Environment News
Thailand environment news, climate change, sustainability, and natural disasters—stay updated on eco-initiatives, biodiversity conservation, and renewable energy efforts. Get the latest from The Thaiger, your trusted source for environmental news in Thailand.
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Koh Chang durian prices soar to 250 baht amid production drop
A surge in demand for the famed Chanee Koh Chang durian from Trat Province has seen prices starting at 250 baht per kilogramme. With a reported production drop of 30% due to unpredictable weather, local farmers are busy selling the highly sought-after fruit both in-store and online. Phuttiphong Phothipanich, an agricultural officer from Koh Chang, Trat Province, inspected the first…
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Smog shock: Chiang Mai claims ‘top’ spot in global pollution woes
Chiang Mai today topped the smog charts as the world’s most polluted city. The northern region of Thailand continues to be ensnared by a thick smog, causing serious health concerns for residents and visitors. The monitoring website IQAir highlighted Chiang Mai as the city with the worst air pollution levels at 9.20am. The fine dust levels were recorded at an…
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Acidic anxiety: Lorry leak near Mekong raises contamination fears
A lorry incident in Laos, which resulted in a sulphuric acid leak into a tributary of the Mekong River, has sparked concerns about potential water contamination along the Thailand-Laos border. However, the water quality in this stretch of the river was deemed safe yesterday, April 8, with continuous monitoring set to persist until the end of the week. Somsak Thepsutin,…
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Chiang Mai declares more districts as disaster zones amid wildfires
Wildfires continue to blaze through Chiang Mai, leading the local authority yesterday to declare three additional districts as disaster zones. These districts, Chiang Dao, Mae Taeng, and Chai Prakarn, have joined Fang and Phrao districts, which were declared disaster areas on April 4. The provincial governor has cited the fatigue of initial firefighters and soldiers as a significant obstacle in…
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Thai community’s heartwarming bond with rare parakeets
In a remote Thai village nestled near Suan Yai Temple in Nonthaburi, a heartwarming tale of coexistence unfolds between its community and a flock of vibrant Alexandrine parakeets. Residents of this tight-knit community have forged a unique relationship with the emerald-feathered parakeets, prioritising their well-being over personal gain. Wantanee Sriyaphai, a resident, expresses her sentiment. “It’s okay if that makes…
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Phuket addresses waste issue with new incinerator construction
Phuket City Municipality convened its inaugural public gathering last week to discuss the construction of a new incinerator at the Saphan Hin solid waste disposal facility. The proposed scheme involves EA Waste Management Phuket Co Ltd, a private company, developing and managing the new facility. Covering nearly 15 rai (24,000 square metres), the new site is expected to hold a…
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Laem Phromthep’s sunset threatened by caterpillars (video)
Laem Phromthep, a popular sunset viewpoint in Phuket known for its iconic Palmyra palm trees, is under threat due to an infestation of black-headed caterpillars. The local governor, Sophon Suwannarat, observed this alarming situation during a recent visit to the cape. He attributed the sudden surge in the caterpillar population to the uncharacteristically prolonged dry spell in the past few…
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Water crisis hits Koh Pha Ngan and Koh Samui, tap water rationed
On Koh Pha Ngan, a water crisis since late March has led to a stringent rationing of tap water which affected both locals and tourists. The rationing, operating on a rotational basis, leaves some areas parched on certain days while others savour the flow. A meagre 3,500m3 to 4,000m3 of water trickles through the pipes daily, barely meeting the island’s…
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Surge in smog levels exceeds safe limits in northern Thailand
A surge in smog levels was experienced this morning, with PM2.5 dust readings surpassing 200 microgrammes per cubic metre of air in three northern provinces, including Chiang Mai. The Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA) disclosed at 9am that 20 provinces registered red (significantly harmful) levels of particulate matter 2.5 micrometres and below in diameter (PM2.5). The readings fluctuated…
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Lop Buri plans macaque control centre to tackle monkey menace
A macaque control centre is being planned in Lop Buri by Phatcharavat Wongsuwan, the Minister of Natural Resources and Environment. This initiative aims to sterilise the monkeys and relocate them to other areas, in a bid to address the issues they are causing within the town. Phatcharavat, following a Cabinet meeting yesterday, expressed the necessity of this control centre, given…
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Thailand’s waste-fighting wave: InterceptorTM 019 makes a splash
The fight against marine waste has taken a monumental step in Thailand with the official launch of the InterceptorTM 019, a solar-powered and fully automated device dedicated to capturing waste. This milestone is the result of joint efforts by The Ocean Cleanup, a Dutch non-profit environmental engineering organisation, and its first global implementation partner, The Coca-Cola Company, along with a…
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Dust distress: Thailand choked by PM2.5 air pollution surge
Air pollution levels in parts of Thailand have surged into the red-coded category, indicating serious health risks. Particularly hard hit was Chiang Mai, where excessive PM2.5 dust levels were detected on today, April 4. The Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA) revealed that 21 provinces were grappling with dangerous PM2.5 particulate levels – fine airborne particles measuring 2.5 micrometres…
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Thai smog crisis prompts call for global shift to plant-based diets
Northern Thailand is grappling with a persistent smog problem, typically attributed to crop waste burning, deforestation for mushroom harvesting and vehicle emissions, prompting calls for a global shift to plant-based diets. However, an emerging consensus among scientists and environmental activists suggests a deeper, global solution is required to avert a climate disaster. The crux of the issue, they argue, lies…
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Rayong fishing groups sue Star Petroleum over oil spill devastation
A class action lawsuit has been initiated by 14 individuals from Rayong, representing fishing groups and local businesses. They are suing Star Petroleum Refining Company (SPRC), the owner of an underwater oil pipeline that ruptured in 2022, claiming that the subsequent major oil spill has devastated their livelihoods. These individuals are part of a local fishing community known as Pak…
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Video footage shows sewage spill on Jomtien Beach
Authorities sprang into action after a video showing sewage gushing into the sea at Soi 8, Jomtien Beach surfaced on Wednesday. Mayor Poramet Ngampichet hailed the quick response, revealing yesterday that the once-polluted waters had returned to their pristine state, much to the delight of beach enthusiasts. Mayor Poramet lauded the swift reaction to the crisis, highlighting Pattaya City officials’…
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Scientists: Earth’s spinning faster
Scientists warn of a peculiar predicament: Earth’s rotation is hurtling towards a potential adjustment, offsetting the delicate dance of seconds, minutes, and hours as we know them. Duncan Agnew, lead author of the study and a distinguished geophysicist hailing from the hallowed halls of the Scripps Institution of Oceanography at the University of California, San Diego provided insight into the…
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Stainless steel recycling key to fighting climate change in Thailand
Netherlands-based metals recycling powerhouse Oryx Stainless unveiled a study that could transform the climate change game in Thailand. A study commissioned by Oryx Stainless unearthed a remarkable potential for mitigating climate change through increased stainless steel recycling, shedding light on its societal and environmental benefits. Conducted by a collaboration of Thai and German scientists, with support from The Fraunhofer Center…
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Pollution plagues Pattaya’s Na Kluea Canal
Pattaya City is under scrutiny as officials launch an investigation into the polluted waters of the Na Kluea Canal, following complaints from residents. Reports flooded in, accompanied by damning video evidence, revealing a grim reality of garbage-strewn waters and lifeless fish floating on the surface. Allegations point fingers at industrial estates in the vicinity, accused of negligently allowing toxic substances…
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Pattaya’s waste revolution: MOI Waste Bank Week
The MOI Waste Bank Week event held at Wat Chong Lom Temple Community in Pattaya signals the establishment of waste banks by local government bodies. This eco-friendly drive, spurred by directives from the Chon Buri Provincial Administration, mandated the simultaneous launch of recyclable waste banks on January 1. Spearheaded by Pattaya’s Natural Resources and Environment Office on March 25, the…
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Huai Yang Waterfall National Park to close from April 1
The Huai Yang Waterfall National Park in Thap Sakae, Prachuap Khiri Khan province is set to lock its gates to tourists from April 1 onwards. Somjet Chantana, Director of the Administration Office for Conservation Area 3 (Phetchaburi Branch), stated that the decision was reached after extensive discussions with Rakpong Boonyoi, the Head of Huai Yang Waterfall National Park. The closure,…
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Bamboo barges battle plastic pollution in Bangkok
To tackle Thailand’s plastic pollution crisis, a pioneering project has been launched on the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok. Black flies scattered as plastic waste cascaded from bamboo conveyor belts onto solar-powered barges, marking a significant step towards cleaner waters. Dubbed the “interceptor,” this innovative boat-like structure, trailing a floating barrier, utilises the river’s currents to guide plastic debris into…
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Northern Thailand’s persistent wildfires exacerbate air pollution
Wildfires persist in northern Thailand, contributing to a surge in air pollution despite recent downpours. As of Monday, Mae Hong Son recorded 6,646 wildfires this year, predominantly in the districts of Mueang Mae Hong Son, Pai, and Mae Sariang. This has led to Mae Hong Son exceeding safe levels of airborne particulates for 38 consecutive days. Mae Sariang district reported…
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Rare two-headed-like snake spotted in Sukhothai
A peculiar snake with an extraordinary appearance caused a stir on social media after it was found slithering into a home in Sukhothai in the middle of the night last night. The snake, with its unique black and purplish colour and distinctive white ring patterns, was unlike anything ever seen before by the residents and sparked an intense online debate…
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Glowing gold and sleek black eels captivate crowds at Thai temple
Villagers and tourists alike flocked to a Thai temple in Chon Buri to witness the enchanting sight of two extraordinary eels, one shimmering in dazzling gold, the other sleek in jet black. The eels swam in a basin at Wat Worapot Sangkhavas Temple in Phan Thong District, Chon Buri. The frenzy was sparked by a viral social media post showcasing…
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Stink city: Residents hold noses as foul odour fills Bangkok streets
Residents in the capital city were left pinching their noses last night after an unpleasant smell permeated several districts of Bangkok. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) attributed the smell to a sudden weather shift and ensuing chemical reactions with airborne pollutants. The BMA issued the statement in response to numerous reports from citizens who were disturbed by a pungent, burning scent…
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Sutin: PM2.5 pollution focus of high stakes meeting with Cambodia
In a high-profile diplomatic move, Defence Minister Sutin Klungsang has declared war on PM2.5 pollution, setting the stage for a showdown with Cambodia. Sutin is gearing up for a fierce clash during the 16th General Border Committee (GBC) meeting in Phnom Penh. He pointed fingers at Cambodian farm practices exacerbating pollution woes across borders. “I will confront Tea Seiha on…
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Sustainable solutions: Bangkok’s waste-to-energy plants
To combat the Thai capital’s mounting garbage crisis, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is rolling out two cutting-edge waste-to-energy plants to revolutionise waste management by 2026. BMA permanent secretary Wanthanee Wattana voiced unwavering confidence in the timely completion of these game-changing facilities. Wattana revealed that construction is well underway at the Nong Khaem and On Nut garbage disposal centres, with Privy…
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Water shortages strike two districts in Prachuap Khiri Khan
Prachuap Khiri Khan is hit by water shortages as two districts plunge into a state of emergency due to an unprecedented drought crisis. With acute water shortages ravaging communities, authorities issue a desperate plea for aid and conservation efforts. Acting Deputy Governor Kittiphong Sukhapakul officially declared drought disaster zones in two districts of Prachuap Khiri Khan on Monday. This decisive…
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Phayao to become Thailand’s next eco-tourism hotspot
In a move set to transform Phayao into Thailand’s next eco-tourism hotspot, the Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, unleashed a whopping 300 million baht across 13 projects. This ambitious blueprint not only aims to catapult Phayao onto the global sustainable travel map but also promises a future where rubber farmers rejoice over record-breaking profits. PM Srettha, who also…
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NASA and GISTDA team up to clear the air with ASIA-AQ project
In a groundbreaking initiative, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has joined forces with Thailand’s Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA) to tackle the pervasive issue of air pollution through the Airborne and Satellite Investigation of the Asian Air Quality (ASIA-AQ) project, writes Zohaib “Zo” Sikander and Sasinaphat Aussavaratchatanakin. This collaboration marks a significant stride in using cutting-edge…
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