air pollution PM2.5

  • Chiang Mai News

    Chiang Mai battles extensive forest fires and severe air pollution

    Chiang Mai, a city in the northern region of Thailand, is currently combating an alarming number of forest fires, with over 15 fires reported, some of which have been persisting for three days. As per the local authorities, 17 out of 153 hotspots were detected in the city yesterday. Five of these hotspots are located in the Chiang Dao district,…

  • Thailand News

    Three Thai provinces suffer PM2.5 levels, most enjoy good air

    As of this morning, only three provinces in northern and northeastern Thailand experienced seriously harmful levels of PM2.5 pollution, while the majority of the country enjoyed good air quality. Data from the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA) disclosed that Mae Hong Son, a province in the north, recorded a red level of particulate matter 2.5 micrometres or less…

  • Thailand Weather Updates

    Bangkok battles hazardous levels of PM2.5 dust pollution alone

    A robust surge of PM2.5, particulate matter 2.5 micrometres or less in diameter, descended upon the Thailand capital Bangkok this morning, setting the city apart as the only one battling seriously hazardous red-coded levels of fine dust pollution. This stark revelation came from the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA). The state space agency’s report at 10am highlighted the…

  • Environment News

    Chiang Mai to declare PM2.5 crisis areas as disaster relief zones

    Chiang Mai Governor Nirat Phongsitthithawon announced that any area experiencing a PM2.5 dust pollution crisis of Level 2 or higher would be declared a disaster relief area, entitling it to emergency aid. He explained that a Level 2 crisis is declared when the average amount of fine particulate matter smaller than 2.5 micrometres exceeds 150 microgrammes per cubic metre for…

  • Thailand News

    Thailand primes for haze mitigation ahead of Songkran festival

    Responding to the escalating haze crisis, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has directed all provinces in the upper north, including Chiang Mai, to prepare their operation centres. This step aims to mitigate air pollution during the forthcoming Songkran festival, which traditionally sees a surge in tourist arrivals. According to Deputy Prime Minister and Natural Resources and Environment Minister Phatcharavat Wongsuwan, these…

  • Northern Thailand News

    Rising lung cancer deaths in northern Thailand linked to PM2.5 pollution

    A surge in lung cancer mortality rates has been observed in the northern regions of Thailand, specifically in Chiang Mai and Lampang. The Faculty of Medicine at Chiang Mai University has linked this increase to the high levels of PM2.5 particles polluting the air. Chalerm Liewsisakul, an Associate Professor at the university, revealed that PM2.5 pollution has significantly worsened in…

  • Thailand News

    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…

  • Thailand News

    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…

  • Thailand News

    Bangkok enveloped in smog as PM2.5 levels hit new highs

    Bangkok citizens awoke yesterday to a pervasive burning smell as PM2.5 pollution levels soared across the city. Officials have identified three primary causes for the incident, which left many areas shrouded in a smoky haze and sparked widespread concern among residents. The unexpected spike in air pollution was primarily attributed to a shift in wind direction yesterday, March 20, as…

  • Business News

    Northern Thailand braces for severe air pollution crisis

    Northern Thailand, specifically the provinces of Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and Mae Hong Son, are bracing for severe PM2.5 air pollution. These areas, surrounded by mountains and hills, have previously been rated as the most polluted globally. The pollution crisis has strained the public healthcare system and forced locals to invest in air purifiers and face masks for protection. While…

  • Thailand News

    Thailand grapples with hazardous air quality in 30 provinces

    Air pollution has escalated to crisis levels in 30 provinces across Thailand, with PM2.5 readings exceeding the safety threshold, particularly affecting the health of residents in 11 areas. The highest recorded level of these harmful particulates in the country, at 146.0 microgrammes per cubic metre (µg/m³), was in Mae Hong Son today, March 20. The Air Pollution Solution and Communication…

  • Business News

    Thailand enforces ban on maize imports from field burning regions

    The Government of Thailand has given the green light to a ban on maize imports from regions notorious for field burning, a practice contributing to the annual smog crisis. This legislation is slated to come into force within the year. This action is part of a broader strategy to mitigate the recurring smog issue, which the government primarily attributes to…

  • Thailand News

    Forest fires in northern Thailand increase dangerous PM2.5 levels

    Forest fires in the northern provinces of Thailand have sparked an increase in atmospheric PM2.5 levels, leading to a stern warning from the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation. The department stated yesterday that severe legal consequences will be faced by those who illicitly ignite fires in forest lands. Department chief Athapol Charoenshunsa unveiled that they have recently…

  • Thailand News

    Thai govt resists declaring Chiang Mai a disaster zone despite pollution

    The Government of Thailand has chosen not to declare Chiang Mai a disaster zone despite escalating air pollution, according to Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. The decision was largely influenced by concerns that such a declaration could negatively impact the province’s tourism industry. The Bangkok-born PM voiced his government’s stance on platform X, explaining that declaring the province a disaster zone…

  • Thailand News

    Bangkok’s children gasp for air amidst pollution nightmare

    Children in Bangkok suffer daily from heavy air pollution, battling constant coughs and other possible respiratory illnesses. Pupils at Suan Lumphini School confront the harsh reality of their environment each morning as they assemble under coloured flags denoting the day’s air quality: a distressing routine with red signalling the worst and blue the best. Thailand grapples annually with dire air…

  • Health

    Thailand’s bold steps towards global clean air solutions

    As the global community confronts an escalating air pollution crisis, Thailand emerges as a pivotal player in the quest for environmental purity. The imperative for both environmental and public health considerations draws attention to this critical issue, prompting inquiries into the prospects of clean air in Thailand and worldwide. With pollution levels reaching alarming peaks in areas such as Chiang…

  • Thailand News

    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…

  • Health

    How industries can cut down deadly PM2.5: A clean air blueprint

    When you think about air pollution, industrial activities might not be the first thing that springs to mind. Yet, they play a significant role in the levels of PM2.5, those tiny particulate matters that can deeply penetrate your lungs. Factories, power plants, and various industrial processes release a substantial amount of these particles into the atmosphere, contributing to the air…

  • Thailand News

    Chiang Rai hits highest air pollution levels in Thailand

    Air pollution has reached critical levels in the northern and northeastern regions of Thailand, with 36 provinces reporting particulate matter (PM2.5) concentrations exceeding the safe standard, according to a recent report from the Air Pollution Control Department (APCD) under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment. The province of Chiang Rai recorded the highest levels in the country. Over the…

  • Health

    Navigate PM2.5 hazards with the ultimate mask guide

    With the rising concerns over air quality, particularly the presence of PM2.5 particles, finding the right mask has become more crucial than ever. These tiny particles, no more than 2.5 microns in size, can penetrate your lungs and even enter your bloodstream, posing significant health risks. They’re not just dust; they’re carriers of harmful substances like heavy metals and carcinogens.…

  • Health

    Beat PM2.5 in Thailand: Your ultimate guide to cleaner air

    Navigating the bustling streets of Thailand, you’re exposed to more than just the vibrant culture and tantalising cuisine. Hidden in the air are PM2.5 pollutants, microscopic adversaries that pose significant health risks. Understanding how to shield yourself from these tiny particles is crucial for both your short-term comfort and long-term health. The effects of PM2.5 can range from minor irritations,…

  • Health

    Thailand battles rising health risks from PM2.5 air pollution levels

    Ever wondered why the air in Thailand often feels thicker and harder to breathe? The culprit behind this is PM2.5, microscopic particles that can wreak havoc on your health. Thailand faces a significant challenge with high levels of PM2.5, particularly during certain times of the year. Understanding the causes behind these elevated levels is crucial for both residents and visitors…

  • Automotive

    How cars fuel PM2.5 pollution & what we can do about it

    When you think about air pollution, vehicles might not be the first thing that comes to mind. Yet, they play a significant role in the amount of PM2.5, those tiny particulate matters that can wreak havoc on your health. Research reveals that both diesel and gasoline-powered cars contribute to PM2.5 levels, but the impact varies depending on the vehicle’s age…

  • Thailand News

    Thai skies to sparkle: 30 aircraft to blitz pollution and sizzle summer heat

    In a move to combat air pollution and beat back the scorching summer heat, Thailand is unleashing a squadron of 30 aircraft across the nation. These aerial warriors aren’t armed with missiles but with the power to summon rain itself, in a bid to douse the flames of pollution and ease the parched lands. Artificial rain, also known as cloud…

  • Thailand News

    Royal Rainmaking Department struggles to control Bangkok PM2.5 levels

    The Royal Rainmaking and Agricultural Aviation Department admits its efforts to tackle sky-high PM2.5 levels in Bangkok are being thwarted by the haze drifting from Myanmar. The department’s Director-General, Supit Pithaktham, sprung into action after Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s directive to combat PM2.5 air pollution actively. Supit revealed that despite their daily endeavours since December to produce artificial rain, the intensified…

  • Thailand News

    Bangkok battles severe air quality dip prompting remote work

    Bangkok’s air quality dipped severely yesterday, February 14, with an escalating level of fine particulate matter, PM2.5, recorded in most districts. This hazardous air quality led the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) to urge both state agencies and private entities to facilitate remote working for their personnel today and tomorrow. According to an official statement issued by Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt,…

  • Thailand News

    Hazardous air pollution hits Bangkok and Thai provinces

    Bangkok and 11 other provinces in Thailand are currently grappling with hazardous air quality levels, exacerbated by PM2.5 particulate matter exceeding standard thresholds. The Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA), under the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, alongside the National Research Council of Thailand, the Pollution Control Department, Kasetsart University, and Chiang Mai University, are monitoring…

  • Thailand News

    BDMS and AstraZeneca partner for AI-driven lung cancer battle in Thailand

    The Bangkok Dusit Medical Services Public Company Limited (BDMS) recently announced a partnership with AstraZeneca (Thailand) Co Ltd. The partnership aims to leverage Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the fight against lung cancer, with the potential to significantly reduce mortality rates. The collaboration will initially be piloted at the Bangkok Cancer Hospital Wattanosoth, following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding…

  • Thailand News

    Thai PM Srettha and Cambodian PM engage in talks over air pollution crisis

    Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin declared his intention to engage in a crucial dialogue with Cambodian leader Hun Manet to tackle the alarming surge of transboundary air pollution. PM Srettha, expressing concern, revealed that a look at the satellite map shows that most of the relevant hotspots are in Cambodia, and the wind is blowing from the east. The MODIS satellite,…

  • Thailand News

    Thailand PM2.5 air pollution discussed at global summit

    In a historic first for the International Union of Forest Research Organisations (IUFRO), Thailand played host to the Role and Fate of Forest Ecosystems in a Changing World conference, where the PM2.5 situation was discussed. Over 80 experts from across the globe converged at King Mongkut University of Technology Thonburi (KMUTT) to unpack the dire implications of air pollution and…

  • Thailand News

    Bangkok battles severe PM2.5 pollution, health warnings issued

    Bangkok and several provinces across Thailand are currently grappling with dangerously high levels of PM2.5 particulate matter, exceeding standard pollution values and posing a significant health risk. Bangkok’s Phra Khanong district recorded the highest levels, urging the public to wear masks outdoors at all times for protection. The situation monitored hourly, is a collaborative effort involving the Ministry of Higher…

  • Thailand News

    Bangkok’s PM2.5 problem reflected in artist’s ‘Invisible Town’

    In the heart of Bangkok, an artistic revelation is set to rock the city as Invisible Town emerges at SAC Gallery. From this Saturday, January 27 until March 23, a solo exhibition by the talented Thidarat Chantachua, aka Mariem, promises to unearth the buried stories of Bangkok, inviting viewers to peer beyond the glossy surface and explore the unseen depths…

  • Thailand News

    Chiang Mai court demands PM2.5 emergency plan

    The Administrative Court in Chiang Mai demanded Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and the National Environment Board craft an emergency plan within the next 90 days. This decisive move comes as a response to the persistent threat of PM2.5 pollution plaguing northern provinces and signals a watershed moment for civil society in the region. The court’s verdict is a resounding call for…

  • Thailand News

    Clean Air Bills passed in Thai Parliament

    At the House of Representatives, lawmakers united across party lines to pass seven Clean Air bills after an exhilarating debate which concluded with an overwhelming 443 votes in favour and just one abstention. A coalition of government and opposition parties, alongside a civil society organisation, orchestrated this legislative symphony. To ensure meticulous examination, a formidable 39-member committee, comprising both government…

  • Thailand News

    Work from Bangkok home possible due to increased PM2.5 pollution

    The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) struck a deal with civic groups, proposing work from home plan for 50,000 of the city’s workers if PM2.5 intensity hits the red level for three consecutive days, declared Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt. The 57 year old city chief, in a strategic morning meeting with top-tier administrators, addressed the escalating PM2.5 dust crisis throttling the…

  • Thailand News

    Thailand and Cambodia join forces to tackle transboundary haze pollution

    Thailand Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin yesterday unveiled plans to form a joint task force with Cambodia to combat transboundary haze pollution. The decision was made ahead of a scheduled meeting with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet set to take place in Thailand on February 7. The leaders will undertake a joint study tour to Sa Kaeo province, an area severely impacted…

  • Thailand News

    Thai PM sparks a brighter future: Electric mass transit pledge to zap pollution in Chiang Mai

    Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin pledged to foster the development of electric mass transit systems as a solution to the persistent air pollution issues plaguing the northern province. 61 year old Thai prime minister noted that the fine particulate matter smaller than 2.5 microns (PM2.5) levels had considerably decreased since his last visit on November 28 of the previous year. The…