Grassroots Path to Environmental Health and Battle Against Air Pollution in Thailand

Bangkok, 22 February 2024 – In Thailand, the chronic issue of air pollution, intensified by seasonal forest fires and agricultural practices, poses a significant threat to public health. Despite ongoing efforts to reduce emissions, which is the release of pollutants into the air from various sources including the industrial and transport sectors, the real impact of these initiatives is slowly becoming apparent. The introduction of protective measures, along with community innovations, are urgently needed for immediate health protection.

Recognizing this urgency, the Department of Health, the Ministry of Public Health of Thailand and the World Health Organization Thailand have come together to identify and share successful local strategies for mitigating the health impacts of air pollution. This collaboration aims to inspire a nationwide adoption of effective practices, fostering a culture of resilience and innovation at the community level.

Stories of Change: Grassroots Successes

At the heart of this narrative are the transformative actions taken by communities in Ping Khong, Mae Na, and Sop Pong sub-districts. These areas, situated in Thailand's upper northern regions, have become exemplars of how local initiatives can lead to meaningful environmental and public health improvements.

In Ping Khong, the community has shifted towards sustainable farming practices that maintain and improve the environment, ensure economic stability, and support social equity. Projects like the Huai Luek Royal Project, have played a crucial role in reducing air pollution from crop burning by encouraging farmers to move away from monoculture or the agriculture practice of growing a single crop in a farming system at any given time —particularly the slash-and-burn cultivation of corn—and towards diversified crops like Nam Dok Mai mangoes and avocados. This strategic reallocation of farming areas to less polluting crops marks a significant departure from traditional practices that usually involved burning. Digital marketing has further supported this environmental shift. Farmers like Mr. Komsit Laohang, who pioneered rose farming in 2019, have leveraged platforms such as Facebook and TikTok. This approach has enabled them to reach wider markets without relying on traditional practices, thereby contributing indirectly to air pollution reduction. The success in Ping Khong highlights a community-driven, holistic approach to environmental management. These strategies address air pollution while fostering economic stability and social equity, serving as a model for other communities facing similar challenges.

Mae Na has adopted a wide-ranging strategy to address environmental concerns effectively. This strategy includes carbon credit projects, enabling farmers to offset their carbon emissions by investing in local environmentally friendly initiatives. An example is the project supported by the Mae Fah Luang Foundation in collaboration with the Department of Forestry, focusing on organic farming practices within the reserved forest area of Doi Luang Chiang Mai. This project encourages farmers to adopt practices that reduce burning and fuel consumption. Farmers receive an annual incentive for engaging in activities aimed at wildfire prevention, such as reforestation and the establishment of water retention barriers to increase forest moisture levels. In addition, the community promotes bio-tourism, which supports tourism activities that contribute to the conservation of natural environments and the sustainable growth of local communities. Alongside these initiatives, Mae Na has implemented effective waste management practices, ensuring that waste is reduced, reused, and recycled instead of being burned, to minimize its impact on air pollution. These combined efforts showcase how diverse strategies can work together to enhance air quality and lead to healthier living conditions. The community's proactive stance on public health, evidenced by pollution risk monitoring and clean air initiatives, has led to a marked decrease in pollution-related health issues.

In Sop Pong, located in Pang Ma Pha District of Mae Hong Son, the community has embarked on a transformative journey towards environmental sustainability, serving as a beacon of innovation and commitment. Central to their strategy is the pioneering renewable energy project, which installed solar panels across community buildings and homes. A standout initiative, the "Green School Project," has revolutionized local education by powering schools entirely through solar energy, embedding sustainability principles in the next generation. This project not only reduces carbon emissions but also lowers energy costs, demonstrating a scalable model of eco-friendly infrastructure. Expanding its environmental efforts, Sop Pong introduced the "Sustainable Homestay Program," a novel approach to eco-tourism. This program connects tourists with families actively involved in organic farming, forest regeneration, and conservation practices. It offers hands-on experiences in sustainable agriculture, traditional weaving, and biodiversity preservation, directly contributing to the community's economic diversification and resilience. The program has been instrumental in raising awareness about environmental issues among visitors and residents alike, fostering a culture of conservation. These initiatives in Sop Pong are complemented by community-led waste management and water conservation workshops, engaging residents in discussions on reducing plastic use and preserving water resources. The collective action in Sop Pong, from renewable energy adoption to sustainable tourism and conservation education, reflects a comprehensive approach to environmental health. It addresses the immediate concerns of air pollution and lays the groundwork for a sustainable future, showcasing the power of community involvement and innovative practices in creating lasting environmental change.

A Global Beacon of Hope

Dr. Jos Vandelaer, the World Health Organization Representative to Thailand, has praised Thailand's community-led initiatives. "Thailand's approach," he notes, "illustrates the profound impact of grassroots actions in addressing environmental health challenges. It's a testament to the power of local solutions in fostering a healthier, more sustainable world."

Towards a Cleaner, Healthier Future

Thailand's journey in pioneering effective local solutions underscores the importance of community action and innovation in environmental health. By sharing these stories, Thailand not only champions the cause for cleaner air but also calls on individuals, policymakers, and sectors across the globe to take inspired actions. This narrative serves as a reminder that even the most daunting environmental challenges can be addressed through collective effort, resilience, and a commitment to sustainable living.

To read the full report: Resilient Communities for the Management and Prevention of Health Impacts from Air Pollution: Lessons learn from Thailand

Original article published on WHO