Bangkok: The Thailand Environment Institute (TEI) has called on voters to scrutinize the environmental policies of political parties as the nation approaches the 2026 election. The institute is advocating for government amendments to support Green Investment and emphasizes the importance of youth taking an active role in shaping the future.
According to Thai News Agency, the TEI organized a seminar titled "The Future of Thailand's Environment After the Election" as part of the "TEI: Thai Envi Next: Unveiling Environmental Challenges with Political Parties Before the 2026 Election" event. The seminar, chaired by Dr. Wijarn Simachaya, Director of the TEI, provided a platform for academics, executives, and youth representatives to discuss the political landscape in the final stages before the election.
Professor Dr. Chamlong Phoboon from the National Institute of Development Administration highlighted the need to evaluate environmental policies based on four dimensions: addressing the issues, clarity, feasibility, and credibility. He emphasized the importance of distinguishing between urgent environmental issues such as natural disasters and PM2.5 pollution, and long-term issues like climate change and biodiversity.
Professor Dr. Pisut Piermonkul of Chulalongkorn University proposed a three-level development model for sustainability, stressing the need to incorporate the "Sufficiency Economy Philosophy" and prioritize "building people" before systems. He identified Thailand's weakness in neglecting these foundational principles.
Mr. Phiphith Anekniithi from Kasikornbank pointed out the severe budget constraints facing national development, with only about 10% available for investment. He noted the economic threat posed by climate change, which could reduce Thailand's GDP by 3-4%. He advocated for Blended Finance to attract investment and urged the government to amend laws to facilitate green investment.
Ms. Kanrawee Srisangsap of the Global Youth Biodiversity Network for Thailand stressed the impact of climate change and biodiversity on youth. She called for youth to be "partners" in decision-making and emphasized the need for transformative education to empower them.
Dr. Wijarn concluded the seminar by emphasizing the necessity of strong legislative support for environmental plans. He advocated for the enactment of crucial laws such as the Clean Air Act and the Climate Change Act, and for decentralizing power and budgets to local authorities, leveraging Big Data for informed decision-making.