Polluters will pay under new law
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Cabinet yesterday gave the go-ahead to a five-year pollution management plan, which will implement the polluters-pay concept.
“The plan will be launched from this year to 2016,” Anusorn Iamsa-ard said in his capacity as acting government spokesman, adding that all relevant authorities are required to develop their work schemes in line with this framework.
As per the plan, anybody polluting the environment will have to pay. Economic and social measures will be used to encourage manufacturers to cut down on contamination and use an environmentally friendly manufacturing process as well as encourage individuals to embrace green habits.
The Natural Resources and Environment Ministry proposed the scheme.
“The ultimate goal is to provide an ecologically balanced environment that is good for people’s health,” Anusorn said.
The plan also recommends that the first priority be given to areas that have serious environmental problems, such as bad quality of water and severe smog .
Local administrative bodies will need to promote the proper disposal of waste, especially toxic waste created by entrepreneurs. They also need to be ready to respond efficiently to any emergencies such as chemical leaks.
“Laws, regulations and authorities’ work plans will be improved to ensure they are all heading in the same direction and encourage participation by all parties involved,” Anusorn said. He added that in line with the plan, authorities would be launching campaigns to encourage all stakeholders to help tackle and prevent pollution.
