Thailand Strengthens Air Quality Efforts with Renewable Energy and Innovation

Five key agencies, including the Ministry of Energy, Pollution Control Department, Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA), Chulalongkorn University, and the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT), have announced a joint initiative to improve air quality and reduce pollution. The collaboration, titled “Breathe Our Future: Space & Sensor Synergy,” aims to integrate satellite and sensor technology to combat PM2.5 pollution and promote sustainable environmental policies.

Speaking at the event held at the EGAT 50th Anniversary Building in Nonthaburi, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Energy, Sompop Pattanariyangkul, emphasized that Thailand’s Energy Transition policy is a key driver in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and PM2.5 levels. The Ministry is advancing renewable energy solutions, electric vehicle (EV) adoption, cleaner fuels, and biomass energy to minimize environmental impact. Additionally, it is supporting Sensor for ALL, an initiative designed to track air pollution sources and inform sustainable policy decisions.

Priyaporn Suwannaket, Director-General of the Pollution Control Department, underscored the importance of preventing pollution at its source while leveraging technological advancements. The department currently operates 100 air quality monitoring stations across 69 provinces, with plans to expand coverage nationwide by 2026. This data will be crucial in pinpointing dust sources and improving public awareness.

Kanda Sri Limpakom, Deputy Director of GISTDA, highlighted the role of space technology in air quality management. Satellite data combined with AI forecasting tools, such as the “Check Dust” application, allows authorities to monitor pollution levels in real time and develop proactive measures. GISTDA aims to integrate satellite and ground-level air quality data for more precise pollution source identification.

Representing the academic sector, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Wittaya Wannasuphoprasit, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering at Chulalongkorn University, reiterated the university’s commitment to sustainability through its green campus initiative. The university has been developing Sensor for ALL technology for the past seven years, installing air quality sensors in key locations and ensuring data accuracy through collaborative efforts with national partners.

EGAT Governor, Thepparat Theppitak, reinforced EGAT’s dedication to clean energy solutions and emissions control. The agency is deploying high-efficiency power generation technologies, piloting electric vehicle programs, promoting energy-efficient appliances (No. 5 label), and investing in air purification systems such as City Tree. Additionally, EGAT is working on forest fire and smog prevention initiatives to address Thailand’s persistent air pollution challenges.

Despite ongoing efforts, data collected over the past three years indicates that PM2.5 pollution remains a major challenge. The newly signed cooperation agreement between the five agencies seeks to integrate renewable energy strategies with advanced pollution monitoring to drive more effective air quality policies at both local and national levels.

This initiative represents a significant step towards cleaner air, better health, and a stronger commitment to sustainable energy in Thailand.