Five Conservation Sites in Bangkok for Volunteer Work
Bangkok/ Terra/ Sustainability

Five Conservation Sites and Sanctuaries in Bangkok for Volunteer Work

Instagram Lanta Animal Welfare Photo by Instagram/Lanta Animal Welfare

Volunteering presents an opportunity to not just contribute to the well-being of our planet and its inhabitants but also to forge connections.

In Bangkok, there are many places dedicated to preserving wildlife and ecosystems. These sites serve a crucial purpose in safeguarding biodiversity and promoting sustainable practices. Whether you’re looking to participate in a one-time event or integrate regular volunteering into your routine, Bangkok offers several conservation sites that might pique your interest.

Samui Elephant Haven

Established in 2018, the Thai Elephant Conservation Centre is one of the biggest elephant sanctuaries in Thailand. Nestled in the heart of Koh Samui, this conservation hub provides a haven for 14 rescued elephants. Here, these majestic creatures roam freely, receiving dedicated care from their keepers while living in a setting akin to the wild. If you’re looking to volunteer, you may join Samui Elephant Haven’s full-day volunteer program, which allows visitors to interact with the elephants for one whole day. Contact +66 95 628 6160.

Location: Samui Elephant Haven, 137/31 Koh Samui Chang Wat Surat Thani 84320, Thailand

WFFT Wildlife Rescue Centre

The WFFT Wildlife Rescue Centre provides a sanctuary where animals can roam and live in a natural environment. While some of the animals who receive proper care are eventually released back into the wild, many require immediate attention and remain at the centre for ongoing care.

As of writing, the site has more than 1,000 rescued animals, including elephants, leopards, monkeys, and exotic birds. For volunteer work, guests can anticipate spending eight to nine hours at the site, during which they can assist with feeding and engage in various activities. For inquiries, contact +66 (0)32 706 906.

Location: WFFT Wildlife Rescue Centre, 108 Moo 6, Tambon Thamairuak, Amphoe Thayang, 76130 Phetchaburi, Thailand

Big Blue Conservation

Situated on Koh Tao Island, Big Blue Conservation is dedicated to the preservation of marine life and ecosystems in Thailand. From diving activities to seminars and beach clean-up events, this conservation site hosts various projects aimed at sustaining the local economy and protecting the island’s tourism industry.

Visitors to Koh Tao Island have the opportunity to enroll in short courses offered by Big Blue Conservation, providing them with the necessary knowledge to contribute to the preservation of marine life.

Location: Big Blue Conservation, 9/98 Moo 1, Koh Tao, Surat Thani, Thailand, 84360

Rescue Paws Thailand

With the mission to “reduce the overpopulation of dogs and cats in Thailand,” Rescue Paws Thailand is one of the most trusted conservation sites in Thailand. The center operates a community outreach program, sending its team to locations with stray dogs and cats to offer care and food assistance.

You can support this initiative by donating through this link. Moreover, there’s a volunteer program available where you can spend a day at the site to engage in various educational activities.

Location: Rescue Paws Thailand, 65 Khao Tao Temple, Nong Kae, Hua Hin District, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Thailand 77110

Lanta Animal Welfare

A non-profit charity based in South West Thailand, Lanta Animal Welfare was established in 2005 by Junie Kovacs to help “end the suffering of homeless, abused, and injured animals on Koh Lanta. As of writing, the centre has provided care for more than 15,000 animals, all thanks to the support given by its volunteers and partner organisations.

If you’re interested in volunteering, expect to participate directly in activities like animal feeding, assisting staff with administering medication to animals, and maintaining cleanliness by cleaning their habitats and waste. You may apply through this link. For questions and concerns, contact Lanta Animal Welfare at +66 84 304 4331.

Location: Lanta Animal Welfare, 629, Tambon Sala Dan, Amphoe Ko Lanta, Chang Wat Krabi 81150, Thailand

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This Week's Events In Bangkok View more

This Week's Events In Bangkok

Bangkok/ Terra/ What's On

Wonderfruit 2024: A Comprehensive Guide to Thailand’s Iconic Festival

Wonderfruit The Fields

Returning for its ninth edition from Dec. 12-16, Wonderfruit 2024 transforms The Fields at Siam Country Club, Chonburi into a vibrant celebration of art, culture, music, and nature. Over 99 hours, attendees (or the so-called Wonderers) are invited to explore thoughtfully curated experiences spanning music, wellness, architecture, and cuisine — all crafted to foster a deeper connection to mind, nature, and community.

Step into a world where rituals and performances bring cultural practices to life, and let your curiosity guide you through moments of awe and inspiration! Whether it's through immersive installations, mindful workshops, or unforgettable musical acts, let our ultimate guide help you make the most of your festival experience.

What to Expect: Art, Music, Nature, Wellness, & More

Wonderfruit 2024 offers a diverse array of stages and spaces, each designed to immerse Wonderers in unique experiences that blend music, art, culture, and nature. From serene sanctuaries and lively cultural villages to hidden dance havens and culinary explorations, these stages invite festivalgoers to connect deeply with themselves, each other, and the surrounding environment.

Here's a glimpse into the many vibrant spaces awaiting discovery at Wonderfruit:

  • Creature Stage: Playful performances with a renewed spirit, offering diverse sounds and experiences to inspire wonder.
  • Ancestral Forest: A space for intimate performances, workshops, art, and a medicinal garden enriched with Thai herbs and indigenous wisdom.
  • Wonder Kitchen: Main dining venue with themed feasts focused on tradition, food as medicine, and sustainability.
  • Enfold: Serene courtyard for immersive live performances and ambient soundscapes powered by Sonos Libra.
  • Dhyana: A realm of universal rituals and workshops led by master practitioners, exploring offerings, mantras, and symbolic gestures.
  • Ziggurat with Singha: Open-air beer garden with live music, cocktails, and a laid-back, friendly vibe.
  • Forbidden Fruit: Lakeside dance haven with cosmic disco under a starlit, fabric-enclosed space.
  • The Quarry: Jungle retreat with synthy grooves, immersive lights, and a nature-filled all-night music experience.
  • Molam World: Celebration of Isaan culture with art, food, and traditional music in a lively village setting.
  • The Unconditional Space: Sanctuary for rituals and workshops that explore connection and the interconnectedness of beings.
  • 428: Multi-sensory space connecting elements through dynamic experiences.
  • Neramit: Creative lab and culture hub with music from regional selectors sharing rare sonic treasures.
  • Solar Village: Architectural gathering point to celebrate sunrise and sunset in harmony with nature’s rhythm.

For a complete list of spaces, workshops and activities, performers, and more, visit Wonderfruit’s website: Experiences and Directory.

Where to Buy Tickets and How Much

While advance sales for the 5-Day Full Pass and Weekend Pass are already sold out, interested festivalgoers can still purchase at-door tickets for THB20,000 (Full Pass) and THB15,000 (Weekend Pass).

For those seeking a shorter experience, the Sunday Pass (THB5,000) offers single-day access from 8 AM on Dec. 15, along with a Monday morning sunrise. If you have young (13 to 19 years old) or furry companions, a Teen Pass (THB4,500) and a Dog Pass (THB1,000) are available. ID verification is required for teens, while dogs of any size are welcome.

Wonderfruit with drummers and a kid
Photo by Website/Wonderfruit

Passes are available for purchase via Ticketmelon. All ticket sales are final and can’t be resold. Upgrades can be made at the Box Office. Children under 13 are free. Wonderfruit welcomes all ages, but anyone aged 12 and below must be accompanied by a parent, legal guardian, or nominated guardian.

Note: If you still have a Wonderfruit 2020 ticket, this is your final chance to use it. Check your e-mail from Ticketmelon for details. For lost tickets or account issues, contact [email protected].

Ticket Pre-registration Process

Wonderfruit pre-registered tickets lane
Photo by Website/Wonderfruit

All tickets must be registered. If you want to save time and make the most of your festival experience, it’s best to pre-register your Wonderfruit ticket and accommodation (if applicable). This is your last chance to make changes and corrections if you’ve bought more than one ticket as your full name (as shown on your ID) will be checked at each access and security points.

What’s more, Wonderfruit is cashless and uses an RFID wristband that acts as a virtual wallet. By pre-registering your ticket, you can pre-load a balance on your wristband and don’t have to wait in line for too long! Take note, though, that credit card top-ups are non-refundable. If you run out of balance and want to top-up with cash, there are ATMs on site.

On-site Accommodations and Ticket Bundles

There are three on-site accommodations available for Wonderers of every type: Boutique Camping, Slow Wonder, and General Camping.

Boutique Camping places you right in the heart of The Fields with shaded tents. A five-day, four-night stay includes access to a 24-hour reception, a dedicated restaurant and bar, and custom-built restrooms. Rates vary based on the chosen setup, but shared tents (female only or co-ed) for solo Wonderers are now available starting at THB4,500 per night.

Wonderfruit Bell Tents
Website/Wonderfruit

Slow Wonder Cabins offer a 27-sqm air-conditioned space with a private bathroom and premium bedding by Omazz. Its minimalist design creates a peaceful retreat within The Fields, complemented by a 24-hour concierge and access to Slow Wonder Village. Each cabin costs THB50,000 per night.

Wonderfruit cabins
Website/Wonderfruit

General Camping is a budget-friendly option, priced at THB275 per night, that invites you to bring your own tent (no rentals) and camping gear. The special camping village has communal restrooms and showers, with the perfect blend of nature and a sense of community.

If you want to stay off-site, Wonderfruit has teamed up with Klook to offer flexible booking and bundled packages with select hotels in Pattaya and Jomtien. Festivalgoers can book curated hotel options with or without Wonderfruit tickets included, plus enjoy a complimentary one-way transfer between Bangkok and Pattaya for select hotel stays. Terms and conditions apply.

What to Bring and What NOT to Bring

Wonderfruit has been plastic-free since 2019, so all festivalgoers are expected to bring their own reusable cup or flask. No single-use cups. Outside drinks (including alcohol) aren’t allowed, and all beverages must be emptied during screening. Water refill stations will be available around The Fields for free.

If you don’t have any kind of drink container with you, you can get a Wonder Cup for THB650. Crafted from rice and coconut husk by Sonite, this 16-ounce cup can be bought at the merch booth or at any bar or pre-ordered for pickup at the Box Office.

Wonderfruit reusable Wonder Cup
Website/Wonderfruit

Food is also restricted, with allowances only for those with dietary needs and those bringing milk formula for their young ones.

Other essentials you should pack are tissues and wet wipes to stay fresh and handle any mess (from meals to restroom trips), and sunscreens and a pair of sunglasses to battle Thailand’s tropical heat. While you’re at it, bringing a mosquito spray is also ideal to keep bugs away.

While many of us love to document important life events like Wonderfruit, bringing drones and selfie sticks aren’t allowed. Professional camera equipment like DSLR cameras is allowed, but tripods and extra lenses will need approval.

Lastly, don’t forget your ID (digital or physical copy) as you need to show it every time even if you already have a wristband.

How to Get to The Fields

Wonderfruit 2024 will take place at The Fields at Siam Country Club in Chonburi, just outside Pattaya. If you’re driving from Bangkok, take Route 36 towards Rayong and follow the signs for “Siam Country Club.” If you’re coming from Pattaya South, head towards Wat Huai Yai, turn before Thepphabut, and follow the “Mooban Wonder” signs to The Fields. You can also use Google Maps (type: Wonderfruit) to guide you to the venue.

Parking is located outside the Main Entrance and Box Office. To manage congestion, prevent price gouging, and ensure a safer experience for everyone, it's best to pay for a pre-booked parking worth THB250 (per entry). You can also get a four-entry bundle for THB800, which a 20% discount if you're planning multiple trips.

On-site parking will be open from Dec. 12-16 at THB350 per entry (subject to availability). Accepted payments on-site are QR code or PromptPay only. Credit cards and cash will not be accepted. Those without a pre-booked pass risk being turned away if the lot reaches capacity.

Wonderfruit 2024 map
Facebook/Wonderfruit

For convenient access, an unlimited shuttle service is available with a Shuttle Pass. The pass gives unlimited rides between official drop-off and pick-up points in Jomtien (MÖVENPICK and Centara Life Hotel) and Pattaya (Cosi and Dusit Thani Hotel). Phase 1 passes are priced at THB1,500 (available until Nov. 30), while Phase 2 passes are subject to availability and are priced at THB2,400 (until Dec. 1-11). Single-trip tickets are also available on-site for THB350, but seating isn’t guaranteed.

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Bangkok/ Terra/ Nature

Bangkok to Go Greener With 130 New Parks, More Green Spaces by 2026

Bangkok to Go Greener With 130 New Parks More Green Spaces by 2026 Photo by Facebook/Bangkok Metropolitan Administration

Following their plans to create more green spaces in Bangkok with “pocket parks,” the city government now targets a transition from their predecessor’s Green Bangkok 2030 initiative with new, expanded goals.

According to a report, Bangkok’s governor, Chadchart Sittipunt, is now eyeing to build 130 new parks and double up on their one million tree-planting goal, bringing the target number of trees planted to two million by 2026.

These efforts are part of Chadchart’s “15-minute city” initiative, which aims to ensure that the city’s residents are able to walk to schools, restaurants, malls, and green spaces, within a 15-minute period.

Pornphrom Vikitsreth, an advisor to Governor Chadchart, said that selecting areas where the parks will be situated includes analyzing the need for parks in certain spaces, especially in densely populated areas near community centers, engaging the community to identify what they need, and designing the parks based on the public’s input.

“We want to get them to come and be a part of the process from the beginning. And then once the park is open, they feel like they are the owner,” said Pornphrom.

Learn more about Bangkok’s green initiatives and how you can participate by visiting Greener Bangkok’s website.

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Bangkok/ Terra/ What's On

The Peninsula Bangkok Invites the Public to Check the ‘Sanctuary Within’

The Peninsula Bangkok Sanctuary Within Exhibit Photo by Website/The Peninsula Bangkok

In line with The Peninsula Bangkok’s Art in Resonance program, they are hosting another exhibition called “Sanctuary Within” in partnership with UOB Thailand, which features the stunning works of textile artist Jarupatcha Achavasmit.

The exhibit's vision is to blend creative expression with sustainable practices; Jarupatcha makes use of the hotel’s discarded items to create art pieces. During the exhibit, guests can peak at the three installations displayed in the main lobby area: the Floating Forest, Cotton Field, and Paper Sky.

The Floating Forest is a glittering, silvery floating sculpture made with over 12,000 recycled meticulously cleaned, and cut bathroom amenity containers from the hotel, along with recycled aluminum and PET bottles. It is shaped like ginkgo leaves symbolizing growth and new beginnings.

Cotton Field, on the other hand, is a woven fabric installation crafted from what used to be the hotel's bed linen made out of the finest Egyptian cotton. They underwent a delicate process of dyeing and painting with help from Thai artist Ake Atthasumpunna to create a beautiful art display.

Lastly, Paper Sky repurposed over a hundred kilograms of The Peninsula Bangkok’s used office paper. These were shredded and sent to artisans in Chiang Rai province to be transformed into a new paper that incorporates 50% bamboo fiber. Collaborating with Ake once again, this freshly recycled paper was colored and painted using natural dyes. The paper was then deconstructed and uniquely woven by Jarupatcha into an abstract art piece that merges sustainability with creativity.

The “Sanctuary Within” exhibit is open to the public and will be on view until Aug. 31. For more information, follow The Peninsula Bangkok’s Facebook and Instagram page.

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Bangkok/ Terra/ Shopping

10 Thrift Shops in Bangkok for a Budget-Friendly Shopping Spree

Header

If you’re on the hunt to find a unique statement piece for your wardrobe, or your inner eco-warrior is calling for you to reduce your carbon footprint with a sustainable and ethical approach towards fashion, then thrift shopping is the way to go!

Not only are thrift shops in Bangkok an affordable alternative to traditional retail stores, but they also allow you to break the cycle of fast fashion that is harmful to our environment. And of course, a little revamp might just add a whole lot of style and a little history to your wardrobe, too. With thrift shopping, you'll not only be making a bold fashion statement, but also taking a step to preserve our planet. 

Thrift shopping in the city feels like a treasure hunt, where you should anticipate the unexpected.  Calling all savvy bargain hunters and fashion-forward explorers, Bangkok is a treasure trove of all vintage delights, and like they say you will actually discover “hidden gems” that you wouldn’t find in a retail store. There’s lots to scour in the city so to make it easier for you, we’ve put together a list of 10 places in Bangkok you could visit to shop 'til you drop. 

Chatuchak Market

Chatuchak Market

Chatuchak Market, also known as JJ Market, is a shopper's haven and a must-visit flea market for locals and tourists alike. It's hard to resist given there are over 1,000 vendors at Chatuchak offering an extensive range of products from books, handmade jewelry, clothing, handicrafts, antiques, plants, furniture, décor, and much more.

The best part – you also have delicious street food to keep you company as you browse. Whether you’re searching for something street-style, edgy, vintage, bohemian, or retro, this is the place to be. While Chatuchak Market is more of a weekend to-do adventure, it’s also ideal to go on a Friday evening as the market opens from 6 pm until midnight. Grab your favorite NFL cap at Winchesters, or go denim hunting at Zone 5. As the largest market in Thailand and within Asia, Chatuchak Market is an unmissable shopping experience.

Location: Chatuchak Market, 587, 10 Kamphaeng Phet 2 Rd, Khwaeng Chatuchak, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900

Eco Ring

Eco Ring

Eco Ring is all about serving high-quality Japanese imports with four different locations in the city to explore. Shoppers will be delighted to purchase high-fashion pieces for a bargain price, like Miu Miu handbags, Alexander Mc Queen sneakers, or even Hermes watches. In addition to designer pieces, they also stock a range of homeware, musical instruments, ceramics, and more.

It’s the perfect sustainable shopping destination to grab the latest fashionable item at a lower price than the original. If you’re planning to sell some items, Eco Ring is open to all pre-loved designer pieces so you can upgrade your wardrobe while also earning some extra cash.

Location: Eco Ring, 3, 8 Sukhumvit 49 Khlong Tan Nuea, Watthana, Bangkok 10110

(Un) FASHION Vintage Collection

Un FASHION Vintage Collection

As soon as you enter (Un) FASHION Vintage Collection, you are greeted with the strong aroma of high-quality leather. Vintage aficionados, this store houses a selection of well-preserved quality items that can take you on a journey back in time, from the roaring 20s to the retro 80s. Stroll through their racks and you’ll find a great collection of leather boots, handbags, jewelry, and hats, for both women and men.

The store imports rare and collectible items monthly from Europe and Japan, so there's always something new to discover. For a complete vintage experience, you can also visit their in-house café located next door to sip on a latte and indulge in some pastries, after going on a shopping spree. 

Location: (un) FASHION Vintage Collection, 3 Ekkamai 10 Alley, Khlong Tan Nuea, Watthana, Bangkok 10110

Pattavikorn New Market

Pattavikorn New Market

Have you ever heard the phrase "a penny saved is a penny earned"? Well, Pattavikorn New Market is the perfect example of why that statement holds true. Get ready to dive into a mountain of vintage and second-hand items at wallet-friendly prices and you can start shopping as low as THB10.

Pattavikorn gives you a complete local traditional market experience where bargaining is a no-brainer. Expect a collection of clothes, kitchenware, automobile parts, classic film cameras, old comic books, and even lucky Buddhist amulets. 

Address: Pattavikorn New Market, Soi Nawamin 72, Nuanchan, Bueng Kum, Bangkok 10230

Shinjuku Outlet 

Shinjuku Outlet

Isn’t it frustrating when you buy something and when you try it at home, it doesn’t fit right? Shinjuku Outlet is one of those rare thrift shops in Bangkok that allows you to try before you buy.

Delve into some trendy second-hand clothing from Japan, Korea, and the U.S. What's more, shoppers are charged based on the weight of the items they select, with a price range of THB30-39 per 100 grams. Alternatively, you can grab three pieces of clothing for the price of THB100.

Location: Shinjuku Outlet, 191 185 Lat Phrao Rd, Saphansong, Wang Thonglang, Bangkok 10310

Horse Unit

Horse Unit

Fancy donning a cool utilitarian look? You rarely find such a thrift store that houses cool vintage workwear and military-style attires like a 60s Indian Para-Commando Force “Palm Frond Camo” trousers or a WWII U.S. Army Sterling Ring.

Horse Unit, situated inside an old warehouse on Charoen Krung, sells t-shirts, jackets, cargo pants, canvas totes, boots, and even ex-military watches and accessories. For those who fancy unique interiors, there’s vintage furniture and film cameras to add to your collection. Keep in mind that certain rare finds could be costly so reserve some extra budget if you plan to treat yourself. 

Location: Warehouse 30, 48-58 Soi Charoenkrung 30, Charoenkrung Road, Bangrak, Bangkok 10500, Bangkok, Thailand, Bangkok

Treasure Factory

Treasure Factory

Just like its namesake, Treasure Factory brims with an array of vintage fashion items that will leave you astonished. Boasting three outlets in Bangkok, Treasure Factory presents fashionable clothing, bags, accessories, and footwear.

Shoppers can anticipate browsing coveted brands like Prada, Bao Bao Issey Miyake, and Bottega Veneta, to name a few. If you’re a gadget lover, high-quality electronics are also available in their store. And if you’re looking to find a second home for your own second-hand goods, they offer great deals here.

Location: Treasure Factory, 29 Soi Sukhumvit 39, Khlong Tan Nuea, Watthana, Bangkok 10110, Thailand

Srinagarindra Train Night Market (Talad Rod Fai Market)

Srinagarindra Train Night Market (Talad Rod Fai Market)

Classic, retro, and vibrant. Srinagarindra Train Night Market is an open-air market that should be on your radar when in Bangkok. Located behind Seacon Square, this vintage haven has over 2,000 stalls selling antiques and vintage memorabilia from bygone eras, including retro clothing, footwear, accessories, handicrafts, electronics, toys, and more.

Motor enthusiasts will be thrilled to spot some charming vintage vehicles like Volkswagen and Chevys. Besides the outdoor flea market, there's also an attractive indoor train station-themed market to explore.

Location: Srinagarindra Train Night Market, 1 4 Srinagarindra Rd, Nong Bon, Prawet, Bangkok 10250

BangSue Junction

BangSue Junction

NBA jerseys from the 90s to 2000s? Yes. Vintage cowboy boots and hassle? Yes. BangSue Junction is home to an eclectic mix of oh-so-interesting items perfect for pop culture lovers and nostalgia junkies who are seeking to complete their eclectic collection. 

This six-story massive center is located right opposite Chatuchak Night Market, so you can easily spend the entire day shopping in the neighborhood. Whether it’s streetwear brands like Carhartt and Stussy or more esteemed brands like Polo Ralph Lauren and Harley Davidson, there’s something for everyone at BangSue Junction. Apart from apparel, they’ve also got furniture, crafts, film cameras, and gorgeous homeware like China-bone crockery to dress up your abode. 

Location: BangSue Junction, 511 Kamphaeng Phet 2 Rd, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900

Sakura: Japan Second-Hand Market

Sakura: Japan Second-Hand Market

Looking for unique and quirky collectibles on top of that wardrobe upgrade? Interestingly, Sakura warehouse has an impressive collection of second-hand goods imported from Japan offering a wide variety of items, ranging from Japanese-style decor to kitchenware, showpieces, and soft toys.

What's more, their pricing system is based on the weight of an item, starting at just THB50 per kilogram. However, keep in mind there are certain items with fixed prices. Feast your eyes on their collection of Japanese-style decor, kitchenware, showpieces, and soft toys. Take a look and see what catches your eye!

Location: Sakura, 273 Soi Sukhumvit 50, Sukhumvit Road, Phra Khanong, Khlong Toei, Bangkok 10110

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Bangkok/ Terra/ Climate Change

Explainer: Why Is Thailand Experiencing Bad Air Quality Right Now?

The capital city of Thailand is full of PM2 5 dust

Apart from Thailand's sweltering temperatures, air pollution is another one of the city's concerns. If you have been to Bangkok, chances are you’ve noticed its hazy skyline and particulate matter floating in the air.

On Feb. 15, Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt urged city employees to work from home as a precaution from Thailand’s “largest invisible killer” – the hazardous air pollutants that veiled the Thai capital, the Bangkok Post reported.

According to the live map of monitoring website IQAir on May 6, Bangkok reached an “unhealthy” air quality index. The Prawet District and Thawi Wanarom Park logged the highest levels of the “most polluted air quality stations” at 173 US Air Quality Index (US AQI).

The “unhealthy” level of air quality indicates the potential impact on an individual’s health. People may experience symptoms such as coughing, difficulty breathing, and eye irritation. On the other hand, people who need special health care or are asthmatics are strictly advised to avoid outdoor activities as they might endure coughing, dyspnea, eye inflammation, chest tightness, headache, irregular heartbeat, nausea, and fatigue.

Most polluted cities in Thailand
Screengrab from IQAir on May 6, 2024

In a bid to further understand the importance of maintaining high air quality standards, here’s an overview of the existing state of air pollution in Thailand.

Read more: 7 Foolproof Steps to Improve Air Quality at Home

What are PM2.5 Particles?

Thailand hazy skyline

Airborne particulate matter, also called as fine particulate matter (PM), is a concerning pollutant composed of a complex mixture of microscopic chemical compositions such as inorganic ions, metallic compounds, elemental carbon, organic compounds, and even compounds from the Earth’s crust. These substances come from vehicle emissions, industrial processes, construction activities, and natural phenomena like wildfires and dust storms.

Measuring 2.5 micrometres, this particle, when inhaled, can penetrate deep into the lung barrier and enter the bloodstream. Prolonged exposure to PM2.5 may cause respiratory diseases, cardiovascular complications, and other detrimental health effects.

Based on the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines, the annual average concentrations of PM2.5 should not exceed 5 µg/m3, while 24-hour average exposures should not exceed 15 µg/m3 for more than three to four days each year.

These adverse effects can affect vulnerable population including the elderly with chronic heart or lung diseases, as well as children and individuals suffering from asthma, according to a study via the California Air Resources Board.

In 2019, there were over 32,200 premature deaths due to air pollution in Thailand, reducing average life expectancy by two years. Four years later, the numbers flocked to 2.4 million Thai residents seeking treatment for smog-related illnesses.

Major Air Polluters

Cars in Thailand

There are various factors that contribute to air pollution in Thailand, with agricultural and industrial emissions being the main contributors. These practices exacerbated industrial emissions and vehicle exhaust fumes in Thailand in the first quarter of the year.

In terms of industrialization, Thailand is the 12th largest automobile producer in the world and a leading producer of hard disk drives, making it a major exporter of high-value goods, ranking 14th in the world. These vehicles emit pollutants, such as carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides (NOx), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and particulate matter (PM) as byproducts of combustion, coupled with transportation and energy generation contribute to air pollution in the kingdom and other industrialized regions.

As for agricultural emissions, Thailand engages in the "slash and burn" practice during forest fires and crop-burning activities from December to April. This is when farmers burn remaining vegetation on their land to create newly cleared soil rich with nutrients. These fires result in hazardous air pollution.

Government Initiatives

The Thai government has greenlit the Draft Management for Clean Air Act (“Clean Air Bill”) proposed on Nov. 28, 2023. While Thailand addresses air quality management within its current legal framework, there has been no comprehensive legislation that strongly focuses on air quality control in its entirety.

Under the Clean Air Act, it extends not only the management, but also the regulation of activities and point sources, such as factories and businesses, that potentially generate air pollution. The Act mandates the Pollution Control Department provide an annual report on air pollution at national, regional, and provincial levels. Those who fail to comply with the air pollution control standards are subjected to a regulatory fine between THB 50,000-THB 2 million.

“The Clean Air Bill also introduces economic incentives and measures to encourage behavioral changes to prevent air pollution, including clean air tax, air treatment charges, determination of rights and the transfer of rights to release exhaust air, and subsidies for activities that promote clean air,” according to a report by the Global Compliance News.

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Bangkok/ Terra/ Nature

Bangkok Eyes on Creating More Green Spaces Through ‘Pocket Parks’

Pocket Parks Header

In bustling cities like Bangkok, the lack of fresh air and public green spaces is noticeable. With the rapid climate changes causing intense heat, one thing is for sure: planting more trees can help slow it down and produce cleaner air for everyone – which is why the local government unit is aiming to create more “pocket parks” across the city.

Currently, the Bangkok Metropolitan Authority (BMA) manages about 40 parks with sports courts, walking tracks, and exercise areas. According to a report by AFP News Agency, BMA is eyeing to double that number by adding greenery to small, disused plots between tall buildings and big highways to breathe new life into the city.

Aiming to utilize even the smallest spaces in the city, these “pocket parks” are part of the government's initiative to make Bangkok greener and more liveable for residents. From trees and plants to open and breathable spaces, these small areas are designed among communities and building complexes for both relaxed and active lifestyles that primarily serve those within a 1-kilometre radius.

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