Thailand Launches Carbon Awareness Initiative Ahead of Carbon Tax Implementation

In a bid to boost public awareness of carbon emissions and the upcoming carbon tax, the Thai government has partnered with Chulalongkorn University and two leading oil companies, PTT and Bangchak Petroleum. The initiative aims to provide consumers with real-time data on carbon emissions during fuel purchases, supporting the country’s energy transition goals.

Under the new program, when consumers refuel at PTT gas stations, screens will display the carbon emissions associated with each transaction. Meanwhile, Bangchak Petroleum will assist members of its “Green Miles” program through a mobile app, tracking carbon reductions achieved by using eco-friendly fuels and showing the equivalent number of trees planted.

The initiative also includes a research component led by Chulalongkorn University’s Faculty of Economics. Starting in March and running through May, the study will analyze the behavior of 3,500 consumers to assess the impact of the carbon awareness campaign. The findings will inform future policy development and help refine strategies for reducing carbon emissions.

Gloyta Nathalang, Senior Executive Vice President of Sustainability Management and Corporate Communications at Bangchak and Chair of the Thailand Carbon Market Club (TCMC), highlighted the importance of the initiative. She stated that TCMC will use multiple channels to promote the carbon tax and the goals of the agreement, further raising public awareness of carbon-related issues.

The carbon tax system, approved by the Thai Cabinet two weeks ago, is currently under final review by the Council of State, part of the Prime Minister’s office. Expected to take effect after an official announcement in February, the tax will be set at 200 baht per ton of carbon (approximately 5.9 USD). It will be integrated into the existing petroleum tax structure, ensuring no immediate impact on retail fuel prices for consumers.

This collaborative effort marks a significant step in Thailand’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and fostering a more sustainable energy future. By making carbon data visible and actionable, the initiative aims to empower consumers and drive meaningful progress toward the country’s climate goals.