Community Craftsman Innovation Project

As part of its commitment to sustainable community development, CH. Karnchang has implemented the "Community Craftsman Innovation Promotion Project" for four consecutive years. This initiative aligns with corporate sustainability goals by fostering knowledge exchange between employees and local communities. Through this program, employees contribute their technical expertise to support community-driven innovation, enabling local artisans and technicians to develop solutions that enhance both their livelihoods and societal well-being. The initiative underscores the company’s dedication to social responsibility, skill development, and inclusive economic growth in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles.

In 2024, a total of 97 technical teams from across Thailand participated in the national competition and successfully passed the qualification process. Among these, 12 teams were selected to receive the Preliminary Invention Development Award in recognition of their innovative contributions. Following this, the top three teams demonstrating the highest potential were honored with the 4th Annual Community Technician Innovation Award, recognizing their advancements in technological solutions for community development.

The award-winning innovations are as follows:

1. Net-Pulling Winch – An innovation from Prachuap Khiri Khan Province designed to enhance efficiency in fishing net operations, supporting local fisheries and sustainable marine resource management.
2. Electric Wheelchair Towing Device – Developed in Samut Sakhon Province, this device aims to improve mobility solutions for individuals with disabilities, contributing to inclusive transportation accessibility.
3. Nakki: Modern Naga – A contemporary interpretation of the Naga, created in Bueng Kan Province, reflecting cultural heritage preservation through innovative design and craftsmanship.

Net-Pulling Winch – An innovation from Prachuap Khiri Khan Province

The implementation of a compact winch powered by a diesel or gasoline engine enhances operational efficiency in fishing activities by reducing the required workforce for net retrieval from 2-4 individuals to only 1-2. This mechanization not only mitigates physical labor but also optimizes productivity by allocating more time for fish sorting. Two models are available: a stainless steel version with an 8-horsepower engine, priced at 35,000 baht, and an iron version with a 5-horsepower engine, priced at 20,000 baht.

Electric Wheelchair Towing Device – Developed in Samut Sakhon Province

The electric wheelchair power attachment is available in two models, designed for both smooth and uneven surfaces. It has a maximum travel range of 20 km and can be easily detached from the wheelchair. Key features include forward and reverse mobility, integrated headlights, and a maximum speed of 30 km/h. With a price range of 12,000–15,000 THB, this innovation contributes to inclusive mobility by improving the accessibility and affordability of high-performance electric wheelchairs for persons with disabilities.

Nakki: Modern Naga – A contemporary interpretation of the Naga, created in Bueng Kan Province

Nakkee is a ceramic product crafted from locally sourced clay, developed in alignment with the concept of "Bueng Kan’s Natural and Cultural Identity." The composition consists of 70% indigenous clay from Bueng Kan and 30% high-grade Lampang clay, a material renowned for its ceramic quality. The production process involves firing at 1000°C, followed by a spray-painting finish. With a retail price of 399 Baht per unit, the product achieves a monthly sales volume of 70-100 pieces, generating supplementary income of 500-1000 Baht per month for novice monks

Supporting community and social projects not only improves the quality of life for local populations but also fosters community engagement, which helps mitigate conflicts or disputes between the company and local stakeholders. This leads to smoother project implementation, lowering the costs associated with dispute resolution. Furthermore, strong community relationships contribute to securing a "Social License to Operate," reducing the risk of project opposition. The company (CH. Karnchang) also gains tangible benefits of community investments from various aspects of its embedded CSR initiatives. Engaging in CSR activities not only delivers value to the community but also helps the company reduce costs and sustainably enhance its long-term economic efficiency, as outlined below :

• Optimize corporate investment in workforce training and capacity-building initiatives

  Employee engagement in corporate initiatives, including consultancy, knowledge transfer, and community-driven activities, fosters the development of communication skills, public speaking, and teamwork. By integrating these initiatives, the company can achieve cost efficiencies in employee training, with projected annual savings of 5,000–10,000 THB per employee. This aligns with sustainable business practices by leveraging internal expertise for capacity building and workforce development

• Foster practical experience and enhance competencies in project management

  Participation in this program provides employees with hands-on experience in project management and problem-solving, enhancing their capacity to address challenges in real-world scenarios. By fostering internal skill development, the program minimizes the necessity for external training investments or consultancy services, thereby optimizing resource allocation and promoting sustainable workforce development.

• Strengthen employee engagement to promote organizational sustainability and productivity

  Corporate engagement in community-focused initiatives strengthens employee motivation and retention, leading to reduced recruitment and onboarding costs. This aligns with sustainable business practices that promote long-term workforce stability and corporate social responsibility. On average, organizations can achieve cost savings of approximately 50,000 baht per retained employee in recruitment and training expenses, contributing to operational efficiency and sustainable human capital management.

• Minimize financial burdens related to community conflict resolution, ensuring social cohesion and responsible corporate governance

  The integration of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives into operational processes enhances community engagement and strengthens stakeholder relationships. This proactive approach mitigates the risk of community opposition or project delays, contributing to sustainable project implementation. Additionally, it can lead to cost savings of up to 500,000 baht per project in conflict management expenditures, thereby improving overall operational efficiency and social impact.

• Promoting the Development of Business Innovations for Society and the Environment

  CH. Karnchang has sent employee representatives to participate in the “Community Craftsman Innovation Promotion Project,” which provides vocational training and creates opportunities for exchanging ideas with local technicians involved in the program. This initiative serves as another channel through which the company fosters creativity, driving the development of innovations that benefit both society and the environment.