Bangkok: Civil society groups, along with MP Kamontharat Kittisuntornsakul of the People's Party, are urging the government to expedite the revival of the Pollutant Reporting and Disclosure Act (PRTR) by bringing the draft bill before parliament for its second and third readings. The groups emphasize the need to address the root causes of environmental and pollution issues through sustainable legislation.

According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Kamontharat Kittisuntornsakul, along with Ms. Penchom Saetang, Director of the Ecological Restoration Foundation, and other environmental networks in Thailand, held a press conference to highlight the urgency of returning the PRTR draft to parliament. They stressed the importance of this legislation in effectively controlling pollution and creating a comprehensive database of hazardous chemicals in Thailand. Ms. Kittisuntornsakul noted the government's lack of clarity regarding its commitment to pollution prevention and control, despite its stated policy to achieve the Net Zero goal.

The call for action is particularly significant for communities in regions severely affected by pollution, such as Thailand's Eastern region. The groups expressed hope that progressive environmental laws could simultaneously promote industry and improve quality of life. They urged the government not to delay the process, which would necessitate starting the legislative process from scratch, potentially hindering progress in pollution control and environmental quality improvement.

The groups appealed to Mr. Suchart Chomklin, Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, to ensure the PRTR bill is reconsidered by Parliament, thereby establishing a systematic and sustainable management system for hazardous chemicals. They hope to receive positive news from the Cabinet before May 12th and called on the media and public to monitor the draft law's progress closely.