sustainability practitioners.

By witnessing these concrete actions, our students are now better equipped to become the next generation of sustainability officers and social entrepreneurs.