Bangkok: The National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT), along with the Science, Technology, Innovation and Innovation (STI) and partners from the government and civil society sectors, have initiated discussions on the ongoing haze crisis in northern Thailand, focusing on its health impacts and sustainable solutions.
According to Thai News Agency, the NRCT, under the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, organized a seminar titled "Northern Thailand's Haze Crisis...Research and Innovation Have the Answer." The event was chaired by Dr. Wiparat Dee-ong, Director of the NRCT, and featured participation from key figures such as Dr. Jen Charnnarong and Mr. Pralong Damrongthai, who are involved in the "Thailand Safe from PM2.5" program. The seminar provided a platform for exchanging knowledge and discussing systematic solutions to the PM2.5 pollution crisis, emphasizing the use of research and innovation to address health impacts and pollution management.
Dr. Wiparat highlighted the critical PM2.5 pollution situation in northern Thailand, where many areas have reached red alert levels, severely impacting public health. The primary causes of the pollution include domestic and cross-border forest fires, along with geographical factors that trap dust. These conditions heighten the risk of respiratory illnesses and long-term health problems. The NRCT is committed to leveraging science, research, and innovation to address this issue comprehensively. The seminar outlined PM2.5 prevention measures, health impact mitigation strategies, and innovations like dust-free rooms. It also addressed challenges and offered solutions that involve proactive communication and public participation.
The event featured a panel discussion moderated by Associate Professor Dr. Ororn Phucharoen of Chiang Mai University, focusing on proactive PM2.5 management through research and innovation. Experts like Dr. Kessinee Unapamnuk from the Pollution Control Department, Ms. Korawipa Punnasiri from the Department of Health, and Professor Dr. Setth Sampattakul from Chiang Mai University shared insights on the current PM2.5 situation and prevention measures. Additionally, Mr. Paisit Panichkul and Ms. Aksornsiri Duangjaem provided perspectives on addressing the root causes of pollution and fostering public participation through initiatives like the community WARROOM platform "Be Aware of Dust, Be Aware of Fire."
The NRCT aspires to see its research and innovation efforts, along with contributions from the broader science, research, and innovation system, effectively implemented at community, local, and provincial levels. This approach aims to alleviate the PM2.5 problem, reduce health impacts, and minimize national damage in a tangible manner.