Thailand Pushes for Zero-Waste Schools and Communities to Combat Climate Change
Mr. Pawit Ketsawong, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Climate Change and Environment, stated that Thailand ranks as the 9th most vulnerable country to climate change impacts worldwide. The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, through the Department of Climate Change and Environment, is accelerating efforts across all sectors to enhance climate change mitigation measures. The goal is for Thailand to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050 and net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2065.
The department has implemented the Zero-Waste Schools and Zero-Waste Communities Project, promoting the concept of Zero Waste through the 3Rs principle (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle). The initiative fosters cooperation among communities, schools, and local government organizations to establish a comprehensive waste management system from the source to the final disposal stage. Currently, there are 42 Zero-Waste Community Learning Centers and 20 Zero-Waste School Learning Centers nationwide. Additionally, efforts are being made to expand waste management practices at the source to more communities and schools, preparing them to evolve into learning centers for a future low-carbon society.
Mr. Phonphrom Na-S. Wikitset, Advisor to the Governor of Bangkok, emphasized that Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) prioritizes waste management issues. The city has continuously implemented policies to reduce and separate waste at the source, encouraging communities, organizations, and businesses to adopt Zero-Waste principles. The district offices have also been promoting waste reduction and segregation at the point of origin for better utilization. In 2024, BMA aims to reduce waste by 200 tons per day and encourage greater public participation in waste reduction initiatives.
CR: Khaosod News
