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Thailand's Persistent Haze Problem Defies Solutions

Despite years of efforts and policies, air pollution remains a critical issue in northern Thailand, exacerbated by traditional practices and regional complexities.

  • Chiang Mai frequently ranks as one of the world's most polluted cities during haze season, with air quality far exceeding WHO limits.
  • Traditional agricultural practices, such as controlled burns, contribute significantly to the pollution, complicating efforts to address the issue.
  • Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has highlighted Chiang Mai as a model for tackling air pollution, pushing for clean air legislation.
  • Cross-border pollution from neighboring countries like Myanmar and Laos adds to the challenge of improving air quality.
  • Technological solutions like the FireD app have been introduced to manage controlled burns, but adoption and effectiveness remain limited.
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