Strengthening Thailand’s Climate Change Law: Why Timely Enhancements Are Essential Before Implementation

Thailand is on the brink of introducing its first Climate Change Act. This is a significant step, especially since the government has often overlooked climate issues and even taken legal action against environmental activists. While this Act is a start, it needs stronger legislation and well-supported institutions to have a real impact.

Climate change, mainly from human-generated greenhouse gases, has led to severe environmental damage in Thailand. The country faces intense droughts, flooding, and a loss of biodiversity, all of which are harming agricultural productivity. This situation threatens farmers’ livelihoods and increases poverty and food insecurity in rural areas. According to the Global Climate Risk Index, Thailand was ranked the 9th most affected country by climate-related disasters in 2021.

Public concerns about climate change have risen significantly, thanks to media coverage and grassroots activism. In response, the Thai government created a Climate Change Master Plan for 2015-2050, acknowledging the pressure from citizens.

However, the effectiveness of Thailand’s climate strategies has been hampered by institutional challenges and a fragmented political landscape. Bureaucratic inefficiencies and resistance from powerful industries with vested interests pose additional obstacles to genuine climate action. Despite promises from political parties to address climate issues, many initiatives remain unimplemented. Interestingly, the government still plans to rely on coal, a major contributor to CO2 emissions, until 2036.

Since taking office in May 2023, the Pheu Thai-led government has sparked renewed interest in climate reforms. Discussions about the Climate Change Act are underway, aiming to create effective mechanisms for tackling climate change. Various proposals have been raised, yet flaws remain that could compromise the Act’s execution.

One major proposal is the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), inspired by a similar European Union model. This would impose a carbon price on imported goods exceeding certain emissions thresholds. Importers would need to report their emissions and purchase carbon adjustment certificates. While this could help regulate emissions, critics worry about the government’s ability to enforce the law effectively.

The proposed Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) and a carbon tax aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. However, the government has not provided enough details on how these measures would impact businesses or emissions comprehensively. Currently, renewable energy accounts for only 7.1% of Thailand’s energy use, with fossil fuels dominating at 70%—a shift to renewables poses significant challenges.

The Act also seeks to create a Climate Fund to encourage innovation and assist in climate adaptation. Yet, concerns exist about bureaucratic hurdles that could hinder the fund’s creation.

The legislative process for this Climate Change Act is expected to unfold over the next few years, possibly concluding in 2026, with implementation beginning in 2027. The bill will need substantial revisions to clarify climate targets, encourage renewable energy use, enforce penalties, expand the Climate Fund, and improve civil society oversight.

In summary, while Thailand’s Climate Change Act is a necessary step forward, it requires significant enhancements to be effective. The public’s demand for stronger climate action must continue to influence government policies to ensure that this legislation fulfills its intended purpose.

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