Bangkok: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Narumon Pinyosinwat, the Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, has called on farmers to cease burning agricultural materials as part of efforts to address the PM2.5 dust issue affecting the agricultural sector. The Minister has tasked relevant agencies with promoting non-burning agricultural practices, emphasizing the benefits of such methods in reducing production costs and enhancing income.
According to Thai News Agency, the Ministry of Agriculture has already witnessed positive cooperation from farmers following the introduction of measures encouraging the use of microorganisms to decompose stubble. This practice not only addresses pollution concerns but also contributes to soil improvement, thereby reducing the need for fertilizers and subsequently increasing rice yields.
The Department of Agricultural Extension, the Rice Department, and other agencies have been mobilized to provide farmers with the necessary knowledge and guidance on managing agricultural materials without resorting to burning. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to diminish air pollution and foster sustainable farming practices.
To further combat the PM2.5 dust problem, the Ministry has implemented a directive prohibiting burning across all agricultural areas from January 17 to May 31, 2025. Farmers who disregard this ban and are found to have engaged in burning during this period risk being excluded from government assistance programs for two years. This measure aims to provide a concrete solution to reduce air pollution stemming from agricultural activities.