As the curtain falls on the France-Thailand Year of Innovation, the resounding spirit of collaboration and progress continues to echo. The grand closing event, “Vivez l’Innovation,” held at the Alliance Française Bangkok on November 25th, served as a platform to celebrate the year’s achievements and look ahead to a future brimming with possibilities. The France-Thailand Year of Innovation transcended the realm of mere scientific and technological advancements. It embodied a shared ambition to improve existing systems, reinvent approaches, and pave the way for sustainable development in both economies and societies. The “Vivez l’Innovation” event resonated with this spirit, bringing together French and Thai stakeholders who had actively contributed to the year’s success. Among the celebrated initiatives was the SIMPLE project, captivating attendees with its innovative approach to environmental education through the power of virtual reality.

The SIMPLE project, supported by the European Union, displayed its interactive virtual universes (VUs) prototypes including RAC VR which delves into the consequences of waste mismanagement on irrigation systems, Hoan Kiem Air which allows stepping into a world where you can experiment with car-free streets and witness their impact on air pollution and a game on wire fire prevention. These are just a glimpse of the immersive experiences offered by the SIMPLE project’s VUs, designed to engage young audiences and spark critical thinking about environmental challenges.

Public participants had the opportunity to experience these virtual worlds firsthand, providing valuable feedback and fueling excitement for the project’s future endeavors. The positive response from the audience underscored the potential of VR technology to revolutionize environmental education, making complex issues relatable and engaging for young minds.

The public testing at the Alliance Française Bangkok marks a significant milestone for the SIMPLE project, paving the way for further refinement and expansion.

The team, along with the French Embassy in Thailand, expresses immense gratitude for the opportunity to showcase their work and engage with the public. As they look towards the next public testing event, one thing is certain: the SIMPLE project’s innovative approach to environmental education holds immense promise for shaping a greener tomorrow.