Chiang mai: The Ministry of Agriculture is taking steps to reduce PM 2.5 dust by promoting the practice of plowing crop residues back into the soil as a sustainable method to restore the environment.
According to Thai News Agency, the Ministry is pushing forward with its campaign in Chiang Mai, focusing on reducing particulate matter, revitalizing Thai soil, and advancing sustainable agriculture free from burning. Through the Department of Land Development, the Ministry is addressing PM 2.5 particulate matter and greenhouse gas emissions with the "Plowing Crop Residues Into the Soil for Sustainable Development and Environmental Restoration" campaign set for 2026. This initiative encourages farmers to shift from burning agricultural waste to plowing it back into the soil, which aims to restore soil resources, reduce smog, and improve the quality of life for both farmers and the general public.
Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, Mr. Nares Thamrongtipayakun, presided over the campaign's opening ceremony at Ban Huai Nam Dib in Chiang Mai Province. The event, organized by the Department of Land Development, was attended by over 1,000 people, including farmers and government officials. The campaign seeks to educate farmers on non-burning agricultural practices, improve soil quality, and mitigate global warming effects.
The government has recognized air pollution as a national issue, implementing the Second Air Pollution Control Action Plan (2025-2027) to address it. Although improvements have been seen in PM 2.5 levels, certain areas require more attention. The Ministry designates reducing agricultural burning as crucial to combating PM 2.5 pollution. By promoting the plowing of crop residues, the Ministry aims to support greenhouse gas reduction goals and achieve net-zero carbon emissions, benefiting the environment, health, economy, and tourism.
Dr. Sumitra Wattana, Director-General of the Department of Land Development, emphasized the project's alignment with forest fire and pollution control measures. The campaign demonstrates the benefits of non-burning agriculture through demonstration plots, preserving soil structure, increasing fertility, and improving water retention. By avoiding burning, essential soil nutrients valued at approximately 900 baht per rai are preserved, reducing fertilizer costs for farmers. The project includes 12 provinces with burning issues, with Chiang Mai serving as the main venue for the campaign.