Thailand’s National Environment Board (NEB) has recently approved two major Pollution Control Zone designations to tackle PM2.5 and haze more effectively:

 Bangkok – Agencies now have stronger powers to enforce urgent and systematic measures against seasonal air pollution, expected to protect health, improve livability, and generate over USD 550 million annually in eco-economic value.

 Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Lamphun, and Mae Hong Son – These northern provinces will receive targeted measures against recurring haze from forest fires, open burning, and transport emissions, while balancing health protection with economic and tourism benefits.

 NEB also highlighted the need for collaboration between central agencies, local authorities, and communities—through stricter burning controls, promotion of clean fuels, expanded air-quality monitoring, and ongoing awareness campaigns.

 These steps mark an important milestone in Thailand’s integrated efforts to protect public health, support sustainable development, and build environmental confidence both in Bangkok and the North.