Thailand takes a bold step to fight plastic pollution

The Thai government has officially banned plastic waste imports, taking a critical step towards curbing pollution and safeguarding public health.

The ban was proposed by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MONRE) to improve both domestic and imported waste management. It also aims to encourage the recycling industry to better utilise existing domestic plastic waste aligning with the country’s Bio-Circular-Green (BCG) Economy model.

Around 1.1 million tonnes of plastic scraps were imported to Thailand between 2018 and 2021, according to Thai officials. Additionally, Thailand has faced illegal toxic waste smuggling alongside imported plastic waste. Unfortunately, much of this waste was not disposed of correctly. It was often burned instead of being recycled leading to improper waste disposal and leakage of toxic chemicals into the environment and nearby communities.

Inhaling toxic pollutants from burning plastic waste can lead to heart disease, respiratory disorders and neurological problems. Burning plastics also releases carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases which contributes to global warming and climate change.

Thailand’s new ban sets an inspiring precedent forcing countries to find new ways to deal with plastic waste and implement policies safeguarding both the environment and public health.

The ban comes into force at a pivotal time, as nations failed to reach an agreement on the landmark global plastic waste treaty during a meeting in Busan last year.