The Tunghai University Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering Alumni Association recently hosted the “Sustainability × AI Forward-Looking Forum.” The event brought together representatives from academia and industry to exchange perspectives on sustainable development, artificial intelligence applications, and future industry trends. Held from 11:20 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., the panel discussion fostered cross-generational and cross-disciplinary dialogue on the opportunities and challenges facing the chemical engineering, materials, environmental engineering, and petrochemical industries amid global industrial transformation.

The panel featured four distinguished Tunghai alumni, including Mr. Lien-Chih Yang, a member of the Class of 27 and Chairman of NOVAX Material & Technology Inc.; Professor Yang Ku, a member of the Class of 19 and Chair Professor in the Department of Environmental Engineering at National Taiwan University of Science and Technology; Mr. Fang-Ming Hsu, a member of the Class of 24 with expertise in environmental and occupational safety engineering at National Yunlin University of Science and Technology; and Mr. Ke-Yen Lin, a member of the Class of 18 and General Manager of Formosa Petrochemical Corporation. Coming from diverse backgrounds in academic research, environmental and occupational safety engineering, and industrial management, the four panelists drew on their professional expertise and practical experience to discuss how companies can pursue operational efficiency and innovative growth while fulfilling their environmental responsibilities and advancing sustainable governance.

As artificial intelligence continues to develop rapidly, its role has expanded beyond a standalone technological tool to encompass a wide range of applications, including research and development, process management, energy utilization, risk prediction, and decision support. For the chemical engineering and materials industries, effectively integrating AI with existing technical expertise, data management capabilities, and frontline operational experience—and further enhancing safety, quality, efficiency, and resource utilization—has become a critical priority for industrial upgrading.

NOVAX Material & Technology Inc. has long been committed to exploring the connection between materials technology, industrial innovation, and sustainable development. The company continues to consider how professional expertise and technological capabilities can address evolving market needs and environmental challenges. Beyond providing a platform for alumni exchange and the intergenerational transmission of knowledge, the forum highlighted the importance of industry–academia collaboration and cross-disciplinary dialogue.

Looking ahead, NOVAX will continue to follow developments in artificial intelligence, low-carbon processes, and sustainable materials. By working together with industry partners, the company aims to explore materials technology solutions that offer greater resilience, efficiency, and sustainable value, contributing to the long-term transformation and advancement of the chemical and materials industries.