In a bid to tackle the persistent haze shrouding Bangkok’s skyline, the charismatic city governor, Chadchart Sittipunt, has rolled out an audacious no-burn campaign aimed at curbing air pollution from fine particulate matter, particularly the notorious PM2.5. This bold initiative made its grand debut yesterday in the heart of the verdant Nong Chok district. It marks a significant step forward in managing Bangkok’s sprawling 80,000 rai of rice paddies and the collective efforts of 4,000 farming households spread across ten districts, including well-known areas like Nong Chok, Khlong Sam Wa, and Lat Krabang.
Reflecting on the progress made over the last three years, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) proudly touted a series of effective measures designed to quell the rampant practice of rice field burning. Their efforts have borne tangible fruit, dramatically reducing the seared fields from a staggering 5,625 rai in 2022, to a more modest 1,582 rai in 2023, and whittling down to a mere 625 rai in the past year.
“Our aspiration is for Bangkok to emerge victorious in the battle against rice field burning by 2026,” Mr. Chadchart declared with an unwavering resolve, emphasizing the crucial role that farmers play in this endeavor. Integral to this ambitious roadmap is the enthusiastic advocacy for environmentally friendly practices such as using straw balers to transform leftover stubble into valuable resources that can be sold or reused. There’s a green revolution in the making, with a strategic increase in the application of microorganisms to hasten straw decomposition, drawing on the expertise of the Agriculture and Land Development Departments.
To bolster these ground-level efforts, the BMA is allying with the ever-vigilant Environmental Office to adopt cutting-edge technology for real-time monitoring of fire incidents. Utilizing Nasa’s state-of-the-art Fire Information for Resource Management System (Firms), they can swiftly identify potential fire hotspots. On detecting any signs of burning, district offices are immediately informed to spring into action with decisive measures.
The campaign isn’t just about stopping fires; it’s about igniting innovation among farmers. They will be equipped with practical training on composting rice straw, cultivating mushrooms on stubble, and discovering inventive alternative uses, all aimed at dissuading the temptation to burn and instead, sparking the creation of new avenues for dry straw utilization.
Interestingly, Mr. Chadchart pointed out the trifecta of PM2.5 culprits looming over Bangkok: relentless traffic-induced dust, stubbornly stagnant air that locks in pollution, and the combustion of rice fields. The scenario in Nong Chok, albeit less trafficked, is a prime example of how rice burning combined with inadequate ventilation can rival the PM2.5 levels seen in the bustling heart of Bangkok.
Once again, the city’s pollution predicament flared to worrying levels yesterday. The readings of PM2.5 teetered between 37.6 and 74.9 μg/m³, unsettlingly creeping above the safety threshold of 37.5 μg/m³. Nong Khaem emerged as the highest in the grim rankings, and if the forecasts by the Pollution Control Department are anything to go by, Greater Bangkok should brace itself for heightened pollution levels as February unfolds its earliest days.
Through these comprehensive measures, the city of Bangkok not only takes a stand against pollution but charts a path toward sustainable farming practices, ensuring cleaner air for its citizens while opening doors to new economic opportunities for its farmers. This transformation underscores the spirit of resilience and innovation as Bangkok battles its hazy demons head-on.
It’s great to see initiatives like this but will farmers really adapt to these new methods?
As a farmer, these changes aren’t just about adaptation; they have a cost. Who bears that cost?
The government should subsidize these initiatives! It’s about collective responsibility.
Agreed! But subsidies won’t fix everything. Need more education and incentives too.
I doubt technology can keep up with every small fire incident in such a vast area.
History has shown that these campaigns are mostly PR stunts. Will this be any different?
Why be so negative? Change doesn’t happen overnight but every step counts.
It’s not perfect, but at least they’re trying something rather than nothing.
What about the PM2.5 from traffic? How is that being addressed?
Traffic is a bigger problem in major cities. Electric vehicles should be promoted!
Expanding public transportation could help too. It’s a multi-faceted issue.
I am in favor of these innovations. Composting straw could be revolutionary.
Too optimistic. Remember when recycling was gonna save the planet? Same old story.
Recycling isn’t perfect, but it’s about cumulative positive impacts.
I live in Bangkok and agree, the PM2.5 levels are worrying. Action can’t come soon enough.
The long-term health effects are scary. The campaign is more urgent than most think.
Yes, especially for kids and vulnerable populations!
While the intentions are noble, where is the evidence that this will significantly lower PM2.5?
Reducing field burning alongside other measures is documented to help. It’s about synergy.
Why don’t they just make laws to stop burning completely?
Laws exist, but enforcement is complex and resources are limited. Education can be more effective.
Hats off to Chadchart for tackling this! Leading by example is key.
I still think the farmers and their families should be a major focus for education efforts. They’re the ones who directly impact the environment.
You’re right, Karen! Many of us are willing to learn if it means a healthier future for our kids.
Education is indeed fundamental, both for immediate effects and long-term change.