PHUKET, Thailand – Phuket Governor Nirat Pongsitthaworn has urged the private sector to urgently prioritize reducing waste at its source. During a strategic meeting on February 15, 2026, the Governor reviewed the current waste situation and called for stronger implementation of the province’s sustainability policies.
The provincial directive aims to reduce organic waste and enforce strict sorting protocols. Key measures include promoting eco-friendly packaging, banning foam containers, and regularly inspecting garbage truck efficiency. The province also supports expanding the Local Environment Volunteer (LEV) network and adopting innovative small-scale waste-disposal technologies.
The Sustainable Tourism Development Foundation proposed targeted management of coconut waste, recommending dedicated separation and value-added processing. Approaches include converting coconut waste into biochar and related products. The Foundation also suggested using robotic technology for waste collection to reduce labor demands.
Local authorities emphasized community participation in managing wastewater and solid waste, strengthening Local Environmental Volunteer networks, and promoting natural resource conservation in their areas.
This initiative demonstrates Phuket’s coordinated efforts to address waste challenges and support sustainable tourism and environmental protection. (NNT)
