Thailand poised to pass first climate change law to tackle worsening disasters

Thailand is preparing to pass its first-ever climate change legislation, which aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and strengthen the country's ability to adapt to environmental impacts. The "Climate Change Act" is currently being reviewed by over 30 government agencies before being submitted to the Cabinet for approval.

Key Features and Goals of the Bill
Climate Fund: The legislation will establish a "Climate Fund" to finance projects that help the country transition to a more sustainable, low-carbon future. This fund is expected to support adaptation efforts and help Thailand access international climate financing.

Climate-Related Impacts: Dr. Phirun Saiyasitpanich, Director-General of Thailand’s Department of Climate Change and Environment, emphasized the urgency of the bill by highlighting the increasing frequency of natural disasters, such as recent floods in northern Thailand that caused an estimated loss of more than 5 billion baht ($160 million) to the tourism sector.

High-Risk Sectors: The bill's adaptation plans will focus on six key sectors that are particularly vulnerable to climate change:

Agriculture

Water management

Tourism

Public health

Natural resource management

Human settlements

Regional Context: The article also notes that the ASEAN region as a whole needs significant funding—estimated at about $422 million—to achieve its climate goals.