BANGKOK, Thailand – Thailand is entering its annual haze season, with fine particulate matter (PM2.5) expected to rise across several regions between 6–13 December, according to the Pollution Control Department (PCD). Authorities are tightening controls on sugarcane burning and biomass factories to curb worsening air quality.
PCD Director-General Surin Warakitthamrong stated that the Air Pollution Resolution Communication Center is monitoring PM2.5 levels closely as concentrations begin trending upward—particularly in Bangkok and its metropolitan areas, the Northeast, and the East.
Seven-Day Outlook (7–13 Dec 2025):
Bangkok Metropolitan Region: PM2.5 levels expected to increase; some areas may exceed standards.
Northeast & East: Continuous upward trend in dust levels.
North: Expected decline around 9–10 December, though some hotspots remain.
South: Air quality remains generally good.
As of 7:00 AM on 6 December, national air quality remained mostly within acceptable standards. However, several locations in the North—especially Chiang Mai and Sukhothai—recorded PM2.5 levels above the national threshold, with readings up to 58.2 µg/m³.
To mitigate pollution during the year-end and early-year haze period, the department has accelerated measures focused on major emission sources, especially sugarcane mills and biomass power plants. Key actions include:
Limiting burnt sugarcane intake to no more than 15% of total supply
Encouraging mills to purchase 10–30% of sugarcane leaves as biomass fuel
Inspecting air pollution control systems and runoff management
Strict enforcement of EIA compliance
Installing real-time CEMs (Continuous Emission Monitoring Systems) at factories
Promoting CSR activities in partnership with local communities
The department aims to complete inspections of 59 sugar mills and biomass plants nationwide by mid-December to reduce health risks during peak haze season.
Vulnerable groups—including children, the elderly, pregnant women, and people with respiratory conditions—are urged to monitor air quality closely and wear masks if outdoor exposure is unavoidable. Real-time updates are available via:
AirBKK.com
Air4Thai and AirBKK mobile apps
LINE ALERT & Cell Broadcast notifications
PCD social media channels (TNA)
