Uttaradit: Uttaradit Province integrates all sectors to launch a stop burning operation after PM 2.5 exceeds the standard. Violators will be fined or imprisoned. The idea of using leaf containers to reduce burning and reduce smog and generate income for the community comes up. Mr. Siriwat Bupphacharoen, Governor of Uttaradit Province, presided over the launch of the campaign parade 'Stop Burning, No Burning' at the Sirikit Dam, Uttaradit Province, and coordinated with the Uttaradit Provincial Police 'You burn, we catch'. If there is a violation or neglect, there is a penalty of imprisonment of 1-20 years and a fine of 5,000-2 million baht. He mobilized officers and volunteers, soldiers, and police to help create a forest fire prevention line in the risky forest areas of Uttaradit Province, which are mostly mountainous and highlands. There are 57.55 percent forest areas and are one of the areas with PM 2.5 smog problems exceeding the standard.
According to Thai News Agency, the governor of Uttaradit integrated all sectors to stop burning, bring in innovations to help, such as using drones to detect heat (Fire Hawk) and control the spread in the case of forest fires. Emphasize that people see the value and generate income from leaves by bringing prototypes from the Lampang Forest Fire Control Promotion Center to set up a point to publicize the benefits of leaves, especially teak leaves, tong tung leaves, bamboo sheaths, and various leaves, both dry and fresh, to make containers, cups, and plates to reduce burning, reduce smog, and reduce the amount of plastic used. Importantly, using natural materials that are truly useful and also generate income for the community. Initially, each leaf will be sold for 3 baht.
The process of making these containers involves collecting leaves, washing them clean, wiping them with a cloth, and applying water mixed with tapioca flour or glutinous rice flour to help bind them. The leaves are then shaped according to the mold with heat for about 90 seconds, taken out, decorated, and ready to be used. These containers leave no residue and are truly natural, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional materials.