Bangkok, January 29, 2025: Climate change represents a critical global challenge that necessitates a collaborative effort across all sectors. Thailand participated in the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP 26) and announced its goals of achieving Carbon Neutrality by 2050 and Net Zero Greenhouse Gas Emissions by 2065, marking a significant milestone in driving the country towards sustainability. One of the key approaches to achieving these goals is the adoption of eco-friendly or environmental labels. These labels signify a commitment to sustainable production and consumption practices, in harmony with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The abundance and diversity of environmental labels can often confuse consumers, making it challenging for them to identify and select eco-friendly products. In response, the Thai Chamber of Commerce (TCC) is exploring strategies to enhance the visibility of sustainable products, aiming to simplify the process for consumers to recognize and purchase environmentally conscious options.

The Committee on Energy of the Thai Chamber of Commerce, in collaboration with Central Group, led by Central Retail Corporation Public Company Limited, along with public and private sector partners, has launched the "Hug the Earth" project. This initiative aims to promote a more sustainable world and makes it easier for customers to shop for eco-friendly products with environmental labels. Eco-labeled products will be curated and displayed in sales areas or designated product display points within Central Retail's businesses. Consumers can effortlessly spot and choose sustainable items by looking for the "Hug the Earth" project signage, ensuring that their purchases are truly environmentally friendly. Central Retail, a prominent retail and wholesale enterprise in Thailand, is taking the lead as the first retailer in the nation to launch this initiative. The Thai Chamber of Commerce plans to expand the "Hug the Earth" project to encompass the retail sector, its members, and networks nationwide, promoting the adoption of eco-labeled products throughout Thai society.

Mr. Sanan Angubolkul, Chairman of the Thai Chamber of Commerce and Board of Trade of Thailand, stated that the TCC, as a private sector organization, recognizes the importance of fostering collaboration between businesses, the government, and civil society to drive sustainable economic growth under the concept of "Connect-Competitive-Sustainable." The aim is to set new benchmarks for entrepreneurs through the BCG (Bio-Circular-Green Economy) model, which integrates the Bio Economy, Circular Economy, and Green Economy, ultimately striving for a transition to a Nature Positive Economy.

“The launch of the "Hug the Earth" initiative by the Committee on Energy of the Thai Chamber of Commerce stands as a significant testament to the dedication towards promoting sustainable products and catering to the needs of environmentally aware consumers. This project aims to enhance awareness among both consumers and businesses regarding the importance of eco-friendly products while also simplifying the process for consumers to engage in environmental conservation by encouraging the purchase of products with eco-labels. These products will be carefully selected and prominently showcased in designated sections marked by the "Hug the Earth" project signage. Central Retail Corporation Public Company Limited (CRC) stands as the first retail entity to lead this initiative across its stores. The Thai Chamber of Commerce plans to broaden the impact of the "Hug the Earth" project, extending it to various retail sectors within its network nationwide. This initiative represents a united commitment to actively encourage the purchase of eco-friendly labeled products.”

Mr.Pichai Chirathivat, Executive Director of Central Group and Director/Member of the Corporate Governance and Sustainability Committee of Central Retail Corporation Public Company Limited, stated that Central Group emphasizes sustainability in all dimensions, ranging from retail business and hospitality to real estate and services. The aim is to foster positive transformations in social, economic, and environmental realms. Central Group is convinced that meaningful change is possible through collaboration among all stakeholders, and encouraging environmentally friendly consumption habits is a crucial strategy to achieve this vision.

Central Retail, a prominent player in Thailand's retail and wholesale sector under the Central Group, embraces a guiding principle known as "CRC Care." This initiative is dedicated to nurturing and enhancing all areas of the business to foster sustainable growth throughout the entire ecosystem, ultimately achieving the status of a fully Green & Sustainable Retail and Wholesale entity. With a strong focus on environmental issues, the company is committed to achieving Net Zero through its CRC ‘ReNEW’ strategy, which includes four key components: Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions, Promoting Environmental Responsibility by equipping all employees with ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) knowledge, Advocating for Eco-Friendly Materials by encouraging the use of sustainable products and packaging, and Implementing Waste Management Solutions to handle solid waste effectively. The "Hug the Earth" project is another collaboration that reflects the CRC ‘ReNEW’ approach, emphasizing responsible sourcing. This project aims to make sustainable products more accessible to consumers while also motivating producers to adopt environmentally conscious manufacturing practices.

Central Retail has taken the lead as the first retail organization in Thailand to launch this project. Consumers can effortlessly find a wide range of eco-labeled products by searching for the "Hug the Earth" project signage, which depicts a hand cradling the Earth, representing a dedication to sustainable stewardship of our planet. These products are curated and displayed in sales areas or designated product display points within Central Retail's network, including Thai Watsadu, Power Buy, Central, Robinson, Tops, Go Wholesale, B2S, OfficeMate, SuperSports, CMG, and more. This initiative helps consumers make informed decisions to purchase green products with confidence, knowing that these products are genuinely environmentally friendly. Additionally, it encourages producers to prioritize environmentally conscious production and distribution processes.

“Through the collaborative efforts of both public and private sectors, Central Retail believes that the "Hug the Earth" project will encourage consumers and producers to focus on choosing and creating environmentally friendly products. This project aims to ensure a sustainable and livable future for the next generation.”

For additional information about the "Hug the Earth" initiative, visit

www.centralretail.com/hug-the-earth and view the project video at

www.youtube.com/watch?v=HBXvsIYPMO4.

The "Hug the Earth" project represents a significant opportunity for retailers to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability by promoting and selling eco-labeled products. This project not only meets the demands of modern consumers but also helps drive business growth in a robust and sustainable manner, fostering a shared commitment to environmental responsibility among businesses and consumers.