Bangkok: The Thai Society for Environmental Protection (TSEP) has formally submitted a letter to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, seeking parliamentary approval for the draft Clean Air Management Act. The proposed legislation is seen as crucial due to its implications on public health and the economy.
According to Thai News Agency, Police Major General Wichai Sangprapai, an advisor to the Speaker of Parliament, received the letter on behalf of Mr. Sophon Saram, Speaker of Parliament. The letter was presented by Mr. Sawit Kaewwan, President of the Thai Labor Solidarity Federation (TLSF) and the State Enterprise Workers' Federation (SEWF), along with their delegation. They requested the Parliament's approval of the draft Clean Air Management Act, B.E. ...., as per the Cabinet's request and in line with Section 147, paragraph two, of the Constitution of the Kingdom of Thailand.
The Thai Labor Solidarity Federation expressed concerns over the ongoing air pollution crisis in Thailand, particularly the alarming levels of PM2.5 particulate matter. This pollution affects public health, especially vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing conditions. The crisis not only impacts health but also affects the economy, education, tourism, and overall quality of life. The problem is attributed to various sources, including industrial emissions, vehicular pollution, construction activities, and open burning, compounded by the absence of effective legal mechanisms for pollution control and prevention.
In response, the TLSF, SEWF, labor organizations, the Clean Air Network, civil society, environmental organizations, and academics have collaboratively developed the draft Clean Air Act through public participation. The Act aims to ensure citizens' right to clean air and establish effective measures for air pollution prevention and control. It also promotes inclusive policymaking and holds polluters accountable for the social and economic impacts of air pollution.
The draft Clean Air Management Act of 2017 is a product of over five years of integrated efforts and public participation. Despite approval by the House of Representatives, its progress has stalled in the Senate due to the dissolution or expiration of parliamentary terms. The current Cabinet has requested Parliament to continue considering the draft Act, as mandated by Section 147, paragraph one, of the 2017 Constitution. The draft bill requires parliamentary approval to advance the legal mechanism protecting public health rights.
The TLSF and SEWF urge Parliament to approve the draft Clean Air Management Act B.E. ...., facilitating the legislative process and ensuring clean air for current and future generations. They also call for expedited consideration of the draft law before new Senate elections, advocating for public health, quality of life, and sustainable environmental policies.
Police Major General Wichai confirmed after receiving the letter that he will forward the document to the Speaker of Parliament for further action in the joint parliamentary session scheduled for today (May 15, 2026).