My name is Chayanan Boonyaperm, though most people know me as "Fah," which means "sky" in Thai. In Thailand, nicknames are almost as essential as our given names and often reflect something that is special to our families. My father, who served in the Thai Air Force army, chose "Fah" as a tribute to his love for the sky—a constant presence in his life. This connection to the sky has always reminded me to look at the bigger picture, a philosophy that influences both my personal and professional pursuits.

In April 2023, I joined Mitsubishi Chemical Thailand as APAC communications leader, overseeing communications across a dynamic region that includes Thailand, Vietnam, India, the Philippines, Indonesia, and Singapore. But my journey into environmental advocacy began long before this role. My love for the ocean and marine conservation started with scuba diving, which opened my eyes to the beauty and vulnerability of our underwater ecosystems.

From 2017 to 2019, I explored some of Thailand's most stunning dive spots, encountering incredible marine life such as whale sharks, sailfish, and manta rays. These dives gave me firsthand insight into the urgency of environmental issues and motivated me to study sustainability practices and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Living in Southeast Asia, I became acutely aware of the region's contribution to ocean pollution and its severe impact on marine life—from microplastics to coral bleaching. Each dive fueled my commitment to address these challenges and protect our oceans.

One dive in particular stands out as a wake-up call. In 2018, I collected ocean temperature data in Koh Tao with a marine researcher, recording a temperature of 22°C at the time. When I revisited the site in 2024, the temperature had risen to 26°C. While warmer waters might feel comfortable, the ecological impact is severe. Seeing once-vibrant coral reefs bleached and lifeless broke my heart and strengthened my resolve to contribute meaningfully to environmental sustainability.

My role at the Mitsubishi Chemical Group allows me to champion the company's commitment to sustainable solutions. The chemical industry can be a powerful force for environmental progress, and I'm dedicated to using communications to raise awareness about our eco-friendly applications and driving sustainability into the company's mindset. I believe that change begins with individual awareness, so I aim to craft messages that educate and inspire people to make responsible choices, particularly in the use of chemicals for the good of the environment.

Ultimately, my work is about more than corporate responsibility. It's deeply personal and driven by a desire to protect the planet for future generations. Through both my passion for diving and my role in communications, I hope to remind people of the power they hold to drive positive change. Together, we can create a world where sustainability is second nature, and the natural beauty of our planet is preserved for all to enjoy.