Developing National Policies and Institutional Arrangements for Preventing and Rehabilitating Soil Contamination in Thailand |
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In 2008, Thailand generated over 1.8 million tons of hazardous waste, and imported or produced nearly 30 million tons of hazardous chemicals. |
After decades of unprecedented industrial growth, Thailand is facing a worsening crisis in addressing the health and environmental impacts of improper management of hazardous waste and hazardous substances. In 2008, Thailand generated over 1.8 million tons of hazardous waste, and imported or produced nearly 30 million tons of hazardous chemicals. The Department of Public Health reported over 1,600 cases of patients seeking treatment for exposure hazardous substances and hazardous waste. According to the Pollution Control Department (PCD), only one of several agencies dealing with hazardous waste, there were 29 reported accidents related to improper handling and illegal dumping. Key challenges for hazardous waste management include: lack of a policy framework; ineffective coordination among regulatory agencies; and an inadequate management systems. |
Initiative
To create a draft policy framework, AECEN established a twinning partnership between Thailand’s PCD and Ministry of Environment Japan (MOEJ). With facilitation support from Japan’s Institute for Global Environmental Strategies (IGES), PCD led a national effort to establish a new framework for preventing soil contamination and rehabilitating contaminated land. PCD and IGES worked closely to coordinate a series of technical exchanges and consultative meetings that engaged a broad range of experts and stakeholders from government and the private sector. PCD and IGES also prepared a synthesis report providing analysis and recommendations on soil contamination management.
Results
Based on experience and good practices from Japan, Thailand has prepared a draft policy framework on soil contamination with buy-in from a range of stakeholders. In 2010, PCD and IGES will continue cooperation in preparing a draft national soil contamination law, and in developing a capacity building program for PCD officers that will include a comprehensive training curriculum on soil contamination investigation, risk assessment and remediation.