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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Sponsored Do foreigners get free healthcare in Thailand?
Thailand’s healthcare system is well-regarded across Southeast Asia, with options ranging from public hospitals to world-class private facilities. But when it comes to foreign residents or tourists, healthcare access isn’t as straightforward. So, do foreigners get free healthcare in Thailand?...
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Phuket governor inspects Laem Nga beach reclaiming plans for public use
Sophon Suwannarat, the Governor of Phuket, undertook an inspection of Laem Nga Beach, situated at Koh Siray’s northern end yesterday. The primary objective was to evaluate plans for reclaiming the beach for public use. Last Thursday, local villagers assembled at the site to oppose the beach access’s closure by a private landowner. The protest sparked immediate action from officials who…
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Pattaya: Large sea turtle found dead
The tranquillity of Jomtien Beach in Pattaya was disrupted early yesterday morning when a lifeless large sea turtle was found washed ashore. The unusual sight was reported to the special operations officers of Pattaya municipal and sea rescue personnel by tourists around 12.46am. The unfortunate discovery occurred near Soi Jomtien 10, within the Nong Prue subdistrict, Bang Lamung district, Chon…
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Thai agency may include monkeys in wildlife compensation scheme
The Thai Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation (DNP) is contemplating the inclusion of monkeys in its wildlife compensation programme. This consideration arises following an incident where a woman suffered injuries from a macaque attack, leading her to file a police complaint to secure compensation for her medical expenses. The victim, Arikanta Kanchanasinmetha, reported the incident at Tha…
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Chiang Mai faces world’s second-worst air quality amid pollution crisis
Northern Thailand is currently grappling with severe air pollution, with Chiang Mai experiencing the second-worst air quality globally. As of today, March 8, air quality monitoring has revealed that particulate matter PM2.5 levels have exceeded the standard in 46 provinces, prompting health warnings and advisories for residents to limit outdoor activities. PM2.5 concentrations surpassed Thailand’s safety standards in various regions,…
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Thai-Cambodian joint operation successfully combats PM 2.5 crisis
A collaborative operation between the Thai and Cambodian governments was launched on March 6, to combat the PM 2.5 problem. This joint initiative was in line with the Thai government’s policy to proactively deal with PM 2.5 dust and hotspots in both nations. The Thai government has recognised the issue of PM 2.5 as a national crisis that requires immediate…
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Chiang Mai now world’s third most polluted city
Chiang Mai ranks as the third most polluted city globally amid a severe air quality crisis in northern Thailand, with particulate matter (PM)2.5 levels surging due to widespread forest fires. The situation, which peaked today, March 7, has triggered health concerns and advisories. Northern Thailand is grappling with a significant air pollution crisis. Today, the Air Pollution Crisis Resolution Centre…
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Bangkok’s ‘Digital Krathong’ received the Asia Pinnacle Awards in the Best Eco-Friendly Festival category
Aekvarunyoo Amrapala, BMA Spokesperson and Assistant Secretary to the Governor of Bangkok, represented Bangkok in receiving the Asia Pinnacle Awards in the Best Eco-Friendly Festival category from IFEA (ASIA) or The International Festivals and Events Association. It was given to the “Bangkok Digital Loy Krathong Festival” which Bangkok held for the first time at Khlong Ong Ang, Phra Nakhon District…
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Conservation factions call for review into Land Bridge initiative
A call for a thorough investigation of the government’s Land Bridge initiative has been made by Chumphon and Ranong conservation factions, citing concerns about potential corruption and negative societal impacts. This large-scale project, which has already encountered significant opposition, could lead to locals losing their homes and livelihoods, according to the conservationists. Yesterday, representatives from the Rak Phato Network and…
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Over 10 million Thais suffered illnesses linked to toxic air in 2023
More than 10 million Thai citizens sought medical treatment for illnesses connected to toxic air in 2023, as disclosed by authorities. The National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) disclosed this data amidst a toxic air pollution crisis in Thailand. The root of this crisis lies in widespread farm burning and forest fires, particularly rampant in the country’s northern regions, which…
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Thailand’s tourism trunkated: Captive elephant breeding exposed
Thailand stands accused of a sinister practice: the captive breeding of elephants for its lucrative tourism industry. But the horrors extend far beyond just elephants. Researchers have uncovered alarming findings, exposing the grim reality lurking behind the scenes of the wildlife entertainment industry. In a study conducted by World Animal Protection (WAP), the scope of the issue is laid bare.…
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Firefighter dead, two others battling for life in northern forest fire
In the relentless battle against raging forest fires sweeping through northern Thailand, tragedy struck as one firefighter lost his life while two others fight for their survival. The turmoil unfolded amidst 1,153 recorded hotspots in Mae Hong Son from March 1 to 3, with the epicentre of the blaze concentrated in the Pai district and surrounding conserved forests. Director-General Atthaphon…
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Mysterious green fireball lights up Thailand’s skies, sparking curiosity
A mysterious green fireball illuminated the skies last night across various regions in Thailand, prompting widespread online discussion and speculations about its origin. At approximately 9pm, numerous citizens reported sightings of a large, bright green light streaking through the sky, resembling a meteor or a falling star. The Thai Astronomical Society, a key authority in the field, acknowledged the event on…
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Thailand’s TQM Insurance introduces cover for PM2.5 pollution-related diseases
Health concerns over PM2.5 air pollution in Thailand are escalating, prompting insurance companies to develop policies that cover respiratory diseases attributed to the hazardous particulate matter. TQM Insurance Brokers, in collaboration with Bangkok Insurance (BKI), has introduced a novel health insurance policy specifically designed for ailments related to PM2.5 dust exposure. The policy stipulates that if an insured individual is…
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EV charging stations in Thailand
EV charging stations in Thailand are quickly growing as the country adopts electric vehicles to fight air pollution and lower fossil fuel use. The Thai government supports electric mobility, and the increasing demand for EVs is boosting the expansion of charging stations. This shift offers opportunities for local and international investors and helps consumers choose eco-friendly transportation. In this guide,…
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Mekong River’s diverse fish populations face extinction threat
The Mekong River, a lifeline stretching almost 5,000 kilometres from the Tibetan Plateau to the South China Sea, is under grave threat. A recent report reveals that unsustainable development is severely endangering the river’s health and diverse fish populations. Consequently, one-fifth of the fish species in this Southeast Asian lifeline are on the brink of extinction. The Mekong River plays…
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OAG rules in favor of DNP in Nang Rong waterfall tourism dispute
A recent ruling by a committee from the Office of Attorney-General (OAG) has settled a long-standing dispute between the Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) and the Nakhon Nayok Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO). The contention revolved around the 12-rai Nang Rong waterfall tourism compound located within the Khao Yai National Park. The OAG’s verdict favours the DNP,…
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Bangkok joins forces with Netherlands for eco-friendly urban mobility
Bangkok has coordinated with the Dutch concept to design Bangkok into a walkable and cycling city. Assoc. Prof. Wisanu Supsompon, along with Sanon Wangsrangboon, the Deputy Governors of Bangkok and Remco Johannes van Wijngaarden, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Thailand, attended a presentation of ideas and group activities discussion at the ACTIVE Workshop in Bangkok at…
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Thailand bids to host International Horticultural Expo 2029
Thailand has thrown its hat into the ring to host the International Horticultural Expo in 2029. The Southeast Asian nation has set its sights on attracting up to four million visitors during the four-month-long event. The Foreign Affairs Ministry spokeswoman, Kanchana Patarachoke, announced yesterday that the government has proposed the 25th global event to take place in Nakhon Ratchasima, with…
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Raging forest fires force closure of Thai-Cambodian Border park
Forest fires ablaze along the Thai-Cambodian border have ignited chaos, choking Khao Phra Wihan National Park in Sisaket province with clouds of thick smoke and dust particles, forcing a three-day shutdown. The infernos, wreaking havoc on the region’s flora and fauna, including monkeys, bats, and birds, have sparked concerns for both tourism and wildlife preservation. Sisaket Governor Anuphong Suksomnit, undertook…
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Phuket on course to become a top eco-industrial city by 2027
Earlier today, Phuket Provincial Hall played host to an informative workshop, aimed at fostering a comprehensive understanding of the plans to transform Phuket into a renowned eco-industrial city. This initiative was overseen by Phuket Vice Governor Sattha Thongkam, to disseminate knowledge on ideal methodologies for environmental preservation, protection, and restoration across diverse sectors. The workshop is deemed instrumental in aiding…
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Thailand’s hotels produce the most greenhouse gas in Asia
According to KResearch’s latest findings, Thai hotels are the leading culprits in greenhouse gas emissions, emitting a whopping 0.064 tonnes of carbon per guest each night, significantly higher than the regional and global averages of 0.057 and 0.019 tonnes respectively. Urging the government to intervene, KResearch emphasised the crucial role of sustainable practices in curbing this environmental menace. “While hotels…
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Thai Department of Commerce collaborates to stabilise fruit market
The Department of Commerce, in collaboration with global fruit importers, is examining the futures market and preparing to roll out an additional 35 initiatives. These initiatives are aimed at promoting Thai agricultural products, to maintain price stability throughout the year. Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai yesterday presided over a business-matching project’s launch. This project, centred on fresh and processed fruit and…
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Thailand’s tusker turnaround: TAT teams up with WWF for elephant-friendly travels
In a bid to promote responsible tourism and protect Thai elephants, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) continues to pledge unwavering support to the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Thailand and its Travel Ivory Free initiative. This collaborative effort aims to combat the illegal ivory market by encouraging travellers to refrain from purchasing ivory items during their visits. Recently,…
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How conservation efforts saved the ecosystem at Maya Bay
In 2016, Maya Bay welcomed a staggering 1.73 million visitors, but its popularity devastated its delicate ecosystem. Fast forward to 2024, and the once-threatened bay stands as a testament to the power of environmental stewardship. Dr Thon Thamrongnawasawat, a leading marine biologist explains that the target point for Maya Bay was to set up a system that would help us,…
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Global forests in crisis: Shocking decline revealed
In a staggering revelation, the world’s forests have undergone a drastic reduction of nearly 20 million square kilometres over the past 30 years, plunging from 42.03 million square kilometres in 1992 to 40.44 million square kilometres in 2021, as per the latest data from the World Bank. Attributing this alarming loss to the relentless encroachment of agriculture and industrialisation, the…
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Early morning tremors jolt Thailand with no reported damages
A tremor registering 3.4 on the Richter scale jolted the inhabitants of the Pai district in Mae Hong Son province in the early hours of this morning. Originating from a depth of 3 kilometres within the Mae Na Toeng tambon of Pai district, the earthquake was followed by four aftershocks. The Earthquake Observation Division of the Meteorological Department reported the…
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South Pattaya canal plagued by environmental catastrophe
In a recent session of the Pattaya City Council, member Metakrit Sunthornrot ignited concern over the persistent challenges besieging the South Pattaya Canal. Despite assurances of advancement, the situation continues to spiral, prompting intensified calls for immediate intervention. Metakrit underscored the city’s dedication to tackling environmental adversities, particularly in the crucial management of the South Pattaya Canal. Plans were detailed…
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Thai minister orders demolition of illicit resorts on Khao Yai farmland
Agriculture and Cooperatives Minister Thamanat Prompow mandated the demolition of illicit resorts and hotels erected on Sor Por Kor land around Khao Yai National Park, designated for agricultural use and granted to landless farmers. The minister’s mandate came as he pledged to rid the land of any illicit occupations. Thamanat Prompow announced yesterday that he has commissioned a fresh inspection…
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Sweeping fires devastate 30,000 rai of forest in Chiang Mai
Sweeping fires engulfed an estimated 30,000 rai (approximately 4,800 hectares) of forest across three districts in the province of Chiang Mai, reported local authorities. The flames, which sparked roughly a week ago, primarily ravaged the Ob Luang National Park. The districts of Hot, Chomg Thong, and Mae Cham are the most severely impacted, with the fires still ablaze and uncontained.…
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Bangkok’s air quality improves as PM2.5 levels drop
Bangkok’s populace can anticipate a breath of fresh air in the forthcoming week as the levels of PM2.5 pollutants are projected to undergo a downswing. AirBKK, the Air Quality Monitoring Centre of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), confirmed on a Sunday morning that the PM2.5 concentrations in the capital city were well below the 24-hour safe exposure threshold, which is…
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