Newswise — Professor Emeritus Dr. Surachart Bamrungsuk, the Faculty of Political Science, Chulalongkorn University, and Professor Dr. Suchana Chavanich, the Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, and Deputy Director of the Aquatic Resources Research Institute, participated in the forum “A Heated World: Two Dimensions of Crisis.” The discussion addressed global disasters caused by climate conditions and geopolitical conflicts. The event was held on March 23, 2026, at Nextopia, Siam Paragon, and was organized by Channel 3 to reflect on the intensifying crises of climate change and global conflicts.
Prof. Emeritus Dr. Surachart analyzed the war situation in the Middle East, stating that the current situation represents the fourth global energy crisis, following those in 1973, 1979, and 2003. He noted that it is more severe than the Iraq War in 2003 and does not believe the conflict will end soon. Citing Israeli intelligence, he said the war has not yet reached its conclusion and is entering its fourth week—a period when tensions are expected to escalate. Attacks are increasingly targeting dangerous strategic sites such as power plants and nuclear facilities to weaken the adversary’s radiological or nuclear capabilities.
“This war employs low-cost but highly effective drones such as the Shahed-136, which can inflict significant damage even on major powers. Modern warfare is hybrid in nature, combining conventional warfare, unconventional tactics such as bombings, information warfare, and economic fronts. In contemporary conflicts, pilots no longer risk flying into heavily defended areas but instead rely on long-range missile strikes or drones.”
He added that Thai people will be affected by rising oil prices. Shortages of plastic pellets and related products may prompt a shift away from reliance on plastics. He concluded by cautioning that the country, society, and individuals must be prepared for an increasingly volatile and uncertain future.
While the Middle East war intensifies, the physical world is heating up as well. Prof. Dr. Suchana Chavanich stated, “During a visit to Antarctica, we observed alarming changes: snow that once accumulated now melts as soon as it reaches the ground—something never seen before. ” In some areas, this melting was significant enough to form flowing waterfalls, despite summer temperatures that should remain well below freezing.”
While global efforts aim to limit temperature rise to no more than 2°C, the Arctic and Antarctic regions have already warmed by 3–4°C. Both are heating faster than the rest of the planet, driven in part by heat and greenhouse gases circulating through the global climate system.
If Antarctic ice were to melt completely, global sea levels would rise by up to 50 meters—approximately the height of the Victory Monument. What scientists once predicted would occur in 100 years is already happening today. Melting ice could also revive bacteria and parasites frozen for millions of years, potentially leading to emerging diseases in animals and possibly humans.
In tropical countries like Thailand, even a 1°C rise in sea temperature can already cause coral bleaching and reef loss, threatening fisheries and tourism. Meanwhile, attacks on oil facilities and fuel depots during conflicts release massive volumes of pollution and accelerate global warming. Together, these trends are making net-zero emissions by 2050 harder to achieve, as environmental priorities are often overshadowed by wartime demands.
“Most people only become aware of the risks when they experience disasters firsthand. However, the climate crisis has no vaccine like COVID-19. Once changes occur, they cannot be reversed. Governments should provide tools that encourage behavioral change across all groups—for example, making reusable bags widely accessible, not just issuing regulations. We must recognize that we are part of nature, not its owners. What we do today will shape the future of our children,” she concluded.
The forum also featured distinguished speakers, including Mr. Sihasak Phuangketkeow, Minister of Foreign Affairs; Dr. Kobsak Pootrakool, Senior Executive Vice President of Bangkok Bank, and Mr. Tara Buakamsri, Advisor to Greenpeace Thailand. The session was moderated by Ms. Karuna Buakamsri and Mr. Kitti Singhapat.
This forum aimed to raise awareness about the interconnectedness of global conflicts and the climate crisis, as well as their implications for the economy, global politics, and environmental issues. It also sought to propose adaptation strategies and practical preparedness guidelines for Thai people in the future.
Original release: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/296095/
