Meliá Chiang Mai has teamed up with three prominent Thai universities—Suan Dusit University in Lampang, Chiang Mai University, and Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna Tak—to guide future culinary professionals in sustainable farming, culinary techniques, and waste management. This initiative is part of Meliá’s “360º Cuisine” program, a project aimed at fostering sustainable food practices while minimizing the environmental impact.

The partnership allows culinary students to learn about Meliá’s eco-friendly kitchen operations and provides hands-on experience with the “360º Cuisine” approach, a model that supports local farmers and sources chemical-free produce from ethical suppliers. Ingredients like vegetables, herbs, cage-free eggs, fresh milk, and artisanal cheese are sourced from farms such as Seed, Rong Khum, Jartisann, and Supha Bee Farm. Chef Suksant “Billy” Chutinthratip, Meliá Chiang Mai’s executive chef, leads the program, emphasizing thoughtful cooking processes that reduce food waste by repurposing organic waste into compost and fertilizer.

Chef Billy explains that working with students is “incredibly rewarding” as they gain insights into sustainable practices and bring fresh ideas to the table. Since the program began in 2022, Meliá Chiang Mai has processed more than 5,590 kg of food waste into compost and over 1,820 kg of cooking oil into biodiesel.

Through visits to local farms and training in Meliá’s kitchens, students experience sustainable practices firsthand. Chef Billy also integrates case studies and personal instruction into their coursework, creating a comprehensive educational experience that aligns with Thailand’s growing focus on eco-friendly initiatives.

Graduates who complete the internship often become eligible for employment at Meliá Chiang Mai. Chef Billy notes that hiring students who embrace a sustainability mindset strengthens the team and aligns with the hotel’s goals. Graduates like Thodsapol Chaimongkol and Chanika Thongtecha have transitioned into permanent roles, contributing innovative ideas like using kale in pizza dough and transforming surplus tomatoes into jelly for the hotel’s buffets.

Looking ahead, Meliá Chiang Mai recently extended its educational outreach by signing agreements with Ayutthaya Vocational College and Bungphra Phitsanulok Commercial College. This expansion reinforces the hotel’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of culinary talent, particularly in sustainable practices.