Govt introduces economic measures to curb agricultural burning and reduce PM2.5 pollution

Source: Nation Thailand Publication Date: October 24, 2025 URL: https://www.nationthailand.com/news/40057244

The Thai government has announced comprehensive economic measures to curb agricultural burning practices that significantly contribute to PM2.5 pollution, with a particular focus on the sugarcane industry and other agricultural sectors.

Policy Framework

The initiative addresses the persistent problem of agricultural burning, which accounts for a substantial portion of PM2.5 pollution during certain seasons. The government recognizes that traditional burning practices, while once considered efficient for land preparation, now pose significant environmental and health risks.

Key Objectives

• Reduce agricultural burning by 50% within 3 years
• Lower PM2.5 pollution levels in affected areas
• Promote sustainable agricultural waste management
• Create economic incentives for eco-friendly practices

Economic Measures Implementation

Sugarcane Industry Regulations

The Ministry of Industry has established strict guidelines for sugarcane burning:

• Burnt Sugarcane Limit: No more than 15% of total sugarcane production can be burnt during the harvesting season
• Progressive Reduction: Annual targets to reduce burnt sugarcane percentage
• Compliance Monitoring: Regular inspections and reporting requirements
• Penalty System: Fines for mills exceeding burning limits

Incentive Programs

The government offers several economic incentives for mills adopting alternative practices:

• Tax Incentives: Reduced corporate taxes for mills meeting sustainability targets
• Investment Grants: Funding for mechanized harvesting equipment
• Premium Pricing: Higher guaranteed prices for unburnt sugarcane
• Export Bonuses: Additional incentives for mills exporting sustainable products

Alternative Waste Management Solutions

Industrial Fuel Utilization

The initiative promotes the use of agricultural waste as industrial fuel:

• Sugarcane Leaves: Collection and processing for power plant fuel
• Rice Straw: Development of biomass energy production facilities
• Corn Residues: Integration into industrial heating systems
• Infrastructure Investment: Government support for waste collection and processing facilities

Technology Adoption

• Mechanized Harvesting: Subsidies for combine harvesters and modern equipment
• Biomass Processing: Grants for pelletizing and briquetting facilities
• Waste-to-Energy: Investment in small-scale power generation from agricultural waste
• Smart Monitoring: Digital tracking systems for compliance and efficiency

Inter-Ministerial Coordination

Implementation Framework

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MNRE), working alongside the Ministry of Industry and other agencies, has established a coordinated approach:

• Joint Task Force: Cross-ministry coordination for policy implementation
• Regional Action Plans: Province-specific strategies based on local conditions
• Public-Private Partnerships: Collaboration with industry associations and environmental groups
• Research Collaboration: Partnerships with universities for technology development

Monitoring and Enforcement

• Satellite Monitoring: Use of satellite imagery to detect burning activities
• Ground Inspections: Regular field visits and compliance checks
• Data Analytics: Real-time monitoring and predictive analytics
• Community Reporting: Public participation in monitoring efforts

Economic Impact Analysis

Industry Benefits

• Cost Savings: Reduced dependency on chemical fertilizers and pesticides
• Market Premiums: Higher prices for sustainable agricultural products
• Export Advantages: Improved market access to environmentally conscious buyers
• Long-term Sustainability: Enhanced soil health and productivity

Environmental Outcomes

• Air Quality Improvement: Significant reduction in PM2.5 pollution levels
• Soil Health: Better soil structure and reduced erosion
• Water Conservation: Improved water retention and reduced runoff
• Biodiversity: Enhanced habitats for beneficial insects and wildlife

Challenges and Mitigation

Implementation Barriers

• Cost Concerns: Initial investment required for new equipment and processes
• Technical Training: Need for farmer and mill operator training
• Supply Chain Changes: Adaptation of logistics and processing systems
• Market Uncertainty: Ensuring fair pricing for sustainable products

Support Mechanisms

• Financial Aid: Government subsidies and low-interest loans
• Technical Assistance: Training programs and expert consultation
• Market Development: Promotion of sustainable products domestically and internationally
• Insurance Programs: Risk mitigation for adopting new practices

Regional Implementation

Priority Areas

• Central Thailand: Major sugarcane and rice production regions
• Northeastern Thailand: Rice farming and cassava production areas
• Northern Thailand: Highland agriculture and specialty crops
• Southern Thailand: Rubber plantations and fruit orchards

Phased Approach

• Pilot Phase: Selected provinces implementing comprehensive programs
• Scale-up Phase: Successful models expanded to additional regions
• Full Implementation: Nationwide adoption within 3-5 years
• Continuous Monitoring: Regular assessment and program adjustments

International Cooperation

Global Partnerships

• Technology Transfer: Collaboration with international environmental organizations
• Best Practices: Learning from successful programs in other countries
• Funding Opportunities: Access to international climate finance
• Knowledge Exchange: Participation in global sustainability forums

Export Market Benefits

• Certification Programs: International recognition for sustainable practices
• Premium Pricing: Higher prices in environmentally conscious markets
• Trade Agreements: Inclusion in sustainability-focused trade deals
• Brand Enhancement: Improved Thailand agricultural brand globally

Future Outlook

Long-term Vision

• Zero Burning Goal: Complete elimination of agricultural burning practices
• Circular Economy: Full utilization of agricultural waste in various industries
• Climate Resilience: Enhanced adaptation to climate change impacts
• Sustainable Agriculture: Model for environmentally friendly farming practices

Policy Evolution

• Regular Review: Annual assessment and policy adjustments
• Technology Integration: Incorporation of emerging environmental technologies
• Stakeholder Engagement: Continuous dialogue with industry and communities
• International Leadership: Thailand as a regional leader in sustainable agriculture

These comprehensive economic measures represent a significant step toward addressing Thailand’s PM2.5 pollution crisis while promoting sustainable agricultural practices that benefit farmers, the environment, and public health.