Bangkok: The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, Dr. Raweewan Phuridej, delivered a special lecture to the 68th class of the National Defence College, emphasizing fair environmental management for the benefit of the people.
According to Thai News Agency, Dr. Raweewan underscored the significance of environmental management not only for the benefit of citizens but also as a driver of sustainable economic growth for the country. Her lecture, titled “Global and Regional Environment in Relation to Natural Resources and Environment,” took place at the National Defence College Auditorium in Bangkok.
Dr. Raweewan highlighted the rapidly changing global and regional environmental conditions, identifying risks such as climate change and biodiversity loss as major concerns. She emphasized that natural resources and the environment are critical to the nation’s economic and social development. The Ministry’s role extends beyond conservation efforts, as it is instrumental in formulating national policies for the sustainable use of resources like land and forests.
Moreover, she pointed out the importance of maximizing biodiversity for the country’s benefit. Dr. Raweewan noted that several countries are implementing trade measures linked to environmental considerations, such as transboundary carbon pricing and the Economic Deforestation Restriction. These measures require proof that certain products do not originate from deforestation or illegal production processes.
The Ministry plans to update the boundaries of national parks and forest reserves as part of the integrated land improvement project, aiming to resolve land overlap issues and reduce human-forest conflicts. Dr. Raweewan also stressed the need for collective efforts to prevent and mitigate forest fires, haze, and PM2.5 pollution. Initiatives like the “Fight Dust” vehicle maintenance program, in collaboration with private sector partners, were highlighted as ways the public can contribute to reducing pollution and enjoy associated benefits.