Thailand's Air Crisis PM2 5 Pollution Hits Dangerous Highs, Putting Lives at Risk

"Thailand's Air Crisis: PM2.5 Pollution Hits Dangerous Highs, Putting Lives at Risk"
As Thailand welcomes 2025, its skies remain choked with hazardous PM2.5 pollution, threatening the health of millions.
The fine dust particles, measuring less than 2.5 micrometers, infiltrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream, wreaking havoc on the body. Long-term exposure is linked to chronic diseases such as heart and lung conditions, and its effects are especially harmful to children, causing lung and growth issues. From October 2023 to December 2024, over a million Thais sought medical treatment for illnesses tied to PM2.5 exposure, including asthma, heart attacks, and severe respiratory problems, according to the Disease Control Department. "Broken Promises and Smoggy Realities"
Despite the passage of the Clean Air Bill’s first reading last year, tangible progress remains elusive. Environmental expert Sonthi Kochawat expressed his frustration, blaming unchecked sugarcane field burnings, factory emissions, and vehicle exhaust for the unrelenting crisis.
The Industry Ministry banned sugar mills from purchasing charred sugarcane in the 2023-2024 season, but nearly 30% of sugarcane processed was still burned. Shockingly, around 400,000 rai of farmland went up in flames, releasing 1,000 tons of PM2.5 into the air.