Bangkok: The Ministry of Interior, in collaboration with the Ministry of Industry, the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, and the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society, has formalized a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to collectively address the enduring issue of sugarcane burning and PM2.5 dust pollution. The newly signed MOU aims to implement proactive measures at the local level, enforce stricter laws, and restore clean air sustainably for the public.
According to Thai News Agency, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul presided over the signing ceremony. The event was witnessed by Minister of Industry Thanagorn Wangboonkhongchana, alongside other key figures, including Dr. Arsit Sampanrat, Dr. Natapol Rangsitpol, Professor Dr. Supachai Pathumnakul, and Pachara Anantasilsin, who represent the permanent secretaries of the involved ministries.
Mr. Anutin emphasized the importance of reducing agricultural crop burning and pollution nationwide, especially with environmental challenges such as winter onset, low atmospheric pressure, and transboundary haze. He highlighted the Ministry of Industry’s role in upgrading control measures for agricultural waste burning, which has already shown tangible success in reducing pollution.
He further stressed the government’s commitment to the green policy and the health of citizens, urging continued efforts towards clean air initiatives. “United we restore clean air to the Thai people – Good Air Throughout the New Year,” he declared, signaling additional cooperation with other related ministries in the future.
Dr. Arsit Sampanrat highlighted the significant impact of PM2.5 pollution on public health, stressing the Ministry of Interior’s responsibility to implement policies effectively at local levels. Efforts include strict control of sugarcane burning and public awareness campaigns to educate communities and promote behavioral change.
Mr. Nattapol Rangsitpol outlined the Ministry of Industry’s efforts through the Cane and Sugar Board, which involve enforcing compliance with the Cane and Sugar Act, promoting alternative sugarcane harvesting methods, and supporting technological innovations for farmers.
Professor Dr. Supachai Pathumnakul spoke about employing geospatial technology and satellite imagery to manage sugarcane cultivation areas, supporting policy formulation, and developing a system to monitor and predict sugarcane burning and PM2.5 spread.
Mr. Pachara Anantasilsin discussed the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society’s focus on artificial intelligence and big data to enhance sugarcane management, develop early warning systems, and create integrated digital platforms for better decision-making.
The MOU’s signing represents a significant step towards integrating government efforts to systematically address sugarcane burning and PM2.5 issues, employing technology, sharing expertise, and enhancing coordination at the local level to reduce environmental and public health impacts in Thailand.